## Dubai Soars Ahead: City Approves First Aerial Taxi Vertiport, Leading the Charge in Urban Air Transport
Dubai is poised to become a global pioneer in urban aerial transport, with His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, officially greenlighting the development of the city’s first aerial taxi vertiport. This landmark project, situated near Dubai International Airport, signifies a momentous leap forward in Dubai’s ambitious vision for cutting-edge mobility solutions.
The vertiport is designed to be the world’s first fully operational network for aerial taxi take-offs and landings, setting the stage for an advanced urban air transportation system. This state-of-the-art facility, boasting a sleek and modern design that seamlessly integrates with Dubai’s iconic skyline, promises to deliver a unique and efficient travel experience for passengers.
Spanning an impressive 3,100 square meters, the vertiport features dedicated zones for take-off and landing, aircraft charging stations, an aerial taxi apron, and a dedicated parking area. With an anticipated annual capacity of 42,000 landings and a projected passenger throughput of 170,000, the vertiport will play a pivotal role in shaping Dubai’s future transportation landscape.
The project has garnered significant attention, attracting the involvement of industry leaders like Joby Aviation, the aerial taxi manufacturer, and SkyPorts, responsible for the vertiport’s design and construction. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed recently witnessed a presentation showcasing the vertiport’s advanced design, highlighting its commitment to passenger comfort and seamless travel.
The vertiport is designed with air-conditioned spaces and adheres to the highest global safety standards, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers. Joby Aviation, in partnership with international industry leaders, will oversee aircraft manufacturing, operations, and passenger flow management. SkyPorts will spearhead the infrastructure’s design, construction, and operations, while the RTA will govern the entire system, seamlessly integrating it with existing transportation modes.
The launch of the aerial taxi service is slated for early 2026, with its debut expected in the first quarter. The heart of this innovative transportation solution is the Joby S4 aerial taxi, an environmentally friendly electric vehicle capable of vertical take-off and landing with zero emissions. This advanced aircraft, engineered for safety, comfort, and efficiency, boasts six rotors and four battery packs, enabling a flight range of up to 161 kilometers and a top speed of 321 km/h. Accommodating four passengers and a pilot, the Joby S4 operates with minimal noise, offering a quieter alternative to traditional helicopters.
Earlier this year, the RTA forged an agreement with key stakeholders including the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Skyports Infrastructure, and Joby Aviation, paving the way for the launch of this transformative aerial taxi service. With its unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainable development, Dubai is set to redefine urban mobility, positioning itself as a global leader in aerial transportation.
