No-Fly Zones for Drones in the UAE: Your Comprehensive Guide to Safe and Legal Flying

Drone use in the UAE is popular but strictly regulated to ensure public and national security. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) sets federal laws, while the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) enforces additional rules in Dubai. The primary legislation is Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2022.

All drone services, including registration and permits, have been centralized onto a single national platform. This platform is now the only official gateway for all legal drone operations in the country.

Flight Zone Map

Every pilot must use the official "My Drone Hub" app before each flight to check for permitted and prohibited zones. This app provides mandatory, real-time airspace updates. The map uses a color-coded system to indicate flight restrictions.

Interpreting the Map Colors

• Green Zones: Designated flying areas, primarily for hobbyists with drones under 5 kg. Standard flight rules apply.

• Red Zones: No flying without a special permit from GCAA/DCAA. These cover sensitive sites like airports and government buildings.

• Restricted Zones (Beige/Orange): Require prior permission from the GCAA to fly. Orange zones may be for commercial use only with DCAA approval.

• Prohibited Zones (Pink): All flying and filming are strictly forbidden with no exceptions.

• Yellow Zones: Primarily for flight training; requires a permit.

• Blue Zones (Authorization Zones): Typically around airports, requiring official approval and possibly an unlock code from the manufacturer.

List of Generally Prohibited Areas

Even within a green zone, flying is always forbidden in the following areas:

• Near Airports: A strict 5-kilometer no-fly radius around any airport, airstrip, or helipad.

• Residential & Private Property: Flying over homes and private property is prohibited to protect privacy.

• Sensitive Sites: Government buildings, military installations, and critical infrastructure are off-limits.

• Public Gatherings: Avoid flying over crowds, events, public parks, and beaches. Dubai specifically bans drones in all public parks.

Before You Fly: Basic Requirements and Licensing

Owning a drone does not grant the right to fly. The UAE requires mandatory registration and training to ensure all pilots are identifiable, educated, and accountable.

Steps to Register a Drone

The registration process is centralized on the national drone platform. It begins with obtaining a "Product Status Statement" from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. Required documents vary by user type:

Basic Flight Rules to Follow

All pilots must adhere to these rules on every flight:

• Altitude: Maximum 400 feet (120 meters) above ground.

• Line of Sight: Always keep the drone within your direct visual sight.

• Timing and Weather: Fly only during daylight hours and in good weather.

• Privacy: Do not photograph people or private property without explicit consent. Camera use is restricted to approved flying zones.

• Payload: Drones cannot be equipped to drop or carry objects.

• Pre-Flight Check: Inspect the drone for safety and airworthiness before each flight.

• Incident Reporting: Immediately report any accidents or loss of control to the GCAA.

Penalties and Violations

Violating drone laws is a serious crime with severe penalties, including large fines and imprisonment, as detailed in Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2022.

Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2022.

Causing damage or using a drone in another crime are aggravating factors. Courts can also revoke licenses and confiscate equipment.

Important Note for Drone Users in Dubai

Crucial Warning for Drone Users in Dubai

Despite the federal government lifting the ban on recreational drones in January 2025, this change does not apply to Dubai. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has confirmed that recreational and hobbyist drone use remains suspended in Dubai until further notice.

Flying a drone for recreational purposes in Dubai is illegal and will result in severe penalties. Always check the specific rules for each emirate before flying.