Drone Laws in United Arab Emirates
Currently no. Under the unified GCAA framework relaunched in January 2025, drone operation is limited to UAE citizens and residents. Tourists are not permitted in the current phase, and undeclared drones may be held at customs. Assume you cannot fly as a visitor.
The UAE regulates drones through the GCAA under a unified framework that, in its current phase, limits operation to citizens and residents, so visitors cannot fly.
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Drone rules change frequently and vary by location. Always confirm the current rules with the national aviation authority (linked below) before you fly. Last reviewed: July 2026.
Aviation authority
General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), plus Dubai (DCAA) and Abu Dhabi at emirate levelThe rules
- Registration
- Mandatory via the unified UAE Drone platform (UAE Pass, training certificates); GCAA permits valid 2 years for drones ≤5kg. Currently residents/citizens only.
- Remote ID
- Live real-time tracking/feed capability is required by GCAA.
- Maximum altitude
- 400 ft (~122 m).
- Line of sight
- VLOS and daylight only; no night ops without special approval; BVLOS not available to general operators.
- No-fly and distance rules
- No flying over crowds, near airports, or over government/military/critical-infrastructure sites; extensive prohibited zones over Dubai and Abu Dhabi and landmarks. Check the GCAA no-fly-zone map.
- Commercial and paid work
- GCAA/emirate commercial registration plus flight-specific permits (single-flight, aerial-filming) and accredited training; Dubai and Abu Dhabi require their own clearance.
- Notable restrictions
- Dense no-fly coverage over both major cities; strict security enforcement.
- Penalties
- Substantial fines, confiscation and possible imprisonment for unauthorised use, especially near airports or restricted sites.
Would rather not deal with the paperwork? Hire a local, insured drone pilot through Terasor.
Find a local drone pilotOfficial sources
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Drone rules change frequently and vary by location. Always confirm the current rules with the national aviation authority (linked below) before you fly. Last reviewed: July 2026.