An artist’s impression of the air taxi vertiport near Dubai International Airport. DUBAI MEDIA OFFICE

Dubai has officially launched the construction of its first air taxi vertiport near Dubai International Airport (DXB), marking a pivotal step in the UAE’s push for advanced urban aerial mobility. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince, announced the start of construction on Tuesday (November 12) via X, stating, “We commenced construction on Dubai’s first aerial taxi vertiport near Dubai International Airport.” Spanning an area of 3,100 square meters, the facility is designed to manage 42,000 landings and accommodate 170,000 passengers annually. The first phase of this aerial taxi project, which will introduce urban air mobility to Dubai, includes four strategic landing locations around the city: Dubai International Airport, Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. This ambitious project is projected to launch its services to the public in the first quarter of 2026. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has teamed up with Skyports Infrastructure, a UK-based pioneer in aerial mobility solutions, and Joby Aviation, a US-based aerial vehicle specialist, to bring the project to life. The initial air taxi model, the Joby S4, boasts advanced technology with vertical take-off and landing capabilities. This electric, eco-friendly vehicle operates with zero emissions, using six rotors and four battery packs to support a flight range of up to 161 kilometers at a maximum speed of 321 km/h, and can carry four passengers in addition to the pilot. Each vertiport will be equipped with electric charging stations, designated take-off and landing areas, and state-of-the-art passenger facilities to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. Skyports Infrastructure will lead the design and construction of the vertiports, while Joby Aviation will handle aircraft operations and manufacturing. The RTA will oversee the integration of this new transit mode with existing public transportation systems. Commenting on the project’s impact, an RTA spokesperson said, “Dubai is committed to reducing traffic congestion and travel times. The air taxi service is expected to cut the trip from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah to just 10 minutes to 12 minutes, compared to over 45 minutes by car during peak hours. This project underscores Dubai’s dedication to sustainability, safety, and next-generation mobility.” ICA/Expat Media
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