Report

UAE unmanned aerial vehicle market is expected to observe a CAGR of 14.42% during the forecast period 2024-2031, rising from USD 0.20 billion in 2023 to USD 0.51 billion in 2031. The government's growing attention on policy is one of the drivers propelling the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) business in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE government is increasing spending and enacting more rules because of realizing the potential advantages of using unmanned aircraft systems for a variety of applications. The primary reason for the increased interest is the necessity of improving security and surveillance capabilities. Mini UAVs are useful for monitoring high-security areas and border patrols. These unmanned systems give authorities with real-time data and imagery that enable them to make well-informed judgments and promptly resolve security concerns.
For instance, in January 2024, the UAE's Ministry of Defense spent USD 640 million (AED 971 million) on equipment, including UAVs and anti-drone guns, at Abu Dhabi's Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX). The Tawazun Council signed a deal for USD 576.4 million (AED 874 million) worth of UAVs and support from the International Golden Group.
Defense to Dominate the UAV Market
The UAE's military and law enforcement industry are expected to grow quickly due to modernization initiatives, territorial disputes, and security concerns. It is expected that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will be indispensable in intelligence gathering, aerial surveillance, and tactical operations. By acting as target decoys for combat operations, R&D, and monitoring, these UAVs stimulate military investment and market growth.
UAVs are also used for situational awareness and sensing. They can securely monitor threats or suspicious activities thanks to their advanced sensors and cameras, which also record high-quality images, videos, and real-time data. Applications include monitoring crime scenes, search and rescue missions, and border surveillance. The region's changing drone regulations and the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are predicted to drive this segment's expansion.
For instance, in 2023, UAE bought 100 unmanned aerial vehicles from EDGE Group for its military forces. The UAVs will support long-range operations and border security by offering round-the-clock information, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The EDGE REACH-S UAV's manufacturing and delivery supervised by ADASI.
Government Policies and Regulations to Influence the UAV Market
The expansion of the UAV sector has been considerably facilitated by the proactive regulation of UAVs by the UAE government. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) oversees enforcing the laws, which are meticulously designed to maintain a delicate balance between promoting innovation and operational safety. These thorough regulations lay a solid basis and provide direction and organization to businesses involved in the industry. They can flourish in a morally upright and law-abiding way because of this. The UAE's implementation of this innovative regulatory approach has effectively enhanced industry confidence and trust, drawing more investment and opening substantial market potential.
For instance, in October 2021, the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority of the United Arab Emirates declared the opening of a drone registration. This project will help small unmanned aerial vehicles be used more safely and integrated into the nation's airspace.
Rapid Advancements in Technology to Expand Market Size
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a prominent site for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations due to its advanced air traffic control systems and sturdy infrastructure. The seamless and secure integration of airborne technology is made possible by this strategic advantage. UAVs analyse data, optimize flight paths, and carry out precise missions by utilizing AI, machine learning, and cutting-edge sensor technology. Numerous sectors have been significantly impacted by these advances.
UAVs are revolutionizing harvest predictions, surveying techniques, and crop health monitoring in agriculture. Aerial deliveries and more efficient inventory management are advantageous for logistics. In the area of public safety, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are also essential for disaster response, search and rescue operations, and monitoring tasks.
For instance, in 2023, the EDGE Group developed the medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) known as REACH-S. Its intended uses include precision ground attack operations and advanced Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). REACH-S was showcased at the Dubai Airshow in November 2021 as a part of a broader line of drones. These drones will be utilized for increased surveillance tasks.
Dubai Holds the Highest Market Share
The UAE's unmanned aerial vehicle market is dominated by Dubai. Its growing popularity is a result of its deliberate creation, enforcement of laws, and aggressive use of drone technology. Abu Dhabi is the second-largest market, following closely behind. Further demonstrating the UAE's dedication to drone technology are initiatives like the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative and the use of drones by Dubai Police for emergency response. Responsible UAV use is guaranteed by following the guidelines set forth by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.
In 2022, The Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Department declared the deployment of two innovative, high-tech drones to extinguish fires in buildings as tall as 800 meters. While the other drone uses light missiles to clear any obstructions at the location of the event, the other drone carries a payload and thermal imaging capabilities.
Future Market Scenario (2024 - 2031F)
Drones are already being used in many industries for regular business operations, which is what is driving the growing use of UAVs for commercial use. In the United Arab Emirates, the UAV market is expanding thanks in large part to this trend. Further contributing to market expansion is the comparatively reduced acquisition and operating expenses of tiny electric-powered unmanned aerial vehicles when compared to manned aircraft (whether for tactical or commercial applications). Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) use in the UAE is expected to develop rapidly in the next years due to the country's policies and regulatory frameworks that have been put in place to support UAV use.
For instance, in December 2023, the Federal Government of UAE issued a Cabinet Resolution to broaden the regulations governing unmanned aircraft, including drones, throughout all emirates and free zones. In accordance with the Federal Decree by Law No. (26) of 2022, the resolution covers regulatory compliance, certification, documentation, and duties for manufacturers and importers.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
The growing need for both military and commercial applications is expected to propel the unmanned aerial vehicle market in the United Arab Emirates to substantial growth. Major competitors in the industry are making significant R&D investments to improve UAV capabilities, concentrating on technical developments such improved endurance and accuracy. Regulatory organizations that actively participate in developing regulations that promote the market's growth include the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
For instance, in 2022, BAE Systems designed and constructed the flight control computer for Supernal's Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) vehicle. BAE Systems will create the architectural foundation for a small fly-by-wire system for its air taxis. The aircraft will be safely and successfully steered in the air using fly-by-wire controls.