Qatar has introduced a new legal framework governing the use of drones and other unmanned aircraft across the country.
Law No. (10) of 2026 on the Regulation of Unmanned Aircraft places the sector under the supervision of the and covers commercial, research and recreational operations.
The law was published in the twelfth issue of Qatar’s Official Gazette for 2026.
QCAA to oversee drone operations
Under the law, the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority will regulate unmanned aircraft operations in accordance with applicable national laws, international conventions and coordination with other relevant authorities.
The framework is intended to support the growing use of drone technology while safeguarding air navigation and protecting Qatar’s airspace.
Licences and permits
One of the QCAA’s principal responsibilities will be issuing and renewing licences and operational permits for unmanned aircraft.
Individuals and businesses planning to use drones will therefore need to comply with the applicable approval procedures before beginning operations.
The detailed requirements for different operators, activities and aircraft categories will be defined through technical regulations issued by the authority.
Permitted drone types
The QCAA will determine which types and categories of unmanned aircraft may operate in Qatar.
It will also establish the technical specifications that drones must meet, allowing the authority to assess whether an aircraft is suitable for safe operation within the country’s aviation environment.
Approved areas, routes and altitudes
The new framework gives the QCAA responsibility for identifying where unmanned aircraft may operate.
This includes setting:
- Permitted operational areas
- Maximum flight altitudes
- Approved airspace
- Authorised flight routes
These measures are designed to reduce risks to conventional aircraft, people, property and sensitive locations.
Import and export procedures
The law also covers the import and export of unmanned aircraft.
The QCAA will establish the relevant rules and procedures, meaning individuals and companies may need to meet regulatory requirements before bringing drones into Qatar or exporting them from the country.
Monitoring and regulatory compliance
The authority will supervise and monitor drone operations to ensure operators follow applicable laws, permits and technical instructions.
This oversight may cover whether an aircraft is approved, whether the operator holds the correct authorisation and whether the drone is being flown within permitted locations, routes and altitudes.
Environmental protection requirements
Environmental protection is also included within the regulatory framework.
The QCAA will establish conditions and measures intended to protect the environment during drone operations, alongside its wider responsibilities for aviation safety and airspace management.
Technical instructions to be published in Arabic and English
The detailed technical regulations and operational instructions supporting the law will be issued in both Arabic and English.
They will be published through the official Qatar Civil Aviation Authority website, where the authority already provides information and services relating to unmanned aircraft.
What drone operators should do
Drone owners, recreational users and businesses should not assume that possession of an aircraft automatically allows them to fly it anywhere in Qatar.
Before operating, users should:
- Review the latest QCAA requirements
- Confirm whether a licence or permit is required
- Check that the drone type is permitted
- Verify the approved operating area and altitude
- Follow all safety, airspace and environmental conditions
As further technical regulations are published, operators should rely on the QCAA’s official channels for confirmed requirements rather than unofficial guidance.
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