Drone Laws in Lebanon (2026): Permits, Rules and No-Fly Areas

In Lebanon, every drone flight needs a permit from the Lebanese Army. This guide explains how the system works as of October 2026. Rules change often here, so always check with the Army before you fly.

Who issues drone permits in Lebanon?

Drone filming permits are issued by the Lebanese Army Command (Directorate of Orientation), not by municipalities. There is no national drone register: instead, you apply for a permit for each filming job, with the places and dates you plan to fly.

• Cost: no fee has been reported.
• Time: allow at least one week, and apply well in advance for events.
• How to apply: by email, by fax, or in person at the Army Command. Check the official Lebanese Army website for the current contact details.

What you need to apply

• A signed request explaining the purpose of the flight, the drone and camera models with serial numbers, the locations and dates, and your phone number
• Photos of the drone clearly showing the serial number
• A copy of your Lebanese ID (or passport with entry stamp for visitors)
• Any pilot licence or drone certificate you hold

The situation in 2026

• March 2026: the Army suspended drone filming permits across Lebanon until further notice.
• June 2026: exceptional permits restarted for events only, such as weddings and cultural or sports events. You must state the locations and times in advance, and several events can be combined in one request.
• Ordinary landscape or tourism filming was not being permitted at the time of writing.

Before any flight, contact the Army to check what is allowed on your date and location.

Where you should never fly

• Over or near military bases, barracks and checkpoints. The Army can confiscate or bring down drones there, even with a permit.
• Near Beirut airport or any airfield.
• Over security facilities or government buildings.
• In the South and border areas, where a civilian drone can be mistaken for a military one.
• Over crowds, during fireworks or in clouds.

Privacy: filming people

Filming people who can be identified can fall under Lebanon's personal data law (Law 81/2018). Always ask permission before filming private property, homes, weddings or people, and don't publish footage of strangers without their consent.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to fly a small drone under 249 g in Lebanon?

Yes. Lebanon does not have a weight exemption like Europe or the US, so the permit rules apply to mini drones too.

Looking for a drone for events or weddings? See all DJI drones we sell in Lebanon.