The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a groundbreaking national regulation for air navigation service providers managing unmanned aircraft within its airspace, setting a new benchmark for drone operations in the region.
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced the regulation, known as CAR Airspace Part U-Space, marking the first such framework in the Middle East. The new rules establish operational standards and certification requirements for entities managing drone traffic, ensuring the safe and seamless integration of unmanned aircraft with commercial aviation.
Under the regulation, air navigation service providers for drones must comply with stringent criteria related to contractual agreements, training, quality control, safety measures, and auditing processes. The move is expected to bolster aviation safety as drone operations expand across various sectors, including logistics, surveillance, and emergency response.
The introduction of CAR Airspace Part U-Space comes as the UAE gradually eases restrictions on drone use. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Interior partially lifted a ban on individual drone operations, although the relaxation did not apply to Dubai.
Despite the easing of regulations, recreational drone users must still adhere to strict guidelines. They are required to register through the UAE Drones app and obtain a training certificate from GCAA-accredited service providers before operating any unmanned aircraft.
The new regulatory framework is seen as a step forward in positioning the UAE as a global leader in advanced air mobility while maintaining high standards of safety and operational efficiency. As drone technology continues to evolve, authorities aim to balance innovation with responsible airspace management.
