The Peninsula, 19 July 2026: Qatar’s Ministry of Justice has published Qatar Law No. 10/2026 on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), establishing a comprehensive legal framework for drone operations in the country.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA), the law is designed to keep pace with the rapid growth of drone use, enabling individuals and businesses to benefit from the technology while safeguarding air navigation and national airspace. The QCAA will regulate UAV operations in coordination with relevant authorities and under national and international conventions.
Its responsibilities include issuing and renewing licences and permits, designating operational areas and maximum flight altitudes, regulating import and export of drones, overseeing compliance, specifying authorised airspace and flight routes, and setting environmental protection measures.
The law introduces administrative sanctions for violations, ranging from warnings to suspension of licences for up to three months, and temporary closure of drone‑related businesses for up to 15 days, extendable if violations are not remedied.
Severe penalties are also stipulated: violations of key provisions may result in imprisonment of up to seven years, fines up to QAR 300,000, or both, with mandatory confiscation of drones and equipment used in offences. Other violations may incur fines up to QAR 200,000. Legal entities and their managers can be held jointly liable if violations occur under their authority.
The law also allows settlements before or during criminal proceedings, provided violations are remedied and fines are paid according to a schedule annexed to the law. Importantly, drone owners are jointly liable with operators, pilots, and controllers for any damage caused to third parties or property.
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