Asia
Maldives
MCAA + MNDF — multi-agency permit for every flight
The Maldives apply a very restrictive, case-by-case regime, confirmed by the official MCAA page: there is no weight exemption threshold, and sequential approval from MNDF (defence), MCAA and, if applicable, the resort is required.
Tourist flying effectively not allowed
Every flight, even with a drone under 250 g, requires a multi-stage permit (Ministry of Defence MNDF, then MCAA, then possibly the resort) by email, with indicative timelines of 2-4 weeks: plan well ahead or forgo spontaneous flying.
400 feet, confirmed by the official source.
Not a registration in the strict sense but a mandatory permit for every flight, regardless of the drone's weight.
Zones to avoid
No-fly zones usually follow the same recurring categories (airports, military sites, protected areas, historic centers). For this country: Process: MNDF authorization, then MCAA permit, then possible authorization from the resort/local council — it is the operator's responsibility to obtain all authorizations.
Last checked: 2026-08
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Why registration exists
Here the threshold usually depends on the drone's weight or whether it has a camera: below a certain weight, often 250 g, many systems don't require registration for recreational use. Check the note above and the official source to see whether your specific drone falls under the requirement. For Maldives, the official reference remains Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA). Not a registration in the strict sense but a mandatory permit for every flight, regardless of the drone's weight.
Other countries in Asia
Informational content, not legal advice. Zones and rules change constantly: always check the country's official website before every flight.