Drone laws in Kuwait
Verfasst von Francis Markert | Last update on 24.03.2026 | 0 Kommentare
In this article, we explain the rules that apply to drone pilots in Kuwait.
The currently valid regulations have been in force since January 2020. At the beginning of 2026, the DGCA was replaced by the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA).
In general, foreign drone pilots can also obtain a permit; however, for aerial photography you must first obtain security clearance from PACA.
Importing drones without prior approval is prohibited. As Kuwait International Airport is known for strict baggage checks regarding drones, you should make sure to obtain all necessary permits before entering the country. Otherwise, your drone will be confiscated by customs.
Overview: Drone rules in Kuwait
Drone labels can be ordered here
Drones must be registered with the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA). Exception: Drones weighing less than 300 grams used for recreational purposes.
Additional rules for drone pilots in Kuwait
In Kuwait, drones are classified according to weight and purpose of the flight. Separate regulations have been established for each category:
| Category | A1 | A2 | A3 | B1 | B2 | C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Recreational | Recreational | Recreational | Professional | Professional | Special |
| Weight | < 300 g | 300 g – 5 kg | > 5 – 25 kg | 0 – 150 kg | 0 – 150 kg | > 150 kg |
| Class | Toy | Sport | Advanced sport activity | Non-commercial | Commercial | Special |
| Registration | exempt | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Insurance | exempt | yes, 10,000 KWD | yes, 10,000 KWD | yes, 20,000 KWD | yes, 20,000 KWD | yes, 30,000 KWD |
| Labeling | exempt | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Unmanned Operator Certificate (UOC) | exempt | exempt | apply to DGCA | apply to DGCA | apply to DGCA | apply to DGCA |
| Flight altitude | 50 m | 100 m | 100 m | 120 m | 120 m | 150 m |
| Horizontal distance drone – pilot | 50 m | 120 m | 120 m | 250 m | 250 m | 250 m |
| Aerial photography | only with permission | only with permission | only with permission | only with permission | only with permission | only with permission |
Registration is carried out with PACA and is linked to approved insurance. Unfortunately, so far we have only found the sample forms that are attached to the legal text (from page 45).
To obtain a UOC, foreign pilots can have their certificate from their home country recognized. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days in advance.
Safety distances and flight restrictions
Drone flights in Kuwait are only permitted in good weather conditions, during the day, and within visual line of sight.
The maximum distances between drone and pilot depend on the category; you can find them in the table above. The following safety distances apply to people and objects:
- Category A1 and A2: 120 meters
- Category A3, B1 and B2: 50 meters
- Category C: 100 meters
Flying over oil fields, ports, and military installations is strictly prohibited.
The drone regulations for Kuwait listed here have been researched to the best of our knowledge. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the responsible aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also contact the embassy of the country in your home country for further information on the regulations. Please leave us a comment if you have any updates and/or have had your own experiences flying a drone in Kuwait!
