How to Register Your Drone for Recreational Use in UAE

With Partial Drone Ban Lifted, UAE Photography Lovers Can See a Return to the Former Glory Days. The lifting of the ban started in November of 2023, which allows flying drones for recreational purposes. However, the relaxation rules do not apply to Dubai, which remains part of the jurisdiction of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).

Registration Requirements for Drone for Recreational Use:

Here is a Step-by-step guide on how to register for using drones for fun, with all the requirements, is as follows for residents outside Dubai:

• The applicant must be over sixteen
• The applicant must have drone training from an independent accredited center
• Be fully compliant with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Guidelines
• Drone must be under 5 Kg
• Passport copy
• Visa copy
• Recent photograph (colored) with white background (3×3.5cm)
• Emirates ID
• A pilot training certificate issued from the local authority

How to Register:

1. Go to the site dedicated to official registration: drones.gov.ae.
2. Log in: Go online or use your UAE Pass to sign up. Existing users may enter their credentials to log onto the site.
3. Pick Account Type: New users logging in with UAE Pass should choose between ‘Recreational’ and ‘Commercial’ accounts. Select the ‘Recreational’ option
4. Fill in Personal Details: Type in your name, passport number, and other relevant data
5. Upload Documents: You must upload the following documents:

• Valid Passport copy
• Visa copy
• A recent color photograph with a white background (3×3.5cm)
• Emirates ID
• Pilot training certificate from a local authority

6. Accept terms, and Submit: Read and accept the terms and conditions, then click the ‘Continue’ button toward submission of your application.
7. Await Review: The GCAA will review your application within a maximum of 5 working days.
8. Payment for registration will be made through a link in an email sent after approval.

Cost and Fees: 

• Issuance Fee: Dh200 for the registration certificate.
• Renewal Fee: Dh200 every two years to renew the registration.

With these steps in place, recreational drone users will find it relatively easier to fly drones under the GCAA regulations outside Dubai.