Drones: the dos and don’ts

• According to GCAA regulations, all drones must be registered with the authority, a process that currently cannot be completed at the point of sale.

• UAE privacy and security laws prevent the use of private drones from being flown with a camera unless approval is given by the GCAA, which is a problem as many drones are sold with cameras built-in.

• Drone operators are legally responsible for the safe conduct of each flight and must know the rules, as failure to comply could lead to penalties or even criminal prosecution.

• The drone must be inspected before each flight to check for damage and to make sure all the components work correctly.

• Drones must always be kept within visual sight of the operator, only fly during daylight and at no higher than 400ft (122m) above ground level.

• If a manned aircraft is seen or heard in the vicinity, the drone must be landed immediately.

• The operator must make sure to avoid collision with people, other objects and other aircraft and it must not be flown in a manner that could endanger people or property.

• If there is an accident, the operator must inform the GCAA.

• It is illegal for the drone to be flown over a “congested” area, like streets, cities or public events.

• The unmanned aircraft must stay at least 5km away from airports, helicopter landing sites and restricted government and military areas.

•The drone cannot fly within 200 metres of a person or building and cannot be flown overhead of groups of people at any height.

•Private drones weighing more than 5kg cannot be flown outside of GCAA approved flying clubs.

• If the drone is to be used for commercial activity, it must be approved by the GCAA and the authority must be notified if a drone is to be sold.

* Nadeem Hanif