In the UAE, a recent Cabinet resolution has specified fees ranging from Dh200 to Dh10,000 for various services related to drones. These services include issuing permits, renewal, registration certificates, and establishment of facilities. The resolution, published in the Official Gazette in June, outlines 17 types of services with their corresponding fees. It is unclear how or when these new fees will be levied, but the resolution states that they will be effective 60 days from the publication date in the Official Gazette.
The service fees detailed in the resolution cover a range of drone-related activities. Examples include a drone registration certificate for entertainment purposes, a pilot certificate, a drone operator accreditation certificate, and approval for the manufacture, design, or maintenance of aircraft. The General Civil Aviation Authority will oversee the implementation of these fees and will collect them through solutions developed by the Ministry of Finance. Each Emirate’s relevant authorities will collaborate with the GCAA to provide drone-related services and charge the appropriate fees.
The GCAA, tasked with implementing the fees, has the authority to amend them as needed. This includes making changes to the fee structure such as additions, deletions, or adjustments. The resolution aims to regulate and standardize the fees associated with drone services in the UAE to ensure a fair and transparent system for drone operators and organizations. By specifying these fees, the government aims to streamline the process of obtaining permits, licenses, and certificates for drone-related activities while also ensuring compliance with safety regulations and protocols.
The resolution’s publication in the Official Gazette marks a significant step towards enhancing the regulation of drone services in the UAE. By setting clear fees for various drone-related services, the government aims to create a more structured and organized system for drone operators and businesses. The involvement of the GCAA and coordination with relevant authorities in each Emirate will facilitate the smooth implementation of these fees and ensure that drone-related services are carried out in accordance with regulations and standards set by the government.
It is essential for drone operators and organizations in the UAE to stay informed about these new fees and the services they cover. By understanding the fee structure outlined in the Cabinet resolution, operators can plan and budget for the costs associated with their drone activities. This transparency in fees and services will contribute to a more efficient and well-regulated drone industry in the UAE, benefiting both operators and consumers. In the future, further updates and revisions to the fee structure may be implemented to address the evolving needs and requirements of the drone industry.
