The Ministry of Interior has announced that starting January 7, 2025, individuals in six of the seven emirates can now fly drones, as the partial ban on recreational drone use has been lifted. However, the ban remains in effect in Dubai, as the emirate falls under the jurisdiction of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).
In a statement on X, the Ministry confirmed that the use of drones would be permitted under specific conditions to ensure public safety and security. The announcement came in coordination with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), and other relevant agencies.
“UAE lifts conditional ban on individual use of drones The Ministry of Interior, in coordination with the General Civil Aviation Authority, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, and relevant authorities, announced that the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for individuals is now available starting from January 7, 2025, according to specific requirements that ensure safety and protection of society,” read the statement.
The Ministry further explained that the UAE Drones app and the official website provide full details of the requirements, and the Unified National Drone Platform will handle registration and operational procedures. This move aims to enhance the quality of life and contribute to achieving the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
Although the ban has been lifted in most of the country, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority stated that drone use for recreational purposes in Dubai is still under review. The DCAA emphasized that drone use in the Emirate continues to be regulated according to Dubai’s laws and regulations to ensure the safety of its airspace.
