UAE bans flying of recreational drones after fatal attack – 9News

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.

Drone hobbyists and other operators of light electric sports aircraft face “legal liabilities” if caught flying the objects, the Interior Ministry said of the ban put in place on Saturday, adding it may grant exemptions to businesses seeking to film.
A drone follows a man riding a motorized surfboard in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
A drone follows a man riding a motorised surfboard in Dubai (AP)

A rare drone and missile strike on the capital of Abu Dhabi blew up several fuel tankers and killed three people last week.

The Houthis, who hold Yemen’s capital and have fought a bloody, years-long war with a Saudi-led military coalition that includes the UAE, claimed the assault.

While the UAE has largely withdrawn troops from the stalemated conflict, the country continues to be a major player and support local militias on the ground.

A man prepares to fly a drone over UAE national flags set up to celebrate the country's Flag Day, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
A man prepares to fly a drone over UAE national flags set up to celebrate the country’s Flag Day (AP)

The UAE said the Houthis targeted the country with bomb-laden drones and cruise and ballistic missiles, adding the country had intercepted some of the projectiles.

In response to the strike, the Saudi-led coalition has escalated attacks on the rebel-held parts of Yemen in the last week.

Government regulations in the UAE already restrict flying drones in residential areas as well as near, around and over airports. Drone users typically must obtain a certificate from the civil aviation authorities.

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