Over the past few years drone laws In Saudi Arabia, drones have grown in popularity in Saudi Arabia as hobbyists, photographers, and companies all take advantage of their adaptability and flexibility.
To ensure public safety and national security, the Saudi Arabian government has enacted stringent regulations in response to this rise in drone usage.
We’ll give a summary of Saudi Arabia’s most recent drone laws in this blog post, as well as instructions on how to obtain a drone licence and stay out of trouble for breaking drone laws.
Drone Laws In Saudi Arabia:
In Saudi Arabia, drone laws are regulated by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), which is responsible for all drone rules and regulations and activities in Saudi Arabia.
According to the rules and regulations of GACA, all drone pilots must have a drone license and also need to register their drones to fly drones in Saudi Arabia.
GACA Drone Regulation In Saudi Arabia:
Drone Registration:
All drones operating in Saudi Arabia must be registered with GACA. The registration process involves providing personal and drone information, including the make and model of the drone, as well as the drone’s weight and purpose of use.
Drone License:
Drone operators in Saudi Arabia must obtain a license from GACA to operate their drones legally. The license is issued after the completion of a training program and the passing of a medical exam.
Drone Operation Restrictions:
There are several restrictions on drone operations in Saudi Arabia. Drones are not allowed to fly higher than 122 meters or beyond the operator’s line of sight. Drones are also not allowed to fly near airports or other restricted areas.
Prohibited Areas:
GACA has designated certain areas in Saudi Arabia as prohibited for drone operation. These include military bases, royal palaces, and other sensitive locations.
Categories Of Drones And Their Restrictions In Saudi Arabia:
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia classifies drones into three categories: nano, small, and medium. These categories are determined by the size, weight, and capabilities of the drone.
Nano Drones:
Nano drones are the smallest category of drones and are limited to a maximum weight of 250 grams. They are also limited to a maximum altitude of 50 meters and must remain at least 30 meters away from people and property.
Nano drones are not allowed to fly over crowds or in areas near airports or military bases.
Small Drones:
Small drones are the middle category and can weigh up to 10 kilograms. They are allowed to fly up to a maximum altitude of 150 meters and must remain at least 50 meters away from people and property.
Small drones are also not allowed to fly over crowds or in areas near airports or military bases.
Medium Drones:
Medium drones are the largest category and can weigh up to 25 kilograms. They are allowed to fly up to a maximum altitude of 300 meters and must remain at least 100 meters away from people and property.
Like the other categories, medium drones are not allowed to fly over crowds or in areas near airports or military bases.
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How to Get A Drone License In Saudi Arabia?
The General Authority of Civil Aviation in Saudi Arabia requires a licence before allowing drone pilots to operate there (GACA).
You must be at least 18 years old, have a current national ID, and pass a knowledge test on drone laws in order to submit an application for a drone licence.
Additionally, you need to be covered by third-party liability insurance for any harm your drone may cause. You can legally use your drone in Saudi Arabia after submitting your application and receiving your licence.
Prohibited Areas For Drone Flying In Saudi Arabia:
In Saudi Arabia, drone operators must be aware of the restricted areas where they are not permitted to fly. These consist of airports, governmental structures, and military bases.
It is against the law to fly drones in crowded places like stadiums and public gatherings. Heavy fines and other penalties may be imposed for breaking these restrictions.
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Is It Legal To Buy A Drone In Saudi Arabia?
Yes, purchasing a drone in Saudi Arabia is legal. It is crucial to remember that all drones used in Saudi Arabia must be registered with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and used in accordance with local drone laws.
Penalties For Violating Drone Laws In Saudi Arabia:
Fine:
If drone operator violates any of the regulations set by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), they may be fined. The fine amount can vary depending on the severity of the violation but can range from SAR 5,000 to SAR 50,000.
Confiscation Of The Drone:
If a drone operator violates the regulations and poses a threat to public safety, their drone may be confiscated by authorities temporarily or permanently.
Imprisonment:
In severe cases, drone operators who violate the regulations may face imprisonment. This penalty is usually reserved for cases where the violation poses a significant threat to public safety or national security.
How To Stay Up to Date With The Latest Drone Laws In Saudi Arabia?
It is essential to stay informed of the most recent developments because Saudi Arabia’s drone regulations are subject to constant change. Checking the General Authority of Civil Aviation’s (GACA) website frequently for updates and joining local drone enthusiast groups to learn from their experiences are two of the best methods of doing this.
Final Thoughts On Drone Laws In Saudi Arabia:
In order to protect the general public and the country’s security, Saudi Arabia has put strict drone laws and regulations into place. Operators of drones must abide by all laws in order to avoid fines, so it’s critical to keep up with any recent changes to these laws.
Operators can safely and legally enjoy flying their drones in Saudi Arabia by getting a licence and following to the usage guidelines. If you find our blog post helpful then leave a comment below.