Dubai Media Council Partners With DCAA To Enhance Drone Filming Operations In Dubai

The Dubai Media Council (DMC) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance media operations using drones. This agreement, witnessed by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to streamline drone-based media filming in Dubai. The initiative, known as ‘Dubai From the Sky,’ seeks to simplify processes and speed up permit issuance for timely media coverage.

The MoU was signed by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of DMC, and Mohammed Abdullah Lengawi, Director-General of DCAA. Al Marri expressed gratitude to the DCAA for its cooperation, emphasising the importance of empowering media professionals to produce high-quality content. She noted that the media plays a vital role in shaping society and highlighted the council's commitment to supporting media professionals with necessary tools.

Al Marri also pointed out that rapid technological advancements necessitate skilled professionals who can leverage new media tools. She emphasised the creative potential of drone photography and reiterated the council’s dedication to fostering innovation and enhancing content quality through such resources. The partnership aims to equip media professionals with innovative tools for impactful storytelling.

Mohammed Abdullah Lengawi stated that this MoU reflects DCAA’s commitment to supporting key sectors like media. He stressed the importance of creating a secure environment for using advanced technologies such as drone photography. This initiative is seen as crucial for driving creativity and innovation in content production while ensuring airspace safety.

The collaboration includes training programmes accredited by DCAA for drone operators in the media sector. These programmes will cover technical and safety aspects, ensuring that drone operations do not interfere with Dubai's airspace. Upon completion, selected trainees nominated by DMC will receive professional licences according to Authority standards.

Lengawi highlighted that partnerships are essential for enhancing media content in an evolving environment. He mentioned that the MoU prioritises training media professionals in safe drone operation and simplifying licensing procedures. The goal is to achieve excellence in media photography while safeguarding Dubai's airspace.

Identifying Suitable Filming Locations

Both parties will collaborate to identify suitable locations for aerial filming with drones, specifying permissible altitudes for each area to maintain air traffic safety in Dubai. The MoU outlines working mechanisms to ensure effective collaboration and achievement of shared goals.

This agreement underscores efforts by DMC and DCAA to strengthen their partnership and coordinate procedures for media-related drone operations. It aligns with DCAA’s role in regulating civil aviation and enhancing air transport safety and governance in the emirate.

With inputs from WAM