Recreational drones banned in United Arab Emirates after oil facility attack

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Consumer drones have been banned by the United Arab Emirates. A suspected drone attack hit an oil facility and airport in Abu Dhabi last week.

Light aircraft like gliders are banned by the Ministry of the Interior. The ministry did not mention the recent attacks in its statement, but it did mention recent incidents of drones being flown in areas where they are not allowed, and a need to ensure the safety of lives and property.

The attack involved missiles and drones.

The recent attack on the oil facility and airport in Abu Dhabi reportedly involved both missiles and drones, though it is not clear what the size and model of these drones were. The attacks were claimed by the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group, which currently controls large portions of nearby Yemen and is fighting a coalition of forces supported by Arab countries.

Small drones have been used in attacks on Arab nations by the rebels. The strike last week was an increase in tension. It is the first time that such attacks have been acknowledged by the U.S., and it is the first time that they have been fatal.

The United States withdrew its forces from Yemen in 2019. The country wants to be seen as a bastion of stability in the region and has been shifting diplomatic relations in recent years. The strikes by drones and missiles are frightening.

A ban on recreational drone use may help keep the skies under control. The country restricts flights in residential areas and near airports. If the necessary exceptions and permits are obtained, exceptions may be made for work contracts or commercial or advertising projects that rely on filming using drones.