Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE will begin lifting its ban on drone operations in phases starting November 25, according to the Ministry of Interior (MOI). The phased approach aims to ensure airspace safety while fostering innovation in the drone sector. During a press conference held at the Abu Dhabi Police College, MOI, in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, announced a new unified platform for drone operations. Initially, the platform will cater to government agencies and companies. Future phases will extend to individual hobbyists and other services. Colonel Jamal Al Hosani, Director of the Air Support Department at the Ministry of Interior, explained that the decision to lift the ban came after a thorough evaluation of operator compliance with safety protocols. "The strong commitment of drone operators to adhere to guidelines has been pivotal in this gradual restoration," Al Hosani told reporters. The drone ban was initially imposed in 2022 following incidents of misuse. Since then, operators have demonstrated significant progress in adhering to regulations, officials said. The newly launched UAE Drones app will streamline registration and licensing processes for entities seeking operational approval. Companies and government agencies can use the app to apply for permits, ensuring compliance with updated guidelines. In the coming months, officials will assess the platform's performance before extending services to individual drone users. The initiative also aligns with the UAE’s strategic goals of advancing drone technology in sectors like logistics, agriculture, and surveillance. ICA/Expat Media
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