Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY) and Skyports had a busy couple of weeks in Dubai, a city whose leaders are working nonstop towards it becoming the world’s first city with a fully developed vertiport network for eVTOLs by 2026. An airshow, historic piloted flight, progress on vertiport construction with a “topping-out” ceremony, announcements of new vertiport locations, and even a friendly race between a Joby S4 eVTOL and a sports car were major highlights in Dubai during these past weeks.

The Dubai Airshow bought forth a perfect opportunity for Joby, Skyports Infrastructure, RTI, property developers, and other key players within Dubai to provide the world with a preview of the future of air advanced air mobility that will become a reality in the upcoming year. Once complete, this will pave the way for other cities and areas across the globe to catch up to Dubai and join the worldwide trend of air taxi services within an Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) framework. The first vertiport Dubai International Vertiport (DXV), will be completed in Q1 2026.

Video from RTI about featuring RTI, Joby and Skyports Infrastructure at the Dubai Airshow (watch below):

Why Dubai Is a Strategic Choice for Joby and a Catalyst for AAM Trends

Dubai is not just a launch city for Joby Aviation’s electric air taxi service, it’s a global proving ground that could set the tone for the entire Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry.

Government Support & Fast-Track Regulation

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has made AAM a strategic priority, awarding Joby a six-year exclusive agreement to operate eVTOL services starting as early as 2026.

Streamlined approvals: Dubai’s centralized governance allows faster infrastructure, airspace, and safety regulation approvals, which is something that’s difficult to achieve in countries with fragmented airspace authorities.

Public-private coordination: The government is working directly with Joby and Skyports to co-develop vertiports, ensuring seamless planning and integration.

A supportive regulatory environment accelerates deployment timelines and provides a model for other cities aiming to fast-track UAM and AAM services. In essence, while many other cities and communities around the world are serious about AAM, and would love to build vertiports and host air-taxi services, Dubai has both the financial means and political/governmental structure to “put their money where their mouth is” and cut through all the bureaucracy and red tape that unfortunately is a real obstacle in many other municipalities/communities around the world. It is with great hope that the tremendous success and example set in Dubai, which are thanks to their leadership, along with the efforts of Joby and Skyports Infrastructure, many lessons can be applied (in various ways) by communities around the world as the growing UAM/AAM/RAM global network branches out from these pioneering centers such as Dubai.

Joby’s Historic Piloted Point-to-Point Air Taxi Flight

On the 9th of November, a Joby S4 eVTOL took off from Joby Aviation’s test facility and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) base in Margham, and landed at Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai World Central) 17 minutes later.

“The successful completion of the first crewed flight of the electric aerial taxi marks a new milestone in Dubai’s distinguished record of leadership and innovation. The successful completion by Joby Aviation of the first air taxi flight between two distinct locations underscores the success of RTA’s operational framework for developing Dubai’s aerial mobility ecosystem. This milestone paves the way for a new phase of integration among smart mobility systems across the emirate, further strengthening the confidence of global partners in Dubai’s regulatory and technological environment and establishing it as a leading global platform for future mobility trials. RTA is steadily progressing towards the commercial launch of the aerial taxi service in 2026, solidifying Dubai’s position as the city of the future and a global hub for innovative and sustainable urban mobility solutions, combining efficient infrastructure with high quality of life.” – His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

“The air taxi service is part of RTA’s efforts to embrace future transportation technologies and offers a novel and efficient mobility option for Dubai’s residents and visitors, enabling fast, safe, and convenient travel to key city spots. This service will also enhance seamless multimodal transportation, improving citywide connectivity, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers.” – His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors for RTA

“From flight demonstrations to infrastructure, we’re making incredible progress on all fronts as we look ahead to launching commercial passenger service in Dubai next year. By working alongside the RTA, other government agencies and infrastructure partners, we’ve been able to streamline development of the world’s first air taxi service and are closer than ever to making urban air transport an everyday reality for residents and visitors across the UAE.” – JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation

Urban Design That Suits eVTOL Operations

Dubai’s sprawling, high-density urban layout with congested roadways and long intra-city commutes makes it ideal for vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.

Joby plans 12-minute flights from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah, routes that typically take 45–60 minutes by car.

Joby proved how efficient their S4 eVTOL air taxi is for traveling across Dubai through a fun “race” against a sports car driven by SuperCar Blondie’s Nik Hirschi.

See the clip below:

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A post shared by Supercar Blondie (@supercarblondie)

Tech-Forward Infrastructure & Energy Ecosystem

Dubai is heavily investing in smart cities, clean energy, and transport innovation, which supports AAM. Dubai is serious about vertiport integration with electric grids and smart mobility platforms. The leadership in Dubai is known for their embrace of autonomous and futuristic tech.

Global influence

Dubai is one of the world’s top tourism, business, and media hubs. Launching there gives Joby a high global exposure to travelers, investors, and regulators. Furthermore Dubai serves as a launchpad for regional expansion across the Gulf and South Asia. Dubai is also home to the annual World Governments Forum.

Strategic Partners and Key Players

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

• Founded on November 1, 2005
• CEO: Ahmed Bahrozyan
•  Directs planning and approval/requirements of transport, roads & traffic
• Taxi Corporation’s Fleet with 3,854 vehicles 
• Signed agreement with Joby and Skyports to build vertiports and integrate air taxi service in Dubai

Skyports Infrastructure

• Founded in 2018
• Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company
• Designs, obtains permits and builds vertiports
• Operates vertiport networks globally
• Technology
  • Landside terminal management
  • Airside resource management
  • Operational status supervision
  • Data integration

“The scale of impact excites me most. We’re not just building vertiports, we’re enabling a new era of mobility that’s faster, quieter, and greener. Technically, I’m excited about integrating smart energy systems that dynamically manage high-powered aircraft charging in space- and power-constrained environments.” ..“We’re pioneering solutions like DC microgrids, dynamic load management, and EMS-driven scheduling. But the real excitement comes from knowing this infrastructure will eventually make cities more connected, efficient, and liveable.” – Ali Ilyas, Head of Electrification at Skyports Infrastructure

“Working on charging station rollouts in a dense city like London taught me the importance of forward planning, stakeholder engagement, and flexibility in design. These lessons are critical in Dubai, too, where we are introducing high-powered, fast-charging Vertiports for eVTOLs in four high-demand locations under the patronage of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), that also encompasses multi-modal (including micro-mobility) charging facilities.” – Ali Ilyas, Head of Electrification at Skyports Infrastructure

General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)

• Created in 1996
• First in the Middle East region to introduce Satellite navigation (GPS) approach procedures for an airport (Dubai International Airport)
•  Audits all UAE aircraft operators, International Airports, and Dangerous Goods forwarders

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)

• Responsible for governing aviation activities within Dubai, UAE
• Presided by Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

Dubai Air Navigation Services (DANS)

• Responsible for overseeing air navigation services at Dubai International Airport (DBX), the world’s the world’s busiest airport for international passengers.

Dubai Police and Civil Defence

• Founded on 1 June 1956
• Commander in Chief: Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri
• 30,000 personnel
• Use of drones helps Dubai Police acheive an average emergency response time of 2 minutes and 24 seconds in the third quarter of 2023
• Joby S4 eVTOLs can help provide Dubai Police and Civil Defense with assets for road traffic monitoring, patrol/security, and rescue operations

List of Vertiports:

• Dubai International Vertiport “DXV”
  • Dubai International Airport
• Dubai Mall
  • The Downtown area
• Atlantis – The Royal
  • Palm Jumeirah
• American University of Dubai
  • Dubai Marina

Dubai International Vertiport “DXV” (Dubai International Airport)

Dubai International Vertiport “DXV” (near Dubai International Airport “DBX”)

• The first of 4 vertiport sites
• Central node of Skyports’ and RTA’s Dubai Vertiport Network (the world’s first vertiport network )
• Next to Emirates Metro Station 2
• three-story vertiport
• spanning 3,100 square metres
• 2 landing areas/booths
  • 1 GEACS charger per landing booth
• up to 10 landings per hour, with fast charging in between landings
• can serve up to 170,000 passengers per year
• Accommodate 42,000 aircraft movements per year
• designed to allow expansion for future growth
• Planned completion in Q1 2026
• Dubai International Airport (DBX) is the the world’s busiest airport for international passengers.
• 60% complete (as of Nov 2025)

“Vertiports are central to the success of Advanced Air Mobility. With DXV reaching this pivotal milestone, and further vertiport locations now confirmed with some of the UAE’s most prestigious landlords, we’re seeing AAM history in the making. Dubai is gearing up to be the first city in the world to make commercial AAM a reality, and it’s an honour to be playing a part in facilitating ultra-fast, zero-emission travel that will revolutionise the way that people move and navigate through urban areas.” – Duncan Walker, CEO, Skyports Infrastructure

“The progress achieved at the vertiport near Dubai International Airport marks a defining moment in our journey toward launching the world’s first aerial taxi service. This milestone reflects Dubai’s commitment to transforming mobility through innovation, efficiency, and seamless integration across all modes of transportation. Our objective is not only to introduce a new mode of transport, but to enhance the customer experience, offering faster, safer, and more seamless journeys across the city. With the support of our partners, and under the guidance of our leadership, we are developing an advanced mobility ecosystem that strengthens Dubai’s position as a global pioneer in future transport.” – Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency at RTA

“The aerial taxi initiative is part of RTA’s efforts to embrace future transportation technologies. The initial phase of the aerial taxi service will be launched at four prime locations: near Dubai International Airport, the Downtown area, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. These vertiports will stand out for their innovative design, featuring take-off and landing zones, dedicated spaces for passengers and security checks, electric charging stations, and integration with public transport systems.” – His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

American University in Dubai / Wasl Properties (Dubai Marina)

Dubai Marina

• The world’s largest artificial marina
• Reduces traffic congestion on Shiekh Zayed Road
• Close proximity to Bluewaters Island and JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)

American University in Dubai

American University in Dubai

• International Academic City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Established in 2006
• Chairman: Major Gen. Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi
• President: Muthanna G. Abdul Razzaq
• Colleges:
  • College of Business Administration
  • College of Media and Mass Communications
  • College of Security and Global Studies
  • College of Computer Information Technology
  • College of Design
  • College of Law
  • College of Education
• Institutions and centers
  • Language Learning Institute
  • Ryada
  • Technology Incubation Center
  • Counseling and Disability Office
  • Center for Educational Technology
• Vertiport
  • Will be located on parking of the university, managed by Wasl Asset Management

Wasl Properties / Wasl Asset Management

• Real estate management and development company
• Headquartered in Dubai, UAE
• Manages property (parking lot) of The American University of Dubai, where vertiport will be located

Atlantis – The Royal, Dubai (Palm Jumeirah)

Palm Jumeirah

• Known for its luxury residential communities and upscale resorts such as Atlantis The Palm.
• 12 minutes eVTOL flight between Dubai International Airport (DBX) to Palm Jumeirah vs 45 minutes by car

Atlantis – The Royal, Dubai

Atlantis – The Royal, Dubai

• Located in Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
• Opened on February 10, 2023
• 795 rooms
• 17 restaurants
• World’s largest jellyfish aquarium
• 102 VIP suites
  • 44 suites with private pools
• Managed by Atlantis Resorts
• Vertiport
  • Will house a vertiport on the premises

Dubai Mall (Downtown Dubai)

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai

• Notable landmarks:
  • Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building;
  • Dubai Mall, the second-largest mall in the world 
  • The Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain
• Downtown Vertiport will connect with Dubai International Airport (DBX), Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina

EMAAR Properties

• Headquartered in Dubai, UAE
• Net asset value of $48.3 B / AED 177.5 Bn
• Development Projects:
  • Malls
  • Real estate
  • Retail and shopping malls
  • Hospitality, and leisure
• Owner of:
  • Burj Khalifa
  • Dubai Fountain
  • Dubai Opera
  • Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall

• Located in downtown Dubai
• Over 100 million visitors annually
• More than 1,200 retail outlets
• Fashion Avenue
  • 150 luxury stores and eateries
• Souk Al Bahar
  • Over 100 shops
  • 22 restaurants
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
  • Thousands of aquatic animals
  • Over 140 marine species
  • 270-degree walk-through tunnel
• Vertiport
  • Located at mall parking lot

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa

• World’s tallest structure
• Construction start: 6 January 2004
• Completion: 1 October 2009
• Owner: Emaar Properties

Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera

• 2,000-seat facility
• Opened on 31 August 2016
• 250,000 audience members in 2023-24 season

Dubai Fountain

Dubai Fountain

• Largest world’s largest choreographed fountain
• 6,600 lights
• 25 colored projectors
• Dubai Fountain Boardwalk
  • Floating walkway
  • 9 metres from Dubai Fountain
• Dubai Fountain Lake Ride
  • Traditional wooden abra (boat) ride near the Dubai Fountain

In their own words:

“The United Arab Emirates is a launchpad for a global revolution in how we move.” …“In addition to building a performant aircraft, we’ve also been maturing our program for anticipated passenger service with global operational capabilities and scalable, durable manufacturing. Our flights and operational footprint in Dubai are a monumental step toward weaving air taxi services into the fabric of daily life worldwide. With our visionary partners, we’re igniting a future where quiet, clean flight is the new normal, and we’re demonstrating the leadership of American innovation on the global stage.” –  JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation (30 June 2025)

“We are delighted to have developed a vertiport concept for the emerging AAM industry, which will transform the way people travel in Dubai. The conceptual vertiport connects with Dubai International Airport and the Dubai Metro, to provide seamless, sustainable travel across the city for international and domestic passengers.” – David Summerfield, Head of Studio, Foster + Partners

“Dubai continues to lead the way in shaping the future of mobility, guided by the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This achievement also reflects our commitment to placing the UAE at the forefront of transformative technologies that drive global progress. Further, the successful aerial taxi test flight demonstrates our determination to transform breakthrough technologies into practical solutions that enhance quality of life and set new international benchmarks for urban development.” – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai (30 June 2025)

“The UAE’s air transport sector, thanks to our wise leadership’s directives, is witnessing continuous development in accordance with global best practices. What we are witnessing today is the latest milestone in our efforts to enhance the sector’s global leadership and competitiveness. The UAE’s air transport sector has taken a big leap forward at the regional and global levels by announcing the launch of the pioneering air taxi project. It is set to bring about an unprecedented transformation in the country’s urban transport landscape, making it more flexible and sustainable.” – His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority

Timeline:

2023

World Government Summit 2023 (February, 2023)

Ahead of the World Government Summit, Dubai’s RTA, Skyports Infrastructure, and Joby Aviation privately showcased a model of the vertiports planned for the city. The closed-door preview came just before the annual three-day summit that gathers government and business leaders from around the world.

World Governments Summit (WGS)

• Established in 2013
• Headed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai
• Mission:
  • “To become the global platform for shaping future governments”

A senior delegation led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, accompanied by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, received a presentation of the vertiport model. His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of Dubai’s RTA, unveiled an architectural model of Skyports’ planned vertiport near Dubai International Airport.

Joby Aviation, a global leader in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology—and the first eVTOL manufacturer to complete the second stage of the FAA type certification process—joined RTA and Skyports Infrastructure at the World Government Summit to showcase the potential of aerial mobility in Dubai.

“We are honoured to have received such strong endorsement of our Dubai vertiport vision from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed. The appetite for technology innovation and infrastructure expansion in Dubai makes it a hugely promising environment for the launch of advanced air mobility. We’re excited to continue working with the RTA to make our joint vision of an integrated vertiport network a reality in 2026.” – Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports (14 February 2023)

“The RTA’s plan for aerial taxis is in line with the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to make 25 percent of all trips in Dubai driverless by 2030. The project aims to roll out a new mobility service driven by pioneering technology to ease the mobility of individuals across urban areas in a safe, smooth, and sustainable manner integrated with the public transport network in Dubai. The service is set to be operational by 2026.” – Ahmed Bahrozyan, Chief Executive Officer of The Public Transport Agency at RTA (February 14, 2023)

2024

World Government Summit 2024

A landmark agreement was signed by the RTA, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Joby Aviation, and Skyports Infrastructure. The signing, witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum ahead of the World Government Summit, paved the way for Joby’s S4 aerial taxi to begin operations by 2026. The aircraft will operate from an initial network of four vertiports at key locations including Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. The initiative is part of the UAE’s push toward advanced air mobility, integrating cutting-edge technology with Dubai’s public transport system to provide a fast, safe, and sustainable travel option. Officials highlighted that the project combines innovative infrastructure, clear regulatory frameworks, and strong government support, offering a glimpse of a future where aerial taxis could transform urban travel while reducing journey times. For instance, a trip from DXB to Palm Jumeirah is expected to take just 10 minutes.

“The UAE’s air transport sector, thanks to our wise leadership’s directives, is witnessing continuous development in accordance with global best practices. What we are witnessing today is the latest milestone in our efforts to enhance the sector’s global leadership and competitiveness. The UAE’s air transport sector has taken a big leap forward at the regional and global levels by announcing the launch of the pioneering air taxi project. It is set to bring about an unprecedented transformation in the country’s urban transport landscape, making it more flexible and sustainable.”– His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority

“The General Civil Aviation Authority worked in cooperation with its partners to formulate the national regulatory framework needed for the implementation of this pioneering project. The Authority issued regulations for air taxis and vertical ports, thus becoming the first national aviation authority in the world to issue this regulation, laying the foundation for the future infrastructure of the air transport system in urban areas. The move will also create new investment opportunities in air transport infrastructure and smart transport in our cities.” – His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority

“It is an honour to collaborate with the Dubai Government to showcase the value of air mobility globally. The agreement encompasses the three crucial elements needed for the successful introduction of aerial taxi services: an aircraft with the capacity and range to deliver meaningful journeys, a definitive path to operations and well-placed infrastructure supported by dedicated partners. We are excited about offering an exceptional experience to both residents and visitors of Dubai and are enthusiastic about establishing a groundwork for extending our services across the UAE.” – JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation (February 11, 2024)

“The aerial taxi initiative is part of RTA’s efforts to embrace future transportation technologies. The initial phase of the aerial taxi service will be launched at four prime locations: near Dubai International Airport, the Downtown area, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. These vertiports will stand out for their innovative design, featuring take-off and landing zones, dedicated spaces for passengers and security checks, electric charging stations, and integration with public transport systems.”

“The aerial taxi service offers a novel and efficient mobility option for Dubai’s residents and visitors, enabling fast, safe, and convenient travel to key city spots. For example, a flight from the Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah is expected to take just 10 minutes, down from the 45 minutes by car. This service is also set to enhance the integration with various public and individual mobility means such as taxis, e-scooters and bicycles, thereby facilitating seamless multimodal transportation, improving citywide connectivity, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers.”

“RTA, together with Skyports and Joby, has carried out comprehensive studies for the selection of the initial four vertiport sites. Efforts are ongoing with the GCAA, the DCAA, the Dubai Air Navigation Services Corporation (DANS), and other relevant parties to establish the legislative and operational framework required to operate aerial taxis in the emirate. This regulatory and operational framework is the first of its kind in the world.”

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA

This agreement marks a significant step towards the launch of commercial aerial taxi services in Dubai. The industry has never been closer to making it a reality. This agreement brings together the key enablers of advanced air mobility: strong, innovative local leadership; a world-leading aircraft partner; and critical ground infrastructure integrated with the emirate’s existing transportation networks. The strategic positioning of our vertiports in key locations across Dubai will enhance connectivity and provide a faster travel option for residents and visitors. With the Definitive Agreement signed, now begins the exciting part: designing and building our vertiports.” – Duncan Walker, Founder and CEO of Skyports

Start of Construction of Dubai International Vertiport (DXV)

On the 12th of November 2025, Skyports announced the onset of construction of the vertiport near Dubai International Airport (DXB), now known as Dubai International Vertiport (DXV).

“Today is an exciting day. The shared vision of Skyports, the RTA, Joby Aviation, and the many government authorities we work with in Dubai and the UAE is now being realised as we begin construction and see the first vertiport come to life. In the coming months, we will continue to advance our efforts in Dubai while our teams diligently work on essential technology, regulatory, and operational preparations to ensure a successful launch on day one.”– Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports

2025

Dubai Flight and Operational Testing (Spring 2025)

Joby Aviation completed a major flight-test campaign in Dubai as part of its preparations to launch commercial aerial taxi services. The company conducted vertical takeoffs, wingborne transitions, and landings in extreme desert conditions, gathering critical data on battery performance, thermal management, and aircraft control in high temperatures and low-density air.

The tests, carried out in partnership with Dubai regulators including the RTA, GCAA, and DCAA, also evaluated operational infrastructure such as ground crews, charging systems, and logistics. These flights were witnessed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority. In addition, Joby established a maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) facility in Margham, Dubai to support future services, complementing the vertiport network being developed by Skyports Infrastructure.

According to Joby, the campaign’s insights will directly inform FAA certification and the global rollout of its S4 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, bringing the company closer to offering safe, fast, and sustainable aerial transportation for urban environments.

“Our Dubai campaign involved a team of Joby personnel, including our FAA-certified test pilots and mechanics, highly trained flight test engineers and technicians, and Dubai-based operators. Their ability to establish and execute efficient ground operations, charging protocols, and aircraft turnarounds in a new, demanding environment provided critical real-world data points for our passenger service model. These operations also provided essential real-time insight into our aircraft maintenance, engineering, and continued airworthiness procedures that are critical parts of the FAA’s type certification requirement” – Didier Papadopoulos, President, Aircraft OEM, Joby Aviation

“The launch of the air taxi’s trial operation reflects UAE leadership’s vision to advance sustainable and innovative mobility across all public and shared transport modes. It underscores Dubai’s commitment to keeping pace with rapid global transformations and developing future-ready solutions to emerging mobility challenges. The air taxi will introduce a new premium service for residents and visitors seeking smooth, fast, and safe travel to key destinations across the city. The service will also strengthen integration with public transport systems and individual mobility options such as e-scooters and bicycles, enabling seamless multimodal travel and enhanced connectivity across Dubai, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all passengers.” – His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority 

“The United Arab Emirates is a launchpad for a global revolution in how we move. In addition to building a performant aircraft, we’ve also been maturing our program for anticipated passenger service with global operational capabilities and scalable, durable manufacturing. Our flights and operational footprint in Dubai are a monumental step toward weaving air taxi services into the fabric of daily life worldwide. With our visionary partners, we’re igniting a future where quiet, clean flight is the new normal, and we’re demonstrating the leadership of American innovation on the global stage.” – JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation

“We are honoured to have received such strong endorsement of our Dubai vertiport vision from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed. The appetite for technology innovation and infrastructure expansion in Dubai makes it a hugely promising environment for the launch of advanced air mobility. We’re excited to continue working with the RTA to make our joint vision of an integrated vertiport network a reality in 2026.” – Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports

The Best Has Yet to Come!

The recent crewed Joby flight in Dubai and the “topping-out” of Dubai’s first vertiport (DXV) by Skyports Infrastructure and Roads & Transport Authority mark more than symbolic milestones, they signal that the city’s vision for a next-generation air mobility network is rapidly becoming reality. With the initial vertiport (DXV) at Dubai International Airport set for completion in early 2026 and additional sites planned across the city, Dubai is positioning itself to become the world’s first metropolis with a fully integrated eVTOL air-taxi system.

Dubai’s bold move is already sending ripples through the global urban-mobility industry, and showing that with political will, coordinated planning, and private-public partnership, the vision of everyday aerial travel may be closer than we think.

Yet these achievements are only the beginning. As regulatory approvals advance, operations scale, and the technology matures, the true impact of urban air mobility will unfold over time, reshaping commutes, improving connectivity, and redefining what fast, clean, efficient travel looks like in a modern city. The foundations have been laid (literally), momentum is accelerating (literally), and all signs point to a transformative decade ahead.

If the progress so far is any indication, the best has yet to come, and Dubai is poised to lead the way!

✈️ Stay tuned to eVTOL buzz for test flight updates, tech deep dives, and exclusive interviews as this story evolves.

More Info

Foster + Partners develops concept design for Dubai vertiport terminal: click here

Loughborough University: Alumnus Ali Ilyas leads revolutionary air taxi service in Dubai: click here

Joby Cements Global Lead in Air Taxi Industry with Dubai Flights and Beginning of Commercial Market Readiness Work: click here

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA): click here

Skyports Infrastructure’s design for vertiports approved in Dubai (February 14, 2023): click here

Mohammed bin Rashid and Hamdan bin Mohammed witness agreement to launch aerial taxis (February 11, 2024): click here

Skyports and RTA break ground on first vertiport in Dubai (Nov 12,2024): click here

Joby Cements Global Lead in Air Taxi Industry with Dubai Flights and Beginning of Commercial Market Readiness Work (Jun 30, 2025): click here

From Lab to Launchpad: What We Really Did in Dubai (Jul 28, 2025): click here

Successful First Crewed Electric Aerial Taxi Flight (Nov 16, 2025): click here

Dubai Air Taxi Network Takes Flight: Joby Completes Landmark Flight and Announces Next Vertiport Locations ( November 17, 2025): click here

World’s first commercial vertiport “DXV” reaches “topping-out” construction milestone (November 19, 2025): click here

Dubai Opera: click here

Wasl Properties: click here

Wasl Tower set to be one of the most sustainable towers in Dubai: click here

American University of Dubai: click here

Dubai Mall: click here

Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS): click here

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