Drone Laws in Saudi Arabia: Rules for Individuals and Businesses

Yes, drones are allowed in Saudi Arabia, but they are regulated by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). What you need depends on one question: are you flying for fun, or for business? This guide explains the rules for both, in plain language, with examples from the Eastern Province.

Flying for fun: the basic rules

• Register your drone if it weighs 250 grams or more, on GACA's UAS portal (uas.gaca.gov.sa). Registration generally requires a Saudi National ID or Iqama, and each registered drone gets a registration mark to display.
• Keep it in sight. You must be able to see the drone with your own eyes, not only through the screen.
• Fly in daylight and in good weather. Night flights need specific authorization.
• Stay low. The commonly cited maximum is about 120 metres (400 feet) above the ground; check GACA's current limit before you fly.
• Avoid people and crowds. Don't fly over gatherings, busy roads or other people's private property without permission.
• Respect privacy. Filming people or homes without permission can break privacy laws even if the flight itself is legal.

Where you can't fly

Some places are restricted for everyone, and others need special approval:

• Airports and airstrips: in the Eastern Province that includes King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and the airfields around Dhahran. A distance of 5 km is commonly cited.
• Military sites, government buildings and palaces.
• Critical infrastructure: oil and gas facilities, power stations, substations, water plants and communication sites. Restrictions can extend well beyond the fence.
• Crowds and public events, unless the organiser has the right approvals.

What is GACA Part 107?

GACA Part 107 (also written GACAR Part 107) is the Saudi regulation for non-recreational, commercial drone operations. In its latest version it separates flights into an Open category for lower-risk work and a Specific category for higher-risk work, such as flights beyond visual line of sight, which need formal authorization. Drone registration is covered by a separate regulation (Part 48).

Flying for a business: what you need

• A GACA Remote Pilot Certificate, earned by passing GACA's theory exam on air law, weather and operations.
• A registered drone with its registration mark.
• Approval for the type of operation. Aerial photography and inspection work can need different approvals, and complex jobs need an Operational Authorization.
• A site check before every job, for airspace restrictions and any approvals needed.

GACA does not allow hobby-style flying for paid business work. If you need aerial photos or an inspection for your company, hire a certified operator rather than "a friend with a drone". Read how to check that an operator is legal.

How to get a drone permit, step by step

1. Create an account on GACA's UAS portal.
2. Register your drone (250 g or more) and display the registration mark on it.
3. For commercial work, pass the Remote Pilot Certificate exam and apply for approval of your type of operation.
4. For restricted locations, such as near airports or critical sites, request specific authorization before the flight.

Exact fees, processing times and forms change, so always follow the current instructions on GACA's official portal.

Penalties

Flying without registration, in restricted areas or against the rules can lead to confiscation of the drone and fines, and serious violations near sensitive sites can bring criminal charges. It's never worth the risk.

Need drone work done legally?

Madar Drone's pilots are GACA certified and check every site before flying. We work across Al Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran and Qatif: aerial photography and video, and inspections for businesses and facilities, including sites that need coordination with the facility and the right approvals.

This article is general guidance based on publicly available information, not legal advice. Regulations change; always confirm the latest requirements on GACA's official website.