Dubai is set to launch electric air taxis in the first quarter of 2026, as confirmed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The air taxis will operate from four vertiports strategically located at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Downtown Dubai. These vehicles, designed to accommodate a pilot and four passengers, will reach speeds of up to 320 kph.
This means a journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah will take just 10-12 minutes, compared to the typical 45 minutes by car, according to a report from state news agency WAM.
Powered by Joby Aviation, the first vertiport for Dubai’s air taxi service is scheduled to begin operations in early 2026, said Khaled Al Awadhi, director of the transportation systems department at the RTA, during the World Congress and Exhibition on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS World Congress) in Dubai.
Al Awadhi described the project as a major leap in autonomous air transportation, aiming to introduce a modern and efficient way to navigate the city, with a focus on connecting major areas, hotels, and Dubai International Airport.
The electric air taxis will produce significantly less noise than traditional helicopters, generating just 45 decibels, which is quieter than light rainfall.
### Reducing Traffic Congestion
Tyler Trerotola, general manager for the Middle East at Joby Aviation, highlighted that the air taxis will help alleviate traffic congestion in Dubai. He emphasized that the service will reduce the travel time from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah to only 10-12 minutes, a significant improvement over the 45-minute journey during peak hours.
The new vertiports will be developed in partnership with air mobility infrastructure firm Skyports and will feature dedicated take-off and landing zones, electric charging stations, and a passenger waiting area.
Earlier this year, it was reported that the RTA signed an agreement granting Joby Aviation exclusive rights to operate air taxis in Dubai for a period of six years.
