Dubai has officially set a target to launch its pioneering air taxi service by the end of 2026, marking a significant step forward in the emirate’s vision for future urban mobility. The announcement confirms the timeline for a project that will place Dubai among the first cities globally to offer commercial electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flights, a move spearheaded by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
A Landmark Agreement for Urban Air Mobility
The ambitious timeline is supported by a landmark agreement signed at the World Governments Summit, granting US-based Joby Aviation the exclusive rights to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years. This partnership provides the RTA with a clear path to commercialisation, leveraging Joby’s advanced eVTOL technology to build out the city’s aerial transport network.
The agreement covers all aspects of the operation, from regulatory frameworks to the development of a city-wide service. This strategic collaboration is designed to integrate the air taxi network seamlessly into Dubai’s existing public transport infrastructure.
The Vision for Dubai’s Sky Network
The initial phase of the project will see the establishment of four vertiports in key strategic locations across the city. These initial hubs will be located at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina.
This network is designed to dramatically reduce travel times between popular destinations. For instance, a journey from DXB to Palm Jumeirah, which can take up to 45 minutes by car during peak hours, is expected to be completed in just 10 minutes by air taxi.
The Technology Behind the Flight
The service will utilize Joby Aviation’s S4 aircraft, an eVTOL designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers. The all-electric aircraft is engineered for quiet operation, ensuring minimal noise disruption in urban environments, and can travel at speeds of up to 320 kilometres per hour.
As a zero-emission vehicle, the air taxi aligns with Dubai’s commitment to sustainable and innovative transportation solutions, positioning the city as a global leader in advanced air mobility.
About The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is the government body responsible for planning and executing transport and traffic projects in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Its mission is to develop and manage an integrated and sustainable road and transportation system that serves the needs of the emirate’s residents and visitors.
Source: Gulf Business
