Government Bans Future Sales Of The Aircraft

If you thought we had it bad with the FAA's stance on UAVs here in the U.S., consider this. The UAE government in Abu Dhabi has banned the future sale of small UAVs in that country until legislation and regulations can be issued by the relevant authorities there.

According to the online news source Emirates 24/7, the Abu Dhabi Business Center, which is affiliated with the Department of Economic Development, halted sales in an effort to slow the spread of the aircraft, and their "improper use."

"The ceasing of trading activity for the sale and purchase of drones from shops in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi comes within the mandate of the center to regulate and control commercial activities that may negatively affect community security," said Mohammed Rashid Al Rumaithi, Acting Executive Director of Abu Dhabi Business Center.

Ahmed Tarish Al Qubaisi, Acting Director of the Commercial Protection Department in Abu Dhabi Business Center, said all outlets selling the aircraft have been asked to take them off their shelves. He also called on the public to stop buying UAVs until the government finalizes laws regulating their use.

But it does not appear that the UAE government is much closer than the FAA in finalizing those rules. Emirates 24/7 reports that new legislation is expected to be issued "soon" in terms of weight and type of use. There will also be regulations for those flying strictly for recreational purposes, government agencies, and commercial entities which will likely be required to obtain a permit before flying a UAV in UAE airspace.

(Image from file)

FMI: https://adbc.abudhabi.ae/citizenaccess/