The service is set to become operational in Q1 2026. Credit: Svitlana Hulko via Shutterstock.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and chair of Dubai’s executive council, has approved the construction of Dubai’s first aerial taxi vertiport.

It will be constructed near Dubai International Airport.

This initiative positions Dubai as the first city globally to provide an urban aerial transport network. The vertiport’s contemporary design is intended to enhance Dubai’s cityscape and deliver a smooth travel experience for passengers.

The vertiport, covering 3,100m², will be equipped with specific zones for takeoffs and landings, a dedicated apron for aerial taxis, aircraft charging stations, and a parking area.

It is designed to handle approximately 42,000 landings per year, serving an estimated 170,000 passengers annually. The facility will also include air-conditioned spaces adhering to international safety standards.

Joby Aviation will handle the manufacturing, operation, and passenger logistics of the aircraft alongside Skyports.

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will oversee the system’s governance and integration with other transport systems.

This service is set to commence in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026.

The Joby S4 aerial taxi has vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, functioning as a zero-emission electric vehicle.

In addition to prioritising safety, comfort, and speed, the taxi features technology with six rotors and four battery packs, allowing for a flight range of up to 161km at speeds of up to 321km/h.

The aerial taxi, accommodating four passengers and a pilot, also produces significantly less noise than conventional helicopters.

Earlier this year, the RTA finalised an agreement to introduce the aerial taxi service in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Skyports Infrastructure, and Joby Aviation.

RTA director general and executive director board chair Mattar Al Tayer said: “In the initial phase, the aerial taxi service will operate from four strategic locations close to Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah.

“This service provides Dubai residents and visitors with a new, rapid, and secure transport option to key city locations. For example, a journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah is anticipated to take approximately 12 minutes, compared to 45 minutes by car.”