United Arab Emirates Drone License Guide
How to get your GCAA Remote Pilot Licence + Operator Certificate — issued by General Civil Aviation Authority (UAE). Cost, exam format, altitude limits, and renewal — all up to date for 2026.
Key data at a glance
| Total cost | AED 6,000 – AED 18,000 (USD $1,600 – $4,900) |
| Renewal cycle | 2 years |
| License classes | 3 categories |
| Maximum altitude | 120 m (~400 ft) AGL |
| BVLOS allowed (standard) | Yes (under specific approval) |
| Remote ID required | Yes |
| Minimum age | 21 years |
| Exam format | GCAA-approved Drone Training Organisation — theory + practical. Typically 5–10 days with English instruction. |
GCAA drone classes / categories
Recreational
MTOM < 5 kgPermitted in designated areas with hobby registration
Commercial Light
MTOM < 25 kgGCAA Remote Pilot Licence + Operator Certificate
Commercial Heavy
MTOM > 25 kgOperator + per-flight authorisation; DCAA in Dubai, ADAA in Abu Dhabi
Operational limits
- All commercial operators must register with GCAA + emirate-level authority
- Dubai: separate DCAA registration + per-flight DCAA approval
- Abu Dhabi: ADAA approval required
- VLOS only by default; BVLOS requires Operations Manual
- Night ops, urban, infrastructure → emirate-specific permission
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United Arab Emirates drone license — frequently asked questions
Can I bring my drone into the UAE as a tourist?
Generally no — drones are commonly held at customs unless you have prior approval from GCAA + the emirate authority. Hobby flying without registration is illegal.
What is the difference between Dubai DCAA and Abu Dhabi ADAA?
Each emirate has its own civil aviation regulator on top of the GCAA federal layer. DCAA covers Dubai and ADAA covers Abu Dhabi. Both require their own registration and per-flight approval.
How much does GCAA drone training cost?
AED 6,000 – AED 18,000 depending on the Drone Training Organisation (FlyDubai Aviation Academy, Sky Frontier, Falcon Eye, etc.).
Are FAA Part 107 licences valid in the UAE?
No — operators must hold a GCAA Remote Pilot Licence and emirate-level approval. FAA experience accelerates training but is not a substitute.
Is BVLOS allowed in the UAE?
Yes, under operator certification with an approved Operations Manual. Several UAE-licensed operators run delivery and survey BVLOS programs in collaboration with the emirate authority.
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