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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation requires prior approval for all drone operations in Kuwait, a rule designed to mitigate risks around private properties, military sites and critical infrastructure. Arab Times reported that authorities have issued a fresh reminder to the public about the consequences of noncompliance as drone usage increases for both recreational and commercial purposes. Officials noted that unauthorized flights have previously hovered over houses and sensitive locations, prompting the reinforced warning.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation guidelines, drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered and operators often need pilot certification for commercial work. Flights are restricted to daytime hours under visual meteorological conditions within visual line of sight, while maintaining specified distances from people and objects based on the drone category. These provisions, drawn from the authority’s regulatory framework, seek to uphold aviation safety standards across the emirate.
Arab Times reported that violators of the drone rules face penalties of up to KD 5,000 in fines or three years in jail, or both measures at the court’s discretion. The Interior Ministry has collaborated with the civil aviation body on enforcement, particularly after incidents involving illicit drone activities. A 2016 statement by the Interior Ministry undersecretary first highlighted the prohibition on flying over personal properties without permits.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation data shows that permit applications have risen in recent years alongside growing interest in drone technology for events, filming and logistics. Regional comparisons from GCC aviation regulators place Kuwait’s penalties in line with neighboring states that also impose significant fines and potential imprisonment for breaches near airports or government buildings. No flights are allowed over oil fields, refineries or other restricted zones without explicit clearance.
Operators must obtain ministerial approval before any use, including at weddings or similar gatherings, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation protocol. Equipment can be confiscated in addition to financial or custodial penalties when violations occur. The authority maintains that all commercial users require dedicated permits while recreational flights remain heavily constrained for security reasons.
