Dubai Media Council and Civil Aviation Authority Collaborate on Drone Filming Initiative.

Dubai: In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Media Council (DMC) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the use of drones for media-related filming operations. This initiative is part of the 'Dubai From the Sky' project aimed at enhancing media coverage in Dubai by simplifying processes and expediting permit issuance, especially for events requiring timely coverage. According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, and Mohammed Abdullah Lengawi, Director-General of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. Al Marri expressed gratitude to the DCAA for its collaboration, underscoring the significance of empowering media professionals in producing high-quality content. She emphasized the council's commitment to supporting media professionals with the necessary tools to adapt to the evolving media landscap e and highlighted the creative potential of drone photography. Mohammed Abdullah Lengawi stated that the MoU signifies the DCAA's commitment to supporting vital sectors like media. He emphasized the importance of establishing a secure environment for media professionals to utilize advanced technologies, such as drone photography, to drive creativity and innovation in content production. He noted that media is a crucial platform for showcasing Dubai's cultural identity and achievements, and partnerships are essential for enhancing media content. The MoU prioritizes training media professionals in safe drone operation and simplifying licensing procedures to achieve excellence in media photography while safeguarding Dubai's airspace. The collaboration includes DCAA-accredited training programs for drone operators covering technical and safety aspects. Upon completion, selected trainees nominated by the Dubai Media Council will receive professional licenses in accordance with the Authority's standards. Additio nally, both parties will collaborate to identify suitable locations for aerial filming with drones, specifying permissible altitudes to maintain air traffic safety in Dubai. The MoU outlines the mechanisms to ensure effective collaboration and the achievement of shared goals. This partnership reflects the efforts of both the Dubai Media Council and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority to strengthen their cooperation and coordinate procedures for media-related drone operations, aligning with the Authority's role in regulating civil aviation and enhancing air transport safety in the emirate.