Qatar has introduced a comprehensive legal framework to regulate the use of drones, placing their operation under the supervision of the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA).
Law No. 10 of 2026 on the Regulation of Unmanned Aircraft empowers the QCAA to oversee drone activities in accordance with national legislation and applicable international conventions, in coordination with the relevant authorities in the country.
Under the law, the authority will designate the areas in which drones may be operated and determine the maximum permitted altitudes. It will also specify authorised airspace and flight routes to ensure the safety of air navigation and protect Qatar’s airspace.
The QCAA will be responsible for issuing and renewing licences and operational permits. It will also determine the types and categories of drones that may be used in Qatar and establish the technical requirements they must meet.
Rules governing the import and export of drones will also be introduced, while the authority will supervise and monitor operations to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
Environmental protection forms another key part of the legislation, with the QCAA tasked with establishing conditions and measures to safeguard the environment during drone operations.
All technical regulations and instructions issued under the law will be published in Arabic and English on the QCAA’s official website.
The legislation comes amid the rapid expansion of drone use in commercial, research and recreational activities. It is intended to enable individuals and businesses to benefit from the technology while maintaining aviation safety, regulatory oversight and the protection of the country’s airspace.
