Dubai approves first Aerial Taxi Vertiport, aiming for 2026 launch

Dubai is advancing its reputation as a leader in futuristic transportation with the approval of its first aerial taxi vertiport, set to open in 2026. Located near Dubai International Airport, this vertiport will allow for quick and sustainable air travel within the city, aiming to ease road congestion and expand Dubai's urban transport offerings. The project has been authorized by Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marking a significant step toward Dubai’s goal of becoming the first city with an urban aerial taxi service. 

Spanning 3,100 square meters, the vertiport’s design will complement Dubai’s iconic skyline, offering an innovative and seamless travel experience. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated zones for take-offs and landings, passenger areas, and parking, the vertiport will have a capacity of 42,000 landings annually, potentially serving up to 170,000 passengers per year. 

Joby Aviation and Skyports partnership for aerial mobility 

The project is a collaborative effort between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and international partners, including the California-based company Joby Aviation and UK-based Skyports. Joby Aviation will provide the aircraft, specifically their Joby S4 model, a zero-emission, electric aerial taxi with impressive range and speed. Equipped with six rotors and four battery packs, the Joby S4 can reach a maximum speed of 321 km/h, traveling up to 161 km per charge. Designed for up to four passengers plus a pilot, it promises quieter operations than traditional helicopters, offering a less disruptive mode of urban air travel. Skyports, which specializes in advanced aerial mobility infrastructure, will manage the vertiport’s design, construction, and operations, ensuring that global safety standards are met.

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Dubai’s RTA will oversee the project’s integration with other public transit systems, contributing to the city’s multimodal connectivity vision. Dubai has recently made strides in connecting different modes of transit, including bicycles, e-scooters, and traditional public transport. The RTA’s director, Mattar Al Tayer, stated that this venture aligns with the city’s goal to provide accessible and efficient travel options for both residents and visitors. 

Focus on safety, sustainability, and efficiency 

Safety and sustainability are at the forefront of this new vertiport project. Built to meet global safety standards, the vertiport will include charging stations and maintenance facilities for the aerial taxis. The air-conditioned structure will prioritize passenger comfort while ensuring that each aspect of the service operates seamlessly. 

The aerial taxi initiative is part of a broader partnership between the RTA, the General Civil Aviation Authority, and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, alongside Skyports and Joby Aviation. Earlier this year, an agreement was signed to formalize these efforts and pave the way for Dubai’s vision of aerial urban transport. 

In the initial phase, the service will operate from four primary locations across Dubai, strategically positioned to offer residents and tourists convenient access to various destinations within the city. This project reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to diversify its transit options, underscoring the city’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovation in urban mobility.