UAE to Lift Drone Restrictions with Launch of National Drone Platform

The UAE Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), and other stakeholders, has announced a phased lifting of restrictions on drone operations, effective 25th November 2024. This initiative prioritizes airspace safety, societal protection, and property security.

During a press conference at the Abu Dhabi Police College, officials unveiled a unified national platform designed to streamline drone registration, regulate usage, and provide operational clarity. Colonel Jamal Al Hosani, Director of the Air Support Department at the Ministry of Interior, and Eng. Ammar Al Mazrouei from the GCAA highlighted the platform’s role in simplifying processes by consolidating all procedures under one system.

Initially, the platform will serve government entities and companies, facilitating operations like research, testing, and exhibitions. Future phases will extend services to amateur operators, with timelines to be announced. Operators must comply with licensing requirements via the UAE Drones app or website (https://drones.gov.ae). Drones must also feature a remote identification broadcast system.

For registration support, users can contact drones@gcaa.gov.ae, while airspace permissions and technical queries can be addressed via airspaceapprovals@gcaa.gov.ae and UAEDrones@eand.com. Incident reports can be submitted through the UAE Drones platform to enhance safety and security.

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic goals, including “We the Emirates 2031” and the UAE Centennial 2071, fostering innovation and economic growth across drone-enabled industries.

News Source: Emirates News Agency