New CAA Drone Sales Regulations: Key Implications for Businesses in Oman’s Emerging Drone Market
Oman Implements Comprehensive Regulations for Drone Market
The Sultanate of Oman is making significant strides in securing its national airspace and formalizing the burgeoning market for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). On February 17, 2026, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issued a circular introducing a detailed regulatory framework for the sale and registration of drones. These new measures aim to enhance safety, safeguard national security, and instill consumer confidence within the domestic market.
New Requirements for Retailers
Under the recent directives, all drone retail establishments must meet specific accreditation criteria to operate legally. Businesses are now required to include “drone sales activity” in their official commercial registrations and obtain a specialized license from the CAA.
Authorized sellers are also mandated to manage their inventory through the AirPortal system. This digital platform enables retailers to register drones from the point of import to the end user. The CAA has made it clear that retailers are prohibited from transferring any aircraft to buyers until the digital ownership transfer is complete.
Guidelines for Buyers
For consumers, the verification process has been streamlined through technology. The CAA encourages individuals to purchase drones exclusively from authorized retailers to avoid any potential legal ramifications. The primary means of verification for buyers is the Serb application, a dedicated mobile platform for drone management in Oman.
A retailer is deemed “duly authorized” if they can transfer the drone’s ownership directly to the buyer’s account within the app. If the drone appears on the user’s Serb app immediately following the purchase, it is officially registered and compliant. Conversely, failure to complete this transfer indicates that the device is non-compliant.
Enforcement and Safety
The CAA has warned that any sale, trade, or operation of drones outside these approved channels could lead to legal action. By centralizing the registration process through AirPortal and Serb, the CAA aims to monitor and track all drone operations within the country, ensuring that all flights adhere to Oman’s aviation regulations.
As the drone industry continues to evolve, these rules provide a crucial framework for a safe and regulated ecosystem for both hobbyists and commercial users.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The recent regulatory framework established by Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses in the drone sector. Retailers must adapt to the new accreditation and licensing requirements, which could limit the market entry for smaller players but enhance consumer confidence in the safety and legality of drone transactions. Smart investors should focus on authorized providers and technology platforms like AirPortal and Serb, as these will play a crucial role in compliance and market growth in Oman’s burgeoning UAV industry.
