A prototype of Dubai's aerial taxi. ARCHIVE

Dubai flying taxis to take off in 2026, RTA chief projects

Flying taxis will become a reality in Dubai in the next three years, the ruler of Dubai has revealed. “From the World Government Summit, we approved today the design of the new air taxi stations in Dubai, which will start operating within three years,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rasahid Al Maktoum said on Twittter. The World Government Summit begins on Monday (February 13) and runs until February 15, welcoming government officials and heads of state to Dubai. On Sunday, Sheikh Mohammed approved models of aerial taxi vertiports developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approves models of aerial taxi vertiports developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said that the aerial taxi operations project is set to be operational by 2026, but cautioned that “the launch of the service hinges upon the preparedness of the companies and the legislative requirements for operating aerial taxis.” The initial network of vertiports will connect four main areas of Dubai: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa area), Dubai Marina, Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah, Al Tayer said. The vertiports will have range of facilities such as designated take-off and landing zones, a passenger waiting area, security protocols, and electric charging stations.

First flying taxi vertiport to open near Dubai airport

Sheikh Mohammed approved the prototype design of the first aerial taxi vertiport to be located near the Dubai International Airport, which will be seamlessly integrated with various modes of mass transportation. The vertiport comprises a structure that features two levels for car parking. The topmost roof serves as the terminal for aerial taxis, which will be connected to the Dubai Metro station via an air-conditioned bridge. The vertiport comprises four stands for aerial taxis and two landing areas.

What makes Dubai flying taxis unique?

Aerial taxis can do a vertical takeoff and landing and are sustainable, eco-friendly vehicles powered by electricity, emitting zero harmful pollutants to the environment. The taxis are also recognised for their safety, comfort, and speed, featuring the latest technological advancements in the field from around the world. With a range of 241.4 kilometres and a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the aerial taxi can accommodate up to four passengers plus a driver. The RTA’s aerial taxi initiative aligns with the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy, aimed at transforming 25 percent of total mobility journeys in Dubai into driverless journeys by 2030. In 2017, the RTA showcased its autonomous aerial taxi at the World Government Summit. Also in the same year, the trial run was initiated for the first test flight of an air taxi capable of carrying two passengers.
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