Saudi Arabia’s Drone Laws in 2025: Strict Rules, New Updates & How They Compare Globally

by Marcin Frąckiewicz
in International Relations, Law, Technology
on 24 July 2025

Saudi Arabia has some of the strictest drone regulations in the world, and recent updates have introduced even more rules for pilots to follow. Both recreational hobbyists and commercial drone operators must navigate a tightly controlled legal framework before taking to the Saudi skies. In this comprehensive report, we’ll break down the current drone laws in Saudi Arabia, including who can fly and under what conditions, how to register and license your drone, where you’re allowed (and not allowed) to fly, privacy considerations, penalties for breaking the law, and the latest post-2023 changes. We’ll also compare Saudi regulations with those in the UAE, USA, and UK for a global perspective. Finally, we provide official resources and contacts to help you stay compliant.

Legal Status of Drones in Saudi Arabia (Recreational vs. Commercial)

Are drones legal in KSA? – Yes, flying drones is legal in Saudi Arabia, but it is highly regulated and subject to strict rules drone-laws.com. Both recreational (hobbyist) and commercial drone operations are permitted only if the operator complies with all General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) regulations drone-laws.com. In practice, Saudi Arabia treats drone flying very seriously due to security concerns drone-laws.com, so every flight must meet stringent conditions.

Recreational use: Hobbyist drone flights are allowed for Saudi residents, but only with a valid drone pilot license and proper registration of the drone if it weighs over 250 grams drone-laws.com drone-laws.com. Even for fun flights, operators must follow all safety rules (like staying in approved areas and below altitude limits) and cannot fly without authorization from GACA in many cases uavcoach.com. Saudi law considers drones “small aircraft,” so a casual hobbyist is held to high standards similar to a pilot.
Commercial use: Using drones for work (e.g. aerial filming, surveying, deliveries) is allowed but tightly controlled. Commercial drone operations require a GACA-issued Remote Pilot Certificate (license), drone registration, and specific permission for each operation area drone-laws.com uavcoach.com. Commercial pilots must follow all general drone rules plus any extra restrictions tied to their permit. Essentially, you need GACA’s approval to fly for business, ensuring safety and compliance with Saudi airspace rules.
Foreign visitors: Saudi Arabia currently does not allow tourists or foreign visitors to fly drones freely. As of 2025, only residents with a national ID can register drones, and visitors typically cannot obtain the required license or permission to fly drone-laws.com drone-laws.com. If you plan to bring a drone into Saudi Arabia, you must declare and register the drone’s serial number with customs in advance to get it cleared drone-laws.com. Without this, the drone will likely be confiscated at the border. In summary, non-residents face significant barriers to flying drones in KSA, unlike many other countries.

Registration and Licensing Requirements for Drone Operators

Registering your drone: Saudi Arabia mandates drone registration for virtually all drones except the very smallest toys. According to GACA rules, any drone weighing 250 grams or more must be registered and issued a Certificate of Aircraft Registration uavcoach.com. Key points about registration include:

Threshold: Drones ≥ 250g (0.55 lbs) require registration; sub-250g drones may be exempt if purely hobby and without advanced capabilities uavcoach.com. (Note: Drones under 250g used indoors or in formation may have separate rules drone-made.com, but most consumer drones will exceed this weight or require registration due to camera use.)
Process: Registration is done through GACA’s online UAS registration portal droneregulations.info, which requires an account tied to your National ID (Saudi citizens and residents). You must submit an application for a registration certificate, providing details about the drone (make, model, serial number) and owner.
Validity: Once approved, the registration certificate is valid for 3 years, after which it must be renewed uavcoach.com.
Identification number: GACA will issue a unique registration ID number for the drone, which must be affixed to the drone in a visible, secure manner before any flight uavcoach.com. Inspectors should be able to see this ID on the aircraft uavcoach.com. This is similar to a “license plate” for your drone.
Import note: As mentioned, if you are importing a drone (bringing it into Saudi Arabia), customs will check for registration. Each drone’s serial number must be registered with GACA to clear customs drone-laws.com. It’s wise to sort this out well before traveling to avoid your drone being held at entry.

Pilot licensing: Saudi Arabia is unusual in that it requires drone pilots to be licensed for both recreational and commercial flying. In other words, you can’t legally fly even for fun unless you have obtained a Remote Pilot Certificate from GACA drone-laws.com uavcoach.com. This certificate process ensures that operators understand aviation rules and safety. The licensing requirements are rigorous:

Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to qualify for a drone pilot license in KSA uavcoach.com.
Language proficiency: You must be able to read, write, and understand English (the international language of aviation) unless a specific exemption is given for a medical reason uavcoach.com.
Physical/mental fitness: You need to be in a proper physical and mental condition to safely operate a UAV. GACA may require a basic medical clearance to ensure you have no conditions that would impair safe flying uavcoach.com.
Knowledge test: All drone pilot candidates must pass an Aeronautical Knowledge Test administrated or approved by GACA uavcoach.com. This exam covers airspace rules, navigation, safety procedures, and regulations – similar to the FAA Part 107 test in the US. You’ll need to study drone regulations and basic aviation knowledge to pass.
Security clearance: Before issuing the license, GACA will conduct an aviation security background check. You must be cleared by the GACA Aviation Security Division (a screening to ensure you’re not a security risk) uavcoach.com.
Pilot certification: After meeting the above, you receive a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), sometimes called a drone license. GACA issues this under GACAR Part 61 provisions uavcoach.com. This certificate must be kept current and carried when operating. Both hobbyists and commercial pilots need this license in Saudi Arabia drone-laws.com drone-laws.com, which is a notable difference from many countries where hobbyists only need a basic test or no license at all.

In summary, Saudi Arabia treats drone operators much like full-scale aircraft pilots – requiring registration of the aircraft and licensing of the operator. Before flying, make sure your drone is properly registered and you (the pilot) are certified by GACA. Operating unregistered or without a license is illegal and can lead to serious penalties (as discussed later). Always keep copies of your registration certificate and pilot license when flying, in case authorities ask for them.

No-Fly Zones and Flight Restrictions in Saudi Airspace

Once you have permission to fly, where and how can you fly your drone in Saudi Arabia? GACA has imposed strict operational rules and no-fly zones to protect safety, security, and privacy. Pilots must plan their flights carefully to avoid restricted areas and violations. Here are the key drone flight rules and restrictions in Saudi Arabia:

Maximum altitude: Drones cannot fly above 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level in Saudi Arabia uavcoach.com. This altitude cap aligns with international standards and helps prevent conflicts with manned aircraft. Note: Some earlier local guidance mentioned 150 m, but the formal limit in GACA’s rules is 120 m AGL (which is ~400 ft) gaca.gov.sa. Staying below this ensures you remain well clear of most low-flying planes and helicopters. Exceptions would require special GACA authorization (for example, certain industrial inspections near tall structures can sometimes go higher with permission gaca.gov.sa).
Visual line-of-sight (VLOS): You must keep your drone within your direct line-of-sight at all times drone-laws.com. In practice, this means the pilot (or an observer in communication with the pilot) should always be able to see the drone with unaided vision (binoculars or FPV camera view don’t count). Flying beyond visual range (BVLOS) is not allowed without explicit waiver. Saudi regulations emphasize that the pilot must maintain control and awareness of the drone’s position to avoid hazards drone-laws.com.
Daytime only: Drone flights are restricted to daytime operations (between official sunrise and sunset) or at most civil twilight with proper lighting uavcoach.com. Night flying is not permitted unless you have special authorization and equip the drone with adequate anti-collision lighting. Good weather is also required – you should not fly in heavy rain, fog, sandstorms, or other conditions that impair visibility drone-laws.com.
No crowds or overhead people: It is forbidden to fly drones over people or large crowds of people drone-laws.com. You must avoid flying directly above public gatherings, populated beaches, busy streets, or any situation where people are underneath the drone. Saudi law frames this as both a safety and privacy issue. A minimum horizontal distance of ~30 meters from bystanders is advised in many cases (similar to European rules) gaca.gov.sa. Only fly over persons if they are part of your operation (e.g. official crew/assistants who have consented and are wearing protection) or if you have a GACA waiver for specific operations.
No-fly zones (airports and sensitive areas):Certain areas are strictly off-limits to drones. These include:
- Airports & aerodromes: Saudi regulations prohibit drone flights within at least 8 kilometers (~5 miles) of any airport or airfield unless you have explicit Air Traffic Control permission drone-made.com. This essentially creates a wide no-fly zone around all commercial airports. Even helipads and smaller airstrips should be avoided. Controlled airspace (Classes B, C, D, and the surface area of E) around airports is off-limits without prior ATC authorization uavcoach.com. Flying a drone near an airport without permission can be treated as a serious offense due to the risk posed to manned aircraft.
- Military and government sites: Flying over or near military bases, security installations, palaces, border areas, and other government facilities is strictly forbidden drone-laws.com terra-drone.com.sa. These areas are considered sensitive; drones can be perceived as security threats if spotted. You should research and stay far away from any military zones or important government buildings when planning your flight. Never attempt to fly near security operations or critical infrastructure.
- Other restricted zones: There may be additional temporary flight restrictions for certain events (e.g. near large public events, VIP movements) and permanent no-fly zones over critical infrastructure like oil facilities or certain holy sites. For example, the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah have airspace restrictions (manned aircraft themselves avoid direct overflight of the Kaaba in Makkah). While not always explicitly stated in civilian drone rules, it’s prudent to avoid religious sites or culturally sensitive areas with your drone. When in doubt, consult GACA or local authorities for any drone maps of authorized vs. restricted zones. Some third-party apps (like Airmap or DJI’s geofencing) may show these zones, but always double-check with official sources.
- National parks and private property: Saudi Arabia is developing regulations for parks and nature reserves – some may require special permission to overfly due to wildlife protection. Also, flying low over private property can violate privacy (covered in the next section). It’s best to keep a respectful distance from private farms, residential compounds, etc., unless you have permission.
Flight speed and other limits: Saudi drone rules also include some technical limits: max horizontal speed of 160 km/h (100 mph) drone-made.com uavcoach.com and no carrying or dropping of hazardous materials or any objects from the drone uavcoach.com uavcoach.com. Only one drone may be flown per pilot at a time (no swarms/formation flying) uavcoach.com drone-made.com. You also cannot operate a drone from a moving vehicle (like a car) unless you are in a sparsely populated area uavcoach.com. Essentially, the idea is to ensure the pilot is fully in control and not taking undue risks.

These rules make it clear that drone flying in Saudi Arabia is to be done in very controlled circumstances. Before you fly, plan your flight location and route carefully to ensure it’s in an authorized area. Stay well away from airports, strategic locations, and populated areas. Always yield right-of-way to any manned aircraft and land immediately if one is nearby. By adhering to altitude, VLOS, and no-fly zone restrictions, you greatly reduce the chances of an incident or legal trouble.

Privacy and Data Protection Regulations for Drone Use

Privacy is a major concern under Saudi law, and drone pilots must be extremely mindful of not violating others’ privacy or data protection rights. In Saudi culture and law, unauthorized surveillance or photography can lead to serious repercussions. When flying a drone with a camera, you must respect individuals’ privacy at all times drone-laws.com.

Key privacy-related rules and principles in Saudi Arabia’s drone regulation include:

No spying or unauthorized filming: It is explicitly prohibited to use drones for any form of unauthorized surveillance or photography of private properties or individuals terra-drone.com.sa. This means you cannot film people in their homes, backyards, or other private spaces without consent. Many Saudi homes are built with enclosed courtyards for privacy; flying a drone over such an area could be seen as a major intrusion drone-made.com. Operators should avoid pointing cameras at residential areas or other places where people expect privacy. Violating this can fall afoul not only of aviation rules but also Saudi’s strict laws against intrusion and harassment.
Data protection laws: Saudi Arabia has general data protection and cybercrime laws that punish the misuse of personal data or images. Sharing or publishing videos taken by a drone that include people’s faces, property, or other private details without permission could breach these laws. Always obtain permission if you plan to capture identifiable people or private property on camera. For commercial operations like real estate filming or events, ensure you have the necessary location permits and subject consents.
Sensitive locations imagery: Avoid capturing imagery of sensitive government or military sites. Even if your drone flight is authorized in a given area, focusing your camera on a restricted installation can be interpreted as espionage or a security threat. It’s best to steer clear of photographing government buildings, embassies, military facilities, critical infrastructure, or royal palaces. The authorities are particularly sensitive post-2019 (when recreational drones were briefly banned after an incident near a royal property). If security personnel approach you, always cooperate and show your permissions and footage to demonstrate you weren’t capturing anything sensitive.
Respecting cultural norms: In Saudi Arabia, photographing people (especially women and families) without consent is culturally insensitive and legally risky. Drone pilots should be careful not to film individuals in a way that could violate modesty or privacy. Beaches, private yards, and gatherings are examples where you should not fly overhead with a camera drone. Even if you’re flying over public lands, if your drone has a camera, angle it away from homes and people by default.

In summary, always err on the side of caution when it comes to privacy. GACA’s drone guidelines specifically remind pilots to “respect the privacy of others” drone-laws.com. Unauthorized filming is not just a civil issue – it can lead to criminal charges in Saudi Arabia. To stay safe, fly in open areas where you’re not likely to inadvertently record someone, and avoid using high-zoom cameras in populated locales. If your drone is equipped with recording devices, you are responsible for how that data is used. Treat all video/images as potentially sensitive and handle them according to Saudi privacy expectations (e.g. don’t post footage of strangers online without permission). By flying responsibly and respecting privacy, you help ensure drones remain welcome for beneficial uses.

Penalties for Violating Drone Laws in Saudi Arabia

Saudi authorities enforce drone regulations very strictly, and violations can lead to severe penalties. If you break the drone laws – whether by flying unregistered, without a license, in a no-fly zone, or endangering others – you risk fines, confiscation of equipment, and even arrest/prosecution. It’s important to take the rules seriously because the government has been actively cracking down on unauthorized drone use.

Fines: The most common penalty for drone infractions is a monetary fine. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) regularly issues fines to individuals who operate drones illegally. For example, in 2024 GACA reported penalizing 15 drone operators for “unpermitted drone use,” with total fines of SAR 75,000 (about USD $20,000) imposed arabnews.com. This averages to SAR 5,000 fine per person for flying a drone without proper permission. In another report, two cases of unauthorized drone use resulted in fines of SAR 10,000 each arabnews.com. These are significant sums, indicating that even a first-time offense can cost thousands of riyals.

Confiscation and loss of drone: If you are caught flying an unregistered drone or in a forbidden area, authorities may confiscate your drone equipment on the spot. You might lose your drone (and camera) permanently as it could be held as evidence or destroyed, especially if flown in a sensitive location. At the very least, you will be grounded and not allowed to continue flying.

Criminal charges: More serious violations – for instance, flying a drone in a manner that threatens public safety or security – can lead to criminal charges. Saudi law empowers the Ministry of Interior and GACA to treat reckless drone use as a crime. This could mean potential jail time in severe cases. While most hobbyists who make a mistake will likely face fines rather than imprisonment, it is not unheard of for individuals to be detained if the drone is flown near critical infrastructure or used for prohibited surveillance. The law also provides for imprisonment for those endangering aircraft (e.g., if a drone interferes with an airplane).

Specific examples of punishments: Aside from the fines noted, Saudi media have occasionally reported on incidents: In one case a few years ago, an unlicensed drone flying near a royal palace caused a security scare – the operator was swiftly arrested, prompting a temporary total ban on drones. That incident led to today’s strict registration regime drone-made.com. Another example is if a drone is flown over a crowd and someone is injured, the operator could be liable under general injury laws plus aviation laws – penalties could include heavy fines and civil damages, and possibly stricter criminal charges for negligence.

Airspace violations: If you fly in controlled airspace (like near an airport) without permission, you not only face GACA fines but could also violate Saudi aviation law, which has its own set of penalties. The Civil Aviation Law Violations Committee in GACA handles such cases uas.gaca.gov.sa. They can impose fines for each regulatory breach, and if an incident is egregious (like causing an airport disruption), charges under national security laws could apply. Trespassing in restricted areas (like flying into a royal compound or military base) is likewise extremely serious.

In summary, violating drone laws in Saudi Arabia is not taken lightly. Expect at minimum a fine (thousands of riyals) for an infraction, and the possibility of arrest or prosecution for serious or deliberate violations. Your safest course is always to follow the rules to the letter: get your license and registration, stick to permitted zones, and fly responsibly. If unsure about any rule, consult GACA first – it’s far better to delay a flight than to risk penalties. The combination of strict laws and active enforcement means non-compliance simply isn’t worth the risk in Saudi Arabia.

Recent Updates and Post-2023 Changes to Drone Legislation

Saudi Arabia’s drone framework has been evolving. The initial ban on drones was lifted in late 2018 with new rules, and since then GACA has periodically updated regulations to address advancing technology and new use cases (like drone delivery). Post-2023, there have been a few notable developments in Saudi drone legislation:

Formalization of regulations: Saudi Arabia first introduced comprehensive UAS regulations in 2018 droneregulations.info (with GACAR Part 107 for operations and Part 48 for registration). These rules have been amended over time. By 2023-2024, GACA released updated versions (e.g. GACAR Part 107 version 4.0) which refine categories of operation, remote ID provisions, and training requirements. The structure now aligns more with international standards (similar to FAA or EASA frameworks), dividing operations by risk level (open/specific categories) and introducing concepts like geo-awareness and declared no-fly zones gaca.gov.sa gaca.gov.sa. If you learned the rules a few years ago, be aware they have been modernized – always check the latest GACA circulars.
Drone delivery guidelines: In mid-2025, GACA officially released new regulations for commercial drone deliveries, signaling support for drone use in logistics linkedin.com. These new guidelines outline specific requirements: delivery drones must weigh under 25 kg (including payload) linkedin.com, must follow all existing airspace rules (no-fly zones, altitude limits, etc.), and require special licensing and waivers for beyond visual line-of-sight if that ever comes into play linkedin.com. Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) is still generally required unless a specific waiver is granted, meaning routine drone deliveries would need to operate in relatively short ranges or have observers along the route linkedin.com. The rules also reiterate no carrying of hazardous goods and ensure payloads are secure (no dropping items uncontrolled) linkedin.com. This update is a major step as Saudi Arabia positions itself to enable aerial delivery services under a controlled framework. While drone delivery to the public isn’t live yet, the regulatory groundwork is being laid.
Integration with Vision 2030 initiatives: Saudi Arabia’s government has a broader push (Vision 2030) to adopt advanced technologies. Drones play a role in this – from surveying NEOM and Red Sea projects to managing crowds during events like Hajj (where drones have been used for crowd monitoring and medical supply drops). In late 2023, authorities hinted at relaxing some restrictions to encourage industrial drone use (e.g., in oil & gas inspections, agriculture) while still maintaining security. For instance, there were talks of creating “drone corridors” or sandbox zones for testing delivery drones in Riyadh linkedin.com. By 2024, certain companies under government oversight were allowed pilot programs for drone deliveries on a trial basis (e.g., delivering documents or medical supplies in a controlled environment).
Remote Identification: Saudi regulations now include provisions for Remote ID (digital identification broadcast by drones), though as of 2025 the requirement is not yet actively enforced for all drones drone-laws.com gaca.gov.sa. GACA’s Part 107 has a subpart on “Identification, Geo-awareness & UAS geographical zones” gaca.gov.sa, indicating that the framework for Remote ID exists (including both direct broadcast and network-based ID capabilities). It’s expected that in the near future, Saudi Arabia might require drones to have Remote ID capability once the technical infrastructure is ready. This would align with countries like the US which mandated Remote ID by 2023. Drone operators should watch for announcements on this – future amendments could make Remote ID devices or compliant drones mandatory to fly legally.
Enforcement and awareness: Another change post-2023 is an increase in public awareness campaigns and enforcement transparency. GACA and the Saudi Press Agency have started publishing reports of fines and violations (as we saw for 2024), which serves to deter would-be violators and educate others on what not to do arabnews.com. Meanwhile, workshops and training programs are being organized to help enterprises understand how to legally incorporate drones. For example, GACA held a “Drone Innovation Challenge (Avithon)” in 2025 to spur local tech development, indicating a willingness to promote drones under the right regulatory conditions. So, while rules are strict, the government is simultaneously trying to facilitate compliant drone usage for economic benefits.

In conclusion, the trend since 2023 is that Saudi Arabia’s drone laws are getting more detailed and slightly more accommodating for advanced uses (like delivery and industrial operations), but without compromising on safety and security. Every drone pilot should stay updated – regulations can change multiple times in a year. Always refer to the latest GACA publications or official announcements for any new amendments. If any major law change happens (for instance, if they allow tourist drone flights or implement remote ID requirements), it will likely be announced via GACA’s website and national news. Keeping informed is part of your responsibility as a drone operator, especially in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment.

How Saudi Drone Regulations Compare to UAE, USA, and UK

To put Saudi Arabia’s drone laws in context, it’s helpful to compare them with the rules in other major countries. Below is a brief comparison highlighting similarities and differences between Saudi regulations and those in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), United States (USA), and United Kingdom (UK):

United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE also has very strict drone controls, somewhat similar to Saudi Arabia. In fact, the UAE banned recreational drones entirely in 2022 after security incidents. As of January 2025, the UAE lifted its ban but introduced tough new rules. All drones (regardless of size) must be registered with the UAE’s GCAA via a national platform xrtechgroup.com. Recreational drones are limited to 5 kg or less and can only fly in designated “green zones” shown in a mobile app (e.g., My Drone Hub) xrtechgroup.com. Flying is prohibited outside these approved areas without special permission. Like Saudi Arabia, the UAE enforces no-fly zones around airports, military sites, and residential areas, and privacy is heavily protected. Operators in the UAE also need authorization or certificates (for heavier drones or commercial use) and are subject to strong penalties for violations. One big difference: the UAE grounded all hobby drones for a period, whereas Saudi allowed them (with restrictions) – now both countries have converged on allowing hobby flight but under strict conditions. Penalties in the UAE can include jail and fines (in 2022 a few people were arrested for illegal drone use). The UAE’s recent adjustments show a cautious reopening, but arguably Saudi Arabia’s rules were already stringent and comprehensive from the start.
United States (USA): The USA’s drone laws (governed by the FAA) are more permissive for hobbyists compared to Saudi Arabia, but still impose registration and safety rules. In the US, drones are legal for both recreational and commercial use nationwide, as long as pilots follow FAA regulations thedroneu.com. Key points: recreational flyers in the US must pass a free TRUST test (basic safety test) but do not need a pilot license, unlike Saudi where even hobbyists need a license. Drones weighing over 0.55 lbs (250g) must be registered with the FAA (small fee) thedroneu.com, similar to Saudi’s 250g threshold. The FAA sets a 400 ft (120m) altitude limit and VLOS rule just like Saudi thedroneu.com. However, the US has a well-defined system for accessing controlled airspace – hobbyists and commercial pilots can request airspace authorization via an app (LAANC) to fly near airports under certain conditions thedroneu.com. Saudi Arabia, by contrast, generally forbids such operations outright or requires case-by-case high-level approval. Commercial drone use in the US requires an FAA Part 107 remote pilot license (knowledge test, age 16+) thedroneu.com, which is somewhat analogous to GACA’s pilot licensing but notably the US doesn’t require hobbyists to get that license. Another big difference: the USA has implemented Remote ID requirement as of September 2023 – all drones that require registration must broadcast an ID signal during flight thedroneu.com thedroneu.com. Saudi Arabia so far has not mandated Remote ID broadly. In summary, the US drone environment is more flexible for personal use (e.g., flying in a park away from airports is relatively easy in the US, requiring just registration and a simple test), whereas in Saudi Arabia personal use is treated almost like a commercial activity (license, strict zones). Enforcement in the US is also generally more lenient for minor infractions (education or warnings), while Saudi/UAE approach is punitive. That said, safety rules (400 ft, no reckless flying, etc.) are conceptually similar across both countries.
United Kingdom (UK): The UK, like the rest of Europe, has a detailed drone regulation system that lies somewhere between the US and Saudi in strictness. Drones are legal in the UK for recreational and commercial use, but operators must follow the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules. All drone operators in the UK must register and obtain an Operator ID and Flyer ID (if the drone has a camera or weighs over 250g) coptrz.com coptrz.com. This means even hobbyists need to go online, take a basic theory test (20 questions exam for the Flyer ID), and register their details, which is more involved than the US TRUST test but much easier than Saudi’s pilot licensing. The UK has a maximum altitude of 120m (400 ft) and VLOS requirement, identical to Saudi’s limit coptrz.com. There are strict no-fly zones around airports (usually 5 km radius) and you cannot fly closer than 50m to people or over large gatherings without special permission, similar to Saudi’s prohibition on overflying people. The UK categorizes drone operations by risk: Open, Specific, Certified categories coptrz.com. Most hobby drones fall in the Open category with subcategories depending on weight and proximity to people. Heavier or riskier operations require a special authorization from CAA (similar to how Saudi requires case-by-case permission for non-standard flights). Privacy is protected in the UK by data laws, but enforcement focuses on safety. Penalties in the UK for breaches can include fines and even imprisonment – for example, flying a drone without the required IDs (registration) is against the law and can lead to a fine or prison sentence coptrz.com (though in practice fines are more common). Compared to Saudi, the UK has a more accessible system for hobbyists (online test vs Saudi’s full pilot license). However, the UK’s emphasis on testing, registration, and categorizing risk reflects a similarly strong safety culture. Notably, Saudi has outright bans for foreigners and heavy restrictions, whereas the UK allows foreign visitors to fly under the same rules (they just have to register and follow the code). In global terms, Saudi and UAE remain among the most restrictive, while the UK and US allow more freedom but still enforce accountability through licenses/tests and registration.

Global takeaway: Saudi Arabia’s drone laws are among the toughest, mainly due to security concerns. The UAE likewise is very restrictive, especially after drone incidents, although it’s cautiously re-opening recreational use with heavy regulations. The US and UK both promote drone innovation and hobby flying but under safety frameworks (registration, pilot tests, and operational limits). One common thread is that all these countries require registration of drones and adherence to basic flight rules like altitude limits and no-fly zones – so these are universal concepts every drone pilot should know. Where Saudi Arabia stands out is requiring all pilots to be licensed and severely limiting who can fly (residents only, in approved areas). If you’re a drone enthusiast relocating from the US/UK to Saudi, be prepared for a far more stringent environment. Conversely, Saudi authorities often look at places like the US/Europe to update their rules, so future liberalization (e.g. allowing certain vetted hobby clubs or introducing drone sports) could happen gradually, but always within a strong safety-first framework.

Official Sources, Regulatory Bodies, and Resources for Drone Operators in Saudi Arabia

For anyone looking to operate drones in Saudi Arabia, it’s crucial to consult official sources and authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Below is a list of key regulatory bodies, official links, and recommended resources to help you stay informed and compliant:

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) – Drone Regulator: GACA is the national aviation regulator responsible for all civil aviation matters, including drones, in Saudi Arabia drone-laws.com. Their rules are law for drone pilots. Official GACA resources: The GACA website (available in Arabic and English) has a section for Laws and Regulations where you can find documents like “Rules and Regulations Related to Unmanned Aircraft Systems” (issued December 2018) droneregulations.info. Important regulatory documents include GACAR Part 107 (which covers operational rules for small UAS) and GACAR Part 48 (registration and marking requirements) droneregulations.info. Serious operators should review these to understand the detailed legal framework. GACA is also the body that will issue your drone license and any flight authorizations.
GACA UAS Registration & Permit Portal: To register drones or apply for flight permissions in KSA, you will use GACA’s online portal for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The portal can be accessed at droneregulations.info (uas.gaca.gov.sa) – you’ll need to create an account (using your National ID for residents) to use the services. Through this portal, you can submit registration applications, request operational authorizations, and find user guides (there is a User Guide link on the portal homepage uas.gaca.gov.sa). Keep this portal bookmarked; it’s essentially your gateway for all official drone paperwork in Saudi Arabia.
Contacting GACA for drone inquiries: If you have specific questions or need clarification on drone regulations, you can contact GACA directly. The GACA contact for drone-related queries (as listed on their site) includes an email [email protected] and phone numbers +966 11 525 3222 (or 525 3111) uavcoach.com. Reaching out to them can help if you’re uncertain about a particular operation or need guidance on the licensing process. (Be patient and persistent, as responses may not be fast – it’s noted that sometimes their mailbox gets full drone-laws.com.) Additionally, GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh can be visited for in-person inquiries if necessary (address is on their site drone-laws.com).
Saudi Press Agency (SPA) and GACA News: For recent announcements or rule changes, monitor the official news. GACA often publishes press releases via the Saudi Press Agency regarding updates in regulations or enforcement outcomes. For instance, news of fines or new drone programs are released to public media arabnews.com arabnews.com. Following GACA’s official Twitter or checking the “News” section on the GACA website can keep you informed about any emergent restrictions (e.g., temporary bans during events) or new initiatives (like the drone delivery regulations rollout).
UAV Coach – Saudi Arabia Guide: While not a government source, UAV Coach’s online guide for Saudi Arabia is a highly useful resource for quick reference. It summarizes the major drone rules and provides GACA’s contact info in English uavcoach.com. UAV Coach is updated regularly and can be a good starting point for foreigners to understand the basics (with links back to GACA site for details). Remember that it’s an interpretation of laws, so for any critical detail, double-check with the actual GACA text or contact officials.
Drone-laws.com (Saudi Arabia section): Drone-laws.com provides a comprehensive breakdown of Saudi drone laws, and it was last updated in May 2025 drone-laws.com, which means it includes the latest known changes. This site explains rules for hobbyists, visitors, and commercial flyers separately, and importantly, it links to official documents and references for verification. It’s written in an easy Q&A style and can be helpful to ensure you didn’t miss any rule (for example, it clearly states that foreign visitors currently cannot fly, and mentions the requirement of GACA Part 61 pilot certificates for all pilots drone-laws.com drone-laws.com). As with any third-party summary, use it as a guide but rely on official sources for the final word.
Global Drone Regulations Database (droneregulations.info): This is a community-updated database of drone laws by country. The Saudi Arabia page lists the key regulations and links to official documents droneregulations.info droneregulations.info. It even provides the link to the GACA UAS registration page and notes the last update (July 2023 in their case) droneregulations.info. Such databases are great for seeing the regulatory context and finding the direct links to laws. Just ensure the info is up-to-date when you read it.
Local drone community or groups: Given the restrictive nature of drone use, the community in Saudi Arabia is smaller, but you may find online forums (like a Saudi Arabia Drone Discussion Group referenced on some hobbyist sites drone-made.com) or even local clubs under university programs. Engaging with these (if you can find active ones) can provide practical tips, like where to safely fly as a hobbyist (e.g., some users might share known authorized flying fields outside cities) and firsthand experiences in dealing with the regulations. Always ensure any advice conforms to GACA’s rules, though – “everyone does it” is not a valid defense if it’s technically illegal.
Manufacturer resources (DJI AeroScope, etc.): If you are using popular drone brands (DJI, etc.), be aware that many have geo-fencing aligned with Saudi no-fly zones. DJI’s apps, for instance, won’t allow takeoff in red zones (airports, etc.) without special unlocking. Checking your drone’s app for local restrictions is a good supplement to official maps. However, do not rely solely on drone software – something not geo-fenced could still be illegal to fly. Always cross-reference with GACA guidelines.

Bottom line: Make use of the official GACA channels for anything formal – registration, licensing, permission requests, and authentic law texts. Supplement that with reputable websites like UAV Coach or Drone-laws.com for explanation and practical guidance. And never hesitate to seek clarification from GACA if you’re unsure; it’s better to get an official answer than to risk an infraction. With the resources above, you should be well-equipped to understand and follow the drone laws in Saudi Arabia.

Summary

Saudi Arabia’s drone laws in 2025 can be summarized as legal but highly regulated. Drones are allowed for both recreational and commercial use by residents, yet the government requires strict compliance: all drones over 250g must be registered, and operators need a GACA-issued drone pilot license regardless of flying for fun or work. Operational rules mandate flying only in authorized areas, below 120m altitude, within line-of-sight, and away from people, airports (8km exclusion), and sensitive sites. Privacy protection is paramount – unauthorized filming or surveillance with a drone is forbidden. Violating these regulations carries heavy consequences, with fines commonly in the thousands of riyals and serious offenses risking arrest or worse. Recent updates show Saudi Arabia refining its laws – embracing new uses like drone delivery under tight rules – but the overarching theme remains safety and security first.

In a global context, Saudi drone regulations are among the strictest, akin to the UAE’s approach, and far more restrictive than the frameworks in the US or UK which permit more hobbyist freedom. For anyone intending to fly a drone in the Kingdom, the key advice is: do your homework and follow every rule. Utilize the official GACA resources for guidance, complete all required paperwork (registration/license), and plan your flights meticulously to stay within legal bounds. By respecting Saudi Arabia’s drone laws, you can avoid penalties and enjoy the unique opportunity to capture the Kingdom’s landscapes from above – all while staying safe and responsible. drone-laws.com arabnews.com

Tags: Drone Laws, Saudi Arabia, Technology