United Arab Emirates 22^nd July 2026

The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has announced the approval of updates to two regulatory frameworks governing radio spectrum, marking a significant step in enhancing the UAE’s readiness to enable an advanced air mobility ecosystem, including air taxi services, delivery drones, and next-generation electric aerial vehicles. The updates include the adoption of the fourth edition of the Regulatory Framework for Aeronautical Radio Systems (4.0) and the third edition of the Regulatory Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Radio Systems (3.0). These updates align with the rapid technological advancements in the aviation and unmanned aircraft sectors, while ensuring the availability of an integrated regulatory environment that supports the safe and reliable operation of these technologies.

The updated frameworks provide the regulatory foundation and spectrum resources required to ensure the efficiency of communication, navigation, and air traffic surveillance systems supporting advanced air mobility solutions. This contributes to enhancing airspace safety, improving operational efficiency, and fostering innovation in the smart mobility sector.

This step is part of the UAE’s efforts to establish a comprehensive advanced air mobility ecosystem. The country continues to develop regulatory frameworks and supporting infrastructure for future technologies through a proactive approach that enhances its readiness to adopt and operate modern aerial transportation solutions, further strengthening its position as a global hub for innovation and advanced technology.

H.E Eng. Mohammed Al Ramsi, Deputy Director General of the Telecommunications Sector at TDRA, said: “The UAE believes that building the future begins with preparing for it. At TDRA, we continue to develop regulatory frameworks that keep pace with rapid technological transformations and enable innovation across various sectors. The update of the regulatory frameworks for aeronautical radio systems and unmanned aircraft radio systems is part of TDRA’s efforts to provide an advanced regulatory environment that supports advanced air mobility ecosystems and ensures the readiness of the spectrum infrastructure required for their efficient and reliable operation”.

This step reflects the UAE’s proactive approach in developing legislation and regulations that support future technologies, contributing to strengthening its global competitiveness and reinforcing its position as a leading destination for developing and adopting innovative solutions in aviation and smart mobility.

TDRA affirmed that the updated regulatory frameworks reflect its continued commitment to managing spectrum resources efficiently and enabling vital sectors to benefit from emerging technologies, in support of the UAE’s digital transformation and sustainable development objectives.

TDRA also expressed its appreciation to its strategic partners and relevant stakeholders who contributed their insights and feedback throughout the development and update process of the regulatory frameworks. TDRA emphasized that collaboration and integration among various entities remain key pillars in strengthening the UAE’s readiness for the era of advanced air mobility.