Get All Access for $5/mo

Time To Soar: How You Can Own And Legally Fly A Drone In The UAE The UAE launched its National Sterilization Program to help curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, which was underscored by the use of some pretty cool technology.

By Tamara Clarke

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

DJI Mavic Mini
DJI Mavic Mini with three-axis motorized gimbal

The UAE launched its National Sterilization Program to help curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, which was underscored by the use of some pretty cool technology. Photos of hovering drones spraying disinfectant across Dubai surfaced on the Internet proving just how useful drones can be in a commercial capacity. In fact, DJI, a world leader in drone technology, has put out fleets of drones to carry medical supplies and perform temperature checks in the fight against coronavirus.

While drones are indeed an example of high tech helping battle a global pandemic, the devices are also practical for recreational use. In the UAE, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) requires that hobbyists register their drone and receive certification before taking flight. GCAA is the most prominent authority regarding unmanned aerial vehicles in the UAE, but each Emirate has its own regulatory agency as well. For example, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority requires a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) Training Certificate before registering a drone.

This is where Sanad Academy, the UAE's first RPA training and certification specialists endorsed by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, comes in. Sanad Academy offers a basic bootcamp program designed to give first time fliers the training they need to succeed. The three-hour course includes guided lessons, computer aided flight simulation and practical filed training across a sprawling land for an investment of AED945. Those with flying experience can hop straight to the Hobbyist Certification, which costs considerably less at AED 368. All course materials are provided, as well as top-of-the-line facilities including sprawling acres for flight tests and drones.

Trainees are welcome to learn using their own drones, but Sanad Academy has a host of options on-hand to try including the Mavic Mini, an optimal choice for beginners. It's an ultra-light folding drone, made for everyday use with easy-to-use controls and a compact design. Weighing just 249 grams, DJI Mavic Mini is portable and easy to fly, giving its pilots complete control. It also captures high quality footage from a bird's eye view. With drone piloting skills being more in demand now than ever before, it's a lot easier for both hobbyists and those with commercial interests to take to the skies- so, go on, get out, and soar to new heights!

Related: Paradigm Shift: Meet Talib M. Alhinai, The Emirati Entrepreneur Reimagining Drone Tech

Tamara Clarke

Columnist

Tamara Clarke, a former software development professional, is the tech and lifestyle enthusiast behind The Global Gazette, one of the most active blogs in the Middle East. The Global Gazette has been welcomed and lauded by some of the most influential tech brands in the region. Clarke’s goal is to inform about technology and how it supports our lifestyles. See her work both in print regional publications and online on her blog where she discusses everything from how a new gadget improves day-to-day life to how to coordinate your smartphone accessories. Visit www.theglobalgazette.com and talk to her on Twitter @TamaraClarke. #TamTalksTech 
Thought Leaders

Entrepreneurs Could Be at a Higher Risk for Suicide. A Psychologist Explains Why.

Entrepreneurs face a higher risk for suicidal thoughts. We need to talk about it.

Growth Strategies

Building Momentum: One Year Since the COP28 Concluded, Here's How the Event Has Impacted the UAE's Private Sector

Insights from L'Oréal Middle East, Accenture Middle East, Chalhoub Group, Radisson Hotel Group, Replate, E2D Food, and Fuelre4m.

Growth Strategies

Nominations Are Now Open for the Enterprise Agility Awards 2024

The deadline for nominations is December 2, 2024, and they can be submitted on the Enterprise Agility Awards 2024 website.

Entrepreneurs

Double-Edged Sword: Why Burnout Is Both A Curse And A Catalyst In The Creative Industry.

In small doses, burnout can be a creative accelerant. Like a muscle pushed to its limit in the gym, brief bursts of high intensity can push us to break new barriers.

Entrepreneurs

Forty Years And Counting: Servcorp's Long-Serving CEO Alfred George Moufarrige

How Australia-born Lebanese Alfred George Moufarrige invented the concept of serviced offices.

Growing a Business

8 Initiatives That Can Supercharge Your Startup

Great entrepreneurs make their own luck. The smart ones get some extra support early on critical decisions, and work a bit harder on issues that are common startup killers.