Abu Dhabi issues new regulations to standardise use of drones

The decision applies to all types of UAVs and related activities

Anew policy has been issued in Abu Dhabi regulating the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).

The Department of Municipalities and Transport — Abu Dhabi (DMT) has issued Administrative Decision aims at ensuring the safe use of drones, in addition to the management, regulation, and monitoring of drone operations and related activities in Abu Dhabi.

It also seeks to standardise systems and procedures related to drones, contribute to making the emirate a hub for the drone industry, enhance smart transportation, as well as innovation in aviation, and attracting investment in the drone sector.

According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the decision applies to all types of drones and related activities in the emirate.

This includes design, manufacturing, assembly, modification, inspection, maintenance, or development of simulation systems, training, qualification, clubs, infrastructure development, airports, fuelling stations, energy, or other activities and uses related to operated drones in the emirate, including free zones.

Permits

The DMT also clarified that it has assumed several responsibilities under the applicable legislation, these include oversight, permit and certificate issuance, establishing rules for drone flight conditions, and setting standards for drone takeoff and landing sites, along with creating guidelines for dronespecific infrastructure like airports and runways in coordination with the relevant local and federal authorities.

Awareness workshops

DMT will also conduct awareness workshops for drone owners and operators, encompassing both individuals and entities.

The sessions will clarify the procedures and requirements for drone operation and associated activities within the emirate, in accordance with administrative directive, civil aviation regulations, and technical guidelines governing drone systems in Abu Dhabi.

The regulations cover design, manufacturing, assembly, modification, inspection, maintenance, or development of simulation systems. They apply to clubs, airports, fuelling stations, energy activities and instrastructure development.