Dubai has approved the construction of its first aerial taxi vertiport, a groundbreaking step toward becoming the first city to introduce urban aerial transport. Located near Dubai International Airport, the vertiport will offer a unique, efficient, and comfortable travel experience for passengers soaring through the skies.
The project was authorised by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marking a significant milestone for the city. Spanning 3,100 square meters, the vertiport will include take-off and landing zones, aircraft charging stations, a taxi apron, and parking areas. It is designed to handle 42,000 landings and accommodate up to 170,000 passengers annually.
Built to meet global safety standards, the air-conditioned vertiport will be a collaborative effort between international partners: Joby Aviation, responsible for aircraft manufacturing and operations, and Skyports, overseeing the design and management of the infrastructure. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will oversee the project and integrate it with existing transportation systems. The service is expected to launch in early 2026.
The aerial taxi, Joby’s S4 model, is an eco-friendly electric vehicle with zero emissions, capable of vertical take-offs and landings. With a maximum speed of 321 km/h and a range of 161 km, the S4 can carry a pilot and four passengers, operating at much lower noise levels than traditional helicopters.
RTA Director-General Mattar Al Tayer stated that the initial phase will focus on four key locations, providing a fast, safe, and integrated transport solution for residents and visitors. This project is part of Dubai’s vision to enhance multimodal connectivity, seamlessly linking aerial taxis with other forms of public and personal transport like e-scooters and bicycles.
Earlier this year, RTA signed an agreement with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Skyports, and Joby Aviation to bring the aerial taxi service to life.