Dubai is planning to become the first city globally to introduce urban aerial transport by launching an advanced aerial taxi take-off and landing network. This initiative will include the construction of a vertiport that complements Dubai's urban landscape and promises passengers a unique and seamless mobility experience. The 3,100 square meters vertiport will consist of designated zones for take-off and landing, aircraft charging stations, a dedicated aerial taxi apron, and a parking area. It will have the capacity to accommodate four passengers plus a pilot, with significantly reduced noise levels compared to traditional helicopters.
During a presentation attended by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Crown Prince of Dubai, the contemporary design of the vertiport was showcased, emphasizing its reflection of Dubai's iconic urban aesthetic. Matnar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, announced that the aerial taxi service will initially operate from four strategic locations near Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. It is estimated that the vertiport, with a capacity for around 42,000 landings per year, will serve approximately 170,000 riders annually.
The aerial taxi service is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026, and the journey between Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah is projected to take just 12 minutes, a significant time reduction compared to the 45-minute car ride. The project aims to promote multimodal transport by integrating with public transport modes, e-scooters, and bicycles to enhance city-wide connectivity and provide a smooth travel experience for passengers.
The aerial taxi to be used, the Joby S4, is an advanced vehicle capable of vertical take-off and landing. It is an eco-friendly electric vehicle with zero emissions, known for its safety, speed, and comfort. The aircraft incorporates advanced technology with six rotors and four battery packs, enabling a flight range of up to 161 kilometers at a maximum speed of 321 km/h. Joby Aviation, in collaboration with Skyports, will manage the aircraft manufacturing, operations, and passenger movement, while RTA will oversee governance and integration with other transport modes.
The vertiport will be equipped with air-conditioned facilities that meet the highest global safety standards to provide a secure and comfortable experience for passengers.
