Democracy Dies in Darkness
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The United Arab Emirates has banned the flying of drones in the country for recreation after Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed a fatal drone attack on an oil facility and major airport in the country.
As of Saturday, drone hobbyists and other operators of light electric sports aircraft face “legal liabilities” if caught flying the objects, the Interior Ministry said, adding it may grant exemptions to businesses seeking to film.
The Houthis, who hold Yemen’s capital and have fought a bloody, yearslong war with a Saudi-led military coalition that includes the UAE, claimed the assault. Although the UAE has mostly withdrawn its troops from the conflict, it continues to play a key role and provide support for local militias.
Government regulations in the UAE already restrict flying drones in residential areas as well as near, around and over airports. The civil aviation authorities usually require that drone users obtain a certificate.
