Drone Laws in Ethiopia

Flying drones in Ethiopia

Unfortunately, the current situation in Ethiopia is somewhat unclear to me because my source is no longer available on the internet and I can not find another source that confirms my latest information. These were my latest information:

Before the flight, you need a license from the Ministry of Communications. The permission costs $ 50 for photography and $ 100 for film-making. This permit must be organized locally several weeks in advance.

When entering the country, you must expect that the drone will be confiscated directly and will only be handed over again when leaving the country.

Overview: Drone rules in Ethiopia

Recreational use of drones allowed? Yes, after registration or approval
Commercial use of drones permitted? Yes, after registration or approval
Maximum Altitude:150 Meter (492,1 Fuß) in uncontrolled airspace.
Is drone insurance mandatory? No. Learn more about drone insurance here.
Does the drone need a badge?Unknown.
Drone labels can be ordered here
Is a registration necessary? Yes.
Keep distance to airports
Respect the privacy of other people

Also, in Ethiopia, because of the volcanic activity and related magnetic field differences, you should be careful to recalibrate the compass before each drone flight.

We have researched the listed drone regulations for Ethiopia to the best of our knowledge. We cannot guarantee the correctness of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the competent aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also ask the embassy in your country for further information about the regulations. Please leave us a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your copter in Ethiopia!

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About the author

Since January 2015, we travel around the world. In our backpack we carry a camera drone which we use to capture the best places from a bird’s perspective. First we travelled with a DJI Phantom 2. But now we use several drones like the DJI Phantom 4 Pro+ or the DJI Mini 3 Pro. On our blog we share the best tips for you about travelling with a drone. If you have questions about this article or new information, don’t hesitate to leave us a comment!

Discussions

  • Harpreet | 27.11.2017

    Hello Francis! Thank you for this very helpful blog. I was wondering if you have a contact in Ethiopia who can help with getting a permit for a small DJI Spark? Thank you so much for all your help.

    • Francis Markert | 28.03.2018

      Unfortunately, I do not have a contact in Ethiopia. I am sorry!

  • Steve & Russ | 04.05.2018

    We are a drone company registered in the UK and Tanzania we specialise in Aerial Surveying and Filming. Any knowledge or assistance of using drones in East Africa we are more than happy to assist where we can

  • Mekdes Mekonnen | 30.09.2018

    I live in Ethiopia

  • Stefano Marin | 02.02.2020

    Hi, I recently purchased a drone, the dji mavic mini. I am currently in Ethiopia for work with an Italian company. I kindly wanted to know if it was possible to bring it here and if there could be problems at the airport. I would like to use it mainly for personal use, taking photos and videos when I have free time, since it is a hobby of mine. Thank you

  • Zekariyas | 29.03.2022

    I am very interesting for build drowns

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