Hovering Groceries: The Integration of Drone Technology to Public Transport in the UAE
Transport & Insurance Focus
Bushra Abu TayehSenior Counsel,Transport & Insurance
Ameen Kim Associate,Transport & Insurance
The United Arab Emirates, particularly the Emirate of Dubai, is poised to revolutionize its transportation landscape through the strategic integration of drone technology into accessible public transport. As a pioneering force in embracing innovation, the Government of Dubai is ushering a future where drones play a key role in reshaping traditional modes of transport. According to recent reports, autonomous drones for last-mile deliveries, including groceries and packages, are set to be operational in Dubai by 2024. Impressive prototypes showcased at Gitex Global 2023 demonstrated prompt meal deliveries in just under four minutes after orders were placed. The pilot project, conducted by FEDS Drone-powered Solutions and Meituan UAS, featured the advantage of speed for drone delivery without air traffic delays.
Drones have also been trialled for other means, such as agriculture, surveillance, exploration, as well as entertainment usages. The increase in drone utilisation in the UAE accurately demonstrates the growing the global market for them, as the initial projection of USD 26.3 billion in 2021 has developed into a massive USD 54.6 billion projected for 2030. The UAE government is proactively establishing regulatory legislations to promote and encourage the responsible usage of drones within its borders, which reflects its commitment to balancing technological innovation and the need for safe and ethical integration of drones into various sectors in the UAE.
The UAE Federal Government has taken significant steps to regulate the civil use of unmanned aircraft through the issuance of Cabinet Resolution No. (110) on the UAE Regulation for Unmanned Aircraft of 2023. This resolution, complementing Federal Decree by Law No. (26) of 2022 (UAE Federal Drone Law), establishes a comprehensive framework governing the import, sale, assembly, manufacture, and operation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), including drones, across all emirates and free zones in the UAE. The regulatory compliance encompasses certification, documentation, and delineation of responsibilities for manufacturers and importers.
The approvals process for licensing involves obtaining consent from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the relevant Emirate's aviation authority, with additional requirements for design modifications or major repairs.
The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) plays a crucial role in issuing certificates and labels based on detailed technical documentation. A 180-day grace period was granted to importers and manufacturers for alignment with the resolution's provisions, which came into force on 6 November 2023.
The legal framework governing UAVs in Dubai is embodied in the Law No. (4) of 2020 (Dubai Drone Law), with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) designated as the regulatory authority overseeing drone activities. The law delineates permissible drone activities, including government, business, academic, and recreational uses, while emphasizing the protection of privacy and confidentiality. Recently, Law No. 10 of 2023 introduced amendments to the Drone Law, empowering the DCAA to regulate drone aerodromes, approve specifications, and oversee construction criteria. The DCAA is now the pivotal authority for permit issuance related to drone operations, fuel supply, and infrastructure development, further reinforcing Dubai's commitment to fostering a safe and regulated drone ecosystem.
The UAE Federal Drone Law outlines a set of prohibited acts or activities related to the use UAVs as regulated by the GCAA and/or the competent local authority. Prohibited actions include flying, using, or co-piloting UAVs without proper authorization, engaging in operations or monitoring activities related to its operating systems. The law explicitly forbids flying over restricted or prohibited areas (as defined by the GCAA and/or the competent local authority), aiming to safeguard sensitive locations from unwarranted surveillance. Additionally, the installation or equipping of UAVs with cameras or recording devices is restricted, underscoring the potential invasion of privacy concerns. Furthermore, any modifications to the UAV, its components, or systems that alter its registered functions and specifications are explicitly prohibited. These stringent measures aim to strike a balance between technological innovation and the protection of individual privacy, establishing a robust framework for responsible drone usage in the UAE.
The penalties under the UAE Federal Drone Law imposes fines ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 1,000,000 and imprisonment for a period of six months to five years for offenses, such as using UAVs in a manner that jeopardizes airspace or air navigation security, operating in restricted areas without proper permits, unlawfully seizing or taking control of UAVs, and illegally installing dangerous devices or substances. This law particularly addresses the unlawful collection of information and data, categorizing the installation of devices or equipment for such purposes without legal authorization or approval from the GCAA or the local competent authority as a serious offense. Furthermore, deliberate concealment of violations and accidents related to UAVs that impact airspace safety are strictly prohibited. The gravity of the penalties under this law underscores the stringent measures in place to protect data integrity and ensure responsible UAV usage in the UAE.
Al Tamimi & Comapny's Aviation team has extensive experience in advising transport and mobility matters in respect of UAE and KSA law. Our Digital & Data team has equal capabilities in providing advisory work in relation to automated systems and data protection. In addition, we have rights of audience before the courts across in Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, as well as local insights have enabled us to represent clients in complex local and multi-jurisdictional claims, defences, and commercial transactions. For further information on this sector or for any inquiries for assistance, please contact our Transport and Logistics Team and Technology, Media and Telecommunications Team.
For further information,please contact Omar Omar, Bushra Abu Tayeh and Ameen Kim.
Published in March 2024
