Planning an aerial shoot or drone project in Amman, Aqaba, Petra, or Wadi Rum? Obtaining a drone permit in Jordan is a critical first step. Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC) and security authorities strictly regulate all unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In this guide, we break down exactly how to secure your drone filming permissions in 2026 without delays.
Quick Answer: How to Get a Drone Permit in Jordan
To legally fly a drone in Jordan, you must follow these steps:
- Prepare Equipment Details: Collect drone serial numbers, weight, camera specifications, and pilot certifications.
- Submit CARC Application: Fill out the official UAV permit application and send it to the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC) at least 15 to 30 days before flight.
- Secure Ministry of Interior Approval: CARC routes the request to the Ministry of Interior for security clearance.
- Pay Regulatory Fees: Pay the processing fees once the security clearance is granted.
- Bypass the Hassle: For commercial shoots, hiring a licensed local agency like Loyalty Drones is the fastest route, as they manage the complete permit process.
Current Drone Regulations & Laws in Jordan
Jordan enforces strict aviation laws under CARC Law No. 128. Unlicensed drone flights are strictly prohibited. If you attempt to bring an unauthorized drone through Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) customs, it will be confiscated and held until your departure. To avoid this, your drone must be pre-cleared and associated with an approved flight permit.
Key Flight Rules in Jordan:
- Maximum Altitude: Flights are limited to a maximum altitude of 400 feet (120 meters) above ground level.
- Visual Line of Sight: Operators must maintain a direct visual line of sight with the drone at all times.
- Daytime Flying Only: Drone operations are restricted to daylight hours unless special night-flying clearance is granted.
- Privacy: You must not fly over private property or crowd gatherings without consent.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Drone Permit
The application process involves multiple government bodies, including CARC, the Ministry of Interior, and Royal Jordanian Air Force. Follow these detailed steps:
Step 1: Complete the CARC Application Form
Download the UAV application from the official CARC website. You must provide your personal details, pilot qualifications, and drone specifications (manufacturer, model, weight, and serial numbers).
Step 2: Security Clearance Routing
Once submitted, CARC routes your application to the Ministry of Interior and military departments. This is a thorough background check and security clearance process. This step takes the majority of the processing time.
Step 3: Site & Schedule Validation
You must submit a precise flight schedule and map coordinates of your planned shooting locations. Certain locations, such as military bases, border regions, and royal palaces, are strict no-fly zones.
Application Processing Times & Fees
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Processing Time | 15 to 30 business days (varies by security checks) |
| Permit Validity | Specific to dates and coordinates requested |
| Tourist Approval Rate | Very Low (Almost exclusively reserved for licensed agencies/commercial projects) |
Drone Restrictions at Tourist Sites (Wadi Rum, Petra, Dead Sea)
Jordan features spectacular archaeological parks and nature reserves. However, special rules apply to these historical zones:
- Petra Archaeological Park: Drones are strictly banned from flying near or directly above ancient monuments (such as the Treasury and Monastery) to preserve the sandstone structures and protect tourists. Separate authorization from the PDTRA is required.
- Wadi Rum Protected Area: Popular for cinematic films, Wadi Rum flights require Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) approvals in coordination with the Royal Film Commission (RFC).
- The Dead Sea: The barometer-based altitude meters in commercial drones can malfunction because the Dead Sea is 430m below sea level. Calibrate your sensors before takeoff.
Hire a Licensed Drone Agency in Jordan (The Shortcut)
If you are an international production house, commercial brand, or construction company, navigating the local administrative bureaucracy can be overwhelming. The most efficient way to capture aerial footage in Jordan is hiring a licensed local production partner.
Loyalty Drones is a fully registered, licensed drone service provider in Jordan. We manage the entire permit application process, coordinate with CARC and the Ministry of Interior, provide professional licensed pilots, and supply state-of-the-art camera equipment. Get in touch with us today to schedule your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring a drone to Jordan as a tourist?
No. Unapproved drones will be confiscated at customs. Unless you have secured a flight permit in advance, you cannot bring a drone into the country. Confiscated gear is returned to you when you exit Jordan.
What happens if I fly a drone without a permit in Jordan?
Flying without authorization is a serious security violation. It can result in heavy financial fines, permanent confiscation of your drone equipment, and potential legal prosecution.
Does Loyalty Drones provide commercial mapping and filming permits?
Yes. Loyalty Drones holds permanent commercial flight licenses and coordinates with Jordanian aviation authorities to get project-specific filming and mapping permits for clients.
