Can airdrop photos be uploaded to iCloud

Not entirely sure what you are asking as your question is not very clear.

AirDropped photos are sent from one device to another. If you upload them to iCloud from the source device, then you would not be AirDropping them at all.

If they are being AirDropped, then after being AirDropped to the destination device, they are just like any other photo taken with your iOS device. They are placed in the camera roll, and are subject to being uploaded if iCloud Photo Library is turned on.

What exactly is it that you are attempting to do?

Perhaps this article will help:

Share content with AirDrop on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support