Abu Dhabi: The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has introduced a new national regulation to ensure the safe integration of drones into the country’s airspace alongside traditional aircraft.
Known as CAR Airspace Part Uspace, the regulation establishes a structured framework for certifying air navigation service providers for unmanned aircraft. The initiative, the first of its kind in the region, is aimed at creating a safe and efficient regulatory environment for drone operations, said GCAA.
It covers critical aspects such as contracting, training, quality assurance, safety measures, auditing, and certification for service providers. The regulation is expected to streamline drone operations in the existing aviation ecosystem while maintaining airspace safety and efficiency.
“The goal is to seamlessly integrate drone operations into the existing aviation ecosystem, ensuring a cohesive, efficient, and safe airspace through licensed entities that provide specialized air navigation services for drones,” the GCAA has said.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, said, “The introduction of the region’s first national regulation for certifying drone air navigation service providers represents a transformative step in keeping pace with technological advancements and driving sustainable global investments in this sector.” Al Suwaidi said this regulation is not just about compliance. “It is a testament to our commitment to aviation safety, efficiency, and innovation. As drone operations are set to double in the near future, this proactive regulatory framework will serve as a model for seamless drone-commercial aviation integration, further cementing the UAE’s position as a regional leader in the aviation industry,” he added.
The GCAA also said this marks a “pivotal milestone in advancing drone technology and fostering sustainable global investments, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leader in the future of aviation.”
Meanwhile, Aqeel Ahmed Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General – Aviation Safety Affairs, said, “This regulation is a cornerstone of our strategy to integrate advanced drone technologies into our airspace safely. By establishing clear certification standards, we ensure that all providers operate with the highest level of safety and professionalism.” Al Zarouni said that this initiative will not only support the drone industry’s growth but also enhance the overall safety and efficiency of our national airspace, making the UAE a regional benchmark for innovative and responsible aviation practices.
With the rapid evolution of drone technology, airspace demand for crewless aircraft is increasing unprecedentedly. In the coming years, drone operations across the UAE are expected to double, driven by technological advancements and a growing reliance on autonomous aerial systems.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Interior partially lifted the ban on individual drone use, though the change did not apply to Dubai. Recreational drone users must adhere to specific conditions, including registering via the UAE Drones app and obtaining a training certificate from a GCAA-accredited provider.
