DUBAI // New laws are needed to govern the use of drones and robots for recreation and research, a judicial official has said.
There must be clear legislation to ensure the optimal use of drones for development and humanitarian purposes, according to Dr Jamal Al Sumaiti, director general of the Dubai Judicial Institute (DJI).
The UAE was positioning itself as a leading proponent of regulations regarding the use of drone technology, he said at a seminar on the topic at the DJI on Wednesday.
Dr Al Sumaiti emphasised the importance of such legislation to prevent the proliferation and misuse of advanced technologies, which might threaten aviation security, human lives and
facilities.
“[The UAE] will soon be issuing an integrated law aimed at regulating its use for recreational, research, commercial or service purposes,” he said.
“While also monitoring their trade and preventing their use, particularly in the air, without prior approval from authorities that will be established to ensure aviation safety and security,” he said.
The move was in line with the vision and directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said Dr Al Sumaiti.
Abu Dhabi this month banned the sale of recreational drones on the grounds they pose a risk to aviation, while the General Civil Aviation Authority said this month that it was finalising a regulation concerning drones and other aviation-related sports.
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