Dubai introduces new laws regulating RPAS

The emirate – a firm supporter of RPAS and the sponsor of the recent ‘Drones for Good’ international competition – had called for an urgent review following an incursion into Dubai International Airport (DXB) by an RPAS being used for private leisure use. The incident led to a three-hour suspension of air services which am Air Traffic Management representative at a recent Dubai safety conference said the cost would have had a “large number of zeroes”
A statement by the Dubai government said the law aims “to organise the activities and profession in the civil aviation industry and prohibit all acts that may endanger airplanes, airports or any facility related to aviation services".
The law also authorises Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to specify the airspace dedicated for general aviation and the regulation controlling the usage of laser, fireworks, light beams and drones. The authority can also reserve the right to inspect towers and helipads.
The law calls for civil aviation workers in Dubai to obtain an annual permit from the DCAA, with penalties and fines to be imposed on violations.
Neighbouring Abu Dhabi currently has a ban on the use of RPAS unless preciously approved by the Government.