Drone legislation in Saudi Arabia: What you need to know

The use of drones in Saudi Arabia, whether for recreational or commercial purposes, is subject to very strict regulations designed to guarantee national security, aviation safety, and respect for privacy. The primary authority responsible for these regulations is the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). Navigating this legal framework is essential for any drone operator in the Kingdom.

The Key Regulatory Authority: GACA

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is the government body that oversees all aspects of civil aviation in Saudi Arabia. It establishes regulations, issues permits, and controls airspace for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAS/drones). Anyone wishing to operate a drone must strictly adhere to GACA guidelines.

The Fundamental Principles of Regulation

Saudi Arabia’s drone legislation rests on several pillars. Ignoring any of these principles can have serious consequences. The rules primarily distinguish between recreational and commercial use.

• Mandatory registration: Absolutely all drones, regardless of their size or use, must be registered with the GACA before use.
• Flight authorization: Registering the drone is not enough. Each flight or series of flights for a specific project requires prior authorization.
• Operator responsibility: The pilot is fully responsible for flight safety, potential damage caused to third parties or property, and compliance with legislation.

Procedure for Drone Pilots (Commercial Use)

For professionals (photography, inspection, mapping, etc.), the process is rigorous and must be followed to the letter.

1. Company and pilot registration: The company must be registered with the GACA and the pilot often has to prove their skills and training.
2. Drone registration: Each device used must be declared and registered on the GACA online portal, providing its technical specifications and serial number.
3. Flight authorization request: For each mission, a detailed request must be submitted. It must include the flight plan, date, time, altitude, precise area of ​​operation, and mission objective.
4. Coordination with authorities: Depending on the flight area, coordination with other government entities (such as the Ministry of the Interior) may be required.

General Flight Rules to be Observed

Once authorization is obtained, pilots must adhere to strict flight rules to ensure safety:

• Never fly over airports, military installations, royal palaces, government buildings and oil areas.
• Maintain the drone in direct visual contact (VLOS) at all times.
• Do not exceed a maximum altitude of 120 meters (400 feet) above the ground.
• Fly only during the day and in good weather conditions.
• Strictly respect the privacy of others. It is forbidden to film people or private property without their explicit consent.
• Do not fly over crowds or public gatherings.

Specific Case of Tourists and Recreational Use

Importing and using drones by tourists is extremely complicated and often prohibited. Visitors are strongly advised against bringing a drone into Saudi Arabia without first obtaining all the necessary permits, which is a lengthy and complex process. Undeclared drones are systematically confiscated at customs.

For recreational use by residents, although theoretically possible in designated areas, it also requires registration and specific permits, making the practice highly regulated.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The penalties for violating drone legislation are severe. They can include heavy fines, permanent confiscation of equipment, and even prison sentences, especially if the drone has flown over a sensitive area or has been perceived as a threat to national security.

Conclusion

In summary, flying a drone in Saudi Arabia requires meticulous preparation and strict adherence to regulations. GACA is the sole authority on this matter. Before taking any steps, it is essential to consult their official website for the most up-to-date information and to begin the registration and authorization processes well in advance. Caution and compliance are key to a legal and trouble-free flying experience in the Kingdom.