The Cut
A Practical Guide to Drone Permits in Dubai, UAE
Planning a drone shoot in Dubai, or anywhere in the UAE, comes with a host of regulations, and not all of them are easy to find online.
As a Dubai-based production house operating across the MENA region, integrating drone footage into productions is routine for us at 815 Studios.
So, here’s a detailed breakdown to help you navigate the process of acquiring drone permits for commercial shoots in Dubai, complete with insider tips you won’t typically find online.
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The 5 Key Entities Involved in Drone Permitting in the UAE:
- Dubai Film & TV Commission (DFTC)
- Civil Aviation Authorities (GCAA & DCAA)
- Ministry of Defence (MoD)
- Air Traffic Control (ATC)
- Flight Tracker Services
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Dubai Film & TV Commission (DFTC)
All aerial filming permits begin here. Just like ground-based film permits, aerial permits must be submitted to the DFTC to secure location permissions.
- Every permit includes a unique reference number, which ensures alignment with Dubai Police for active commercial productions.
- This DFTC permit number is mandatory when applying to the Ministry of Defence later in the process.
💡 Tip: The cost and timeline vary depending on the location. For more on this, check out our article on Filming in Dubai.
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Civil Aviation Authorities (GCAA & DCAA)
Drone operations in the UAE require airspace approval from the aviation authorities.
- Dubai: You must apply through both the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).
- Other Emirates: Only GCAA approval is needed.
- Applications are submitted via each authority’s online portal.
Timeline:
- 3–5 working days (Give yourself longer! 2-weeks is safe).
Costs:
- GCAA: AED 0
- DCAA: AED 3,020 (paid online)
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Ministry of Defence (MoD)
Often overlooked, the MoD plays a crucial role in drone shoots across the UAE.
- A MoD representative must be present on set during your drone operation.
- Only submit your application after you’ve received approvals from the DFTC, GCAA, and DCAA.
Requirements:
- Completed MoD application form (signed and stamped by your company)
- Letter of Intent (in Arabic)
- DFTC permit
- Company trade license
- Pilot’s ID and commercial drone license
Timeline: Up to 5 working days
Fee: AED 2,650 (paid in person at the MoD office, where you’ll also collect your approval letter)
💡 Tip: During peak season (Sept-Dec), be flexible with shoot dates, MoD reps get booked quickly.
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Air Traffic Control (ATC)
While not always necessary, you may be required to coordinate with ATC depending on your shoot location.
- The Aviation Authority may request you to complete an ATC form.
- You’ll typically need to notify ATC before take-off and upon completion.
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Flight Tracker
A flight tracker is a device that logs your drone’s position and altitude in real-time for safety compliance.
- Must be obtained through an authorised rental company, such as Exponent Technology in Dubai.
- They’ll also assist with attaching the device to your drone via adhesives.
Cost: AED 450 per day
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Additional Tips for a Smooth Permit Process:
- Buffer Your Dates: When filling out permit applications, give yourself a wide date range (e.g., a couple of weeks) to avoid needing re-approval if you have to reschedule.
- Trade License Requirements: To apply for commercial drone permits, your company’s trade license must include Commercial RPAS as an activity, your general film production activity is not enough. .
- Security Clearance: Both GCAA and DCAA require prior security clearance before issuing any permits. Secure this first, or your application will be rejected.
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Final Thoughts
At first glance, the drone permit process in the UAE may seem complex, but once you’re familiar with it, it becomes second nature. And the payoff? Absolutely worth it. The UAE offers some of the world’s most stunning landscapes, perfect for capturing from above.
If you have any specific questions or want help with a permit, feel free to reach out.