Dubai RTA Air Taxis Expected to Take Off in Q1 2026
Dubai is set to revolutionise urban mobility with the introduction of fully electric air taxis, a key component of its advanced air mobility (AAM) initiatives, expected to launch as early as 2026.
At the World Congress and Exhibition on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS World Congress), held in Dubai from 16th to 20th September, H.E. Khaled Al Awadhi, Director of the Transportation Systems Department at the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), announced that the first of four planned vertiports for the city’s air taxi service is scheduled to commence operations in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026.
These vertiports will be strategically situated at Dubai International Airport, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Downtown, enhancing connectivity and streamlining access to major landmarks, hotels, and the airport.
Innovative Design and Rapid Travel
The air taxis, developed by the US-based electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer Joby Aviation, are set to revolutionise urban transport.
These taxis will provide swift, safe mobility, alleviating traffic congestion and offering passengers a unique aerial view of the city.
Operating from the strategically located vertiports, these aircraft will carry a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 320 km/h.
For instance, a journey from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Palm Jumeirah will take just 10-12 minutes, a significant improvement over the 45-minute drive by car.
Moreover, Skyports Infrastructure, a leading company in the Advanced Air Mobility industry, will develop the vertiport infrastructure.
During the World Government Summit in February, Skyports signed a Definitive Agreement with Dubai’s RTA and Joby Aviation to ensure the successful rollout of passenger air taxi services by 2026.
In addition, Joby Aviation has recently submitted a letter of intent to the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), seeking certification as an air taxi operator in the country.