The General Civil Aviation Authority has granted the UAE’s first certificate for operating drones within designated airspaces to Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans).
The U-Space Service Provider (USSP) certification is handed to firms to manage operations in specific airspaces through a suite of advanced, digitalised services designed to ensure safety, security and efficiency.
The certification allows dans, in collaboration with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects and ANRA Technologies, to develop a platform to manage Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) traffic in the airspace.
It will allow immediate flight approvals, integrates radar, weather, and aeronautical notifications, enhances conflict detection and avoidance, and will support future urban air mobility applications.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, said, "This certificate represents an important practical step in implementing the national UAS regulation. It reflects the GCAA’s commitment to supporting innovation while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency in line with international best practices."
The certification underscores the UAE's strategic intent to position itself as a global leader in smart air mobility and airspace innovation. It also enables the establishment of secure and efficient U-space airspace for drone operations in the UAE.

UAE will remain advocates of peace, not war: Gargash
Dubai Customs intel helps foil major drug-smuggling attempt
UAE sends three more aid convoys to Gaza under 'Operation Chivalrous Knight 3'
Dubai Health attracts 43,263 blood donors for ‘My Blood, for My Country’ campaign
UAE launches federal body for AI and data in push for 'government of future'
'Dubai Mallathon' enters second edition, transforming malls into fitness hubs
UAE denies media reports alleging transfer of funds to Iran
UAE, Mozambique Presidents explore stronger economic and energy ties
