SM UC-97 was a German Type UC III minelaying submarine or U-boat in the German Imperial Navy during World War I.

Type UC III minelaying submarines were used by the Imperial German Navy during World War I. They displaced 474 tonnes at the surface and 571 t submerged, carried guns, 7 torpedoes and up to 14 mines. The ships were double-hulled with improved range and sea-keeping compared to the UC II type. The type had better seagoing, maneuvering and turning capabilities than its predecessor, while underwater stability was reduced.