Dubai to become first city with electric aerial taxi service

The UAE leaders witnessed the signing of an agreement to launch an aerial taxi service in Dubai by 2026, making it the first city in the world with a commercial, city-wide service and vertiport network.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, were present at the signing ceremony that took place ahead of the World Governments Summit (WGS).

The Joby Aviation S4 Aerial taxi - a five-seater, battery-powered taxi with six propellers - is scheduled for commercial operations in 2026 and can cover a maximum distance of 161km, with a top speed of up to 321km per hour.

It is less noisy than helicopters and its vertical take-off and landing capability makes it efficient for urban environments, eliminating the need for extensive horizontal space typically required for conventional stations.

The innovative transportation service uses cutting-edge technology to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of individuals within urban areas. 

The project is part of RTA’s future mobility initiatives, aimed at providing transportation services for both Dubai residents and visitors, and built in collaboration with General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Joby Aviation (Joby), and Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports).