The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has renewed its call for full adherence to the longstanding prohibition on operating drones or conducting aerial photography anywhere in Kuwait. According to the authority, the measure covers both recreational and commercial applications and applies equally to citizens, residents and visitors. The DGCA noted in its statement that no individual may launch or use such devices without securing prior written approval from aviation officials and relevant security bodies.
This latest reminder from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation builds on earlier directives that first restricted unmanned aerial vehicles to address potential threats to national security and civilian privacy. The authority’s published guidelines require any applicant seeking an exception to submit detailed flight plans, equipment specifications and end-use declarations for rigorous review. Coordination with the Ministry of Interior forms a core part of the approval process, the DGCA added.
Regional aviation records maintained by the Gulf Cooperation Council indicate that member states have progressively aligned their unmanned aircraft policies with international standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization. Kuwait’s framework, the DGCA stated, reflects those benchmarks while incorporating additional safeguards tailored to local conditions. The authority continues to monitor technological developments that could influence future regulatory adjustments.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation warned that violations of the ban can result in immediate confiscation of equipment and referral to public prosecution under applicable laws. In its communication, the authority encouraged the public to report any suspected illegal drone activity through official hotlines or local police stations. Such vigilance, the DGCA emphasised, supports broader efforts to preserve safe airspace for authorised aviation operations.
Separate figures published by the Ministry of Interior document a series of enforcement actions taken against unauthorised drone users in recent years. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has integrated these outcomes into its awareness materials distributed at airports and border crossings. Travellers arriving in Kuwait are specifically advised to declare any drone-related items upon entry to avoid inadvertent breaches of the standing prohibition.
The current policy, according to the DGCA, will stay in place until an official announcement signals a change in requirements. The authority maintains an online portal where updated instructions and application forms can be accessed when exceptions are eventually permitted. Residents seeking clarification have been directed to contact the DGCA’s dedicated customer service lines for guidance.
