GCAA Announces Registration Of 23,960 Drones In The UAE With New Operational Guidelines

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has reported that 23,960 drones are now registered in the UAE. Following the lifting of the personal drone ban, 93 companies and 270 individuals have registered through the UAE Drones Unified Platform. This announcement was made at a press conference organised by the GCAA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and Abu Dhabi's Integrated Transport Center.

The UAE Drones Unified Platform is designed to streamline drone registration and regulation. It provides users with essential information on operational requirements and ensures compliance with safety laws. The platform serves as a central hub, simplifying processes by involving all relevant authorities. It supports the development of the UAV sector and aligns with national goals like "We are the UAE 2031" and UAE Centennial 2071.

Registration on this platform requires a digital identity. Users must review conditions, follow registration steps, and ensure flying areas are permitted. Additionally, drones must have a remote identification system. The platform aims to enhance user experience while ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

Operational guidelines were detailed at the press conference: submit operation requests via the platform, adhere to designated flight areas, fly below 400 feet (120 meters), maintain visual line-of-sight during daylight, avoid gatherings, respect privacy, stay clear of airports, and prepare UAVs for each flight. These measures ensure safe drone operations.

Colonel Jamal Al Hosani from the Ministry of Interior highlighted that individual drone use will be allowed from January 7, 2025. This decision is part of efforts to improve life quality under the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. He stressed following guidelines to protect lives and property while enhancing community security.

Eng Aqeel Al Zarouni from GCAA emphasised that users should adhere to established guidelines for responsible technology use. The GCAA is committed to creating a safe environment for this sector's growth. Users can access all conditions and registration steps through the UAE Drones application.

For inquiries about registration or airspace issues, users can contact [email protected] or [email protected] respectively. Eng Hana Mohamed Al Kokhardi from Abu Dhabi's Integrated Transport Center also participated in detailing these operational requirements during the press conference.

The collaborative effort between GCAA and its partners aims to streamline procedures in line with safety regulations both nationally and internationally. This initiative underscores their dedication to fostering an advanced environment for UAV operations in the UAE.

This comprehensive approach ensures that drone operations contribute positively towards achieving strategic national objectives while prioritising public safety and security within communities across the country.

With inputs from WAM