A two-year UAE drone ban is partially lifted, as photography enthusiasts now eagerly await the prospects of capturing stunning landscapes from the country using aerial photography. The first phase of lifting the UAE Drone Ban will grant the privilege of starting the use of drones on 25 November, allotted for use in companies and government agencies; an extension to individuals might follow in some subsequent evaluation process.
Egyptian expat Atef Mahmoud, an amateur photographer, was optimistic about the development. “I bought my drone just months before the ban and had to pack it away. This decision is a step forward, and I hope individuals like me can soon use drones safely,” he said. Atef, who has been photographing UAE’s architectural marvels for over a decade, praised drones for enabling unique perspectives.
Emirati explorer Ahmed Almulla said drones offer much creative potential for professionals and hobbyists alike, but stressed that regulations were necessary. “A legal framework is key to creating safe and responsible drone usage while protecting privacy,” he noted. Authorities must speed up permit processes, he said.
This also reflects the promise of the UAE to develop technology responsibly. According to the General Civil Aviation Authority, the country already has specific fly zones for drones in a way of demonstrating safety protocol adherence.
The ban, which was introduced in 2022 when misuse was rampant, would be reviewed according to the assessment of compliance by the operators. Since 2022, companies and government organizations qualified to apply for licenses through the UAE Drones app, while the residents continue holding out for when other stages will allow them to use drones recreationally under defined regulations.
For many, this incremental return means a new chance at combining passion with innovation to capture the beauty of the UAE from new heights.
