Sheikh Hamad Al-Sabah: Drone Regulation Law a Step to Enhance Air Navigation Safety - Sarmad

The Chairman of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation, Sheikh Engineer Hamoud Mubarak Al-Sabah, affirmed that the issuance of the law regulating the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), light sport aircraft, air sports, and related activities constitutes an important and pioneering step for Kuwait, aimed at organizing these activities and enhancing air navigation safety in the country.

Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah stated on Sunday that the law is the result of coordinated government efforts to strengthen the legislative framework and complete the regulatory structure governing these activities, in alignment with adopted international standards and in coordination with relevant state authorities.

He expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the support of the political leadership, which significantly contributed to the swift issuance of the law, describing it as an achievement and a source of pride for the State of Kuwait in regulating this new type of aviation activity.

He also extended his thanks and appreciation to all the efforts made by government agencies, particularly the Ministries of Defense, Interior, and Justice, as well as the Office of Fatwa and Legislation, for their substantial contribution to finalizing the draft law.

He clarified that the draft law regulates the conditions for registration, licensing, permitting, and operation for the use of drones, light sport aircraft, air sports, and related activities. It also specifies the obligations, prohibitions, and penalties prescribed for non-compliant use.

He emphasized that regulating these activities aims to address the unregulated use of drones and light sport aircraft, and the resulting risks to air navigation safety, public order, individual privacy, and the safety of persons and property. It also addresses potential threats to airports, critical infrastructure, and restricted or prohibited zones arising from the misuse of such aircraft.

Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Sabah affirmed that the Authority will oversee the implementation of the law’s provisions, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, security and military agencies, and relevant government entities. This coordination aims to enhance collaboration among various authorities and ensure the organization of these activities within established frameworks.

He expressed his appreciation for the diligent efforts of the officials and technical staff at the Public Authority for Civil Aviation in preparing the draft law and fulfilling its requirements, in accordance with adopted international systems, thereby contributing to the development of the civil aviation system in the State of Kuwait.

Decree-Law No. 89 of 2026 concerning the regulation of the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, light sport aircraft, air sports, and related activities has entered into force as of the date of its publication in the official gazette, “Kuwait Al-Yaum.” The law aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework governing the use of these aircraft and safeguarding the security and safety of the country’s airspace.

The decree prohibits the use of an aircraft before obtaining approval from the Ministry of Interior. Violation of this provision carries a penalty of imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, and a fine not less than 1,000 Kuwaiti dinars and not exceeding 2,000 Kuwaiti dinars, or one of these two penalties.

The legislation establishes a comprehensive system for registration, licensing, and permits. No aircraft may be operated within Kuwait without obtaining an operation license from the Public Authority for Civil Aviation. Furthermore, piloting an aircraft or assisting in its piloting without a license is prohibited. Licenses are issued in accordance with Kuwaiti aviation safety rules and regulations, and after obtaining approval from the Ministry of Interior.