Sharjah Approves Draft Law Regulating Drone Use

A draft law regulating drone use across Sharjah has been approved by the Sharjah Consultative Council following discussions and amendments introduced during its 16th session. The proposed legislation establishes a regulatory framework covering different categories of drones and operational uses, with the stated aim of strengthening air navigation safety, improving oversight mechanisms, and aligning regulations with technological developments.
Council members reviewed the legislation article by article based on a report prepared by the Public Utilities Affairs Committee. Discussions focused on regulating a rapidly expanding drone sector while balancing technological development with safety, security, and airspace management requirements.
The draft law outlines procedures for drone registration, classification according to operational use, and the establishment of defined control systems governing operations. It also introduces regulations covering helicopter landing pads, designated flying zones, altitude restrictions, airspace controls, operational requirements, and legal obligations placed on drone operators.
According to the discussions, the Sharjah Civil Aviation Department will oversee technical and operational regulation of drone activity, while the Sharjah Police will be responsible for enforcement measures and handling violations or crimes linked to drone use.