09 October 2024

As a Maltese traveler, visiting Morocco offers an unforgettable experience, full of vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and rich history. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene sands of the Sahara Desert, Morocco captivates with its sensory overload, offering the perfect blend of the exotic and the familiar for someone from Malta. The architecture, the food, and the people create a symphony of sights and sounds that any visitor will cherish.

However, for those of us who enjoy capturing breathtaking views with drones, there’s a catch. You can’t help but wish you had your drone to film the ancient medinas, the towering Atlas Mountains, or the majestic coastlines. Unfortunately, Morocco’s drone laws make this dream a tricky one to fulfill.

Morocco’s Strict Drone Regulations

At the moment, drones are banned in Morocco. This means that if you plan to bring one into the country without declaring it, customs will seize it—and you won’t be getting it back. That’s a painful price to pay for overlooking a regulation.

If you do declare the drone upon entry, customs will hold it at the airport. The good news is that you’ll be able to retrieve it when you depart the country. However, this restriction puts a damper on capturing aerial footage of Morocco’s natural and man-made wonders during your visit.

Commercial Drone Use: A Tough but Doable Process

There is a glimmer of hope for drone enthusiasts who want to use their device for commercial purposes. While the process to obtain permission is lengthy and difficult, special permissions are available. If granted, the following regulations must be respected:

• Do not fly over people or large crowds.
• Respect privacy when using the drone in public or residential areas.
• Avoid flying over airports or where other aircraft are operational.
• Drones can only be flown during daylight and under good weather conditions.
• Sensitive areas like government or military facilities are strictly off-limits.

For commercial operators, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation must pre-approve the importation of drones, making it a legally complex process that requires planning well in advance.

The Allure of Morocco Through a Drone Lens

While it might be disappointing to not be able to fly your drone freely in Morocco, it’s understandable that the government wants to maintain safety, privacy, and security. If you’re willing to go through the administrative steps, you might just be able to capture the incredible Moroccan landscapes in a way that most visitors never could.

In the meantime, for tourists like me from Malta, we’ll have to be content with soaking in the beauty of Morocco through our own eyes—and perhaps leave our drones for future adventures elsewhere.