WATCH: After Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah hosts flying car test
RAK Transport Authority signs strategic agreement with XPENG AEROHT
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates has taken a groundbreaking step by granting a special flight permit to XPENG AEROHT’s electric flying car, the “Land Aircraft Carrier.”
The move allows the futuristic vehicle to conduct test flights in Ras Al Khaimah, positioning the country at the forefront of next-generation smart mobility.
The certification ceremony was held in Ras Al Khaimah and attended by Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and member of the UAE Supreme Council, alongside Chinese Ambassador Zhang Yiming and senior officials. Sheikh Saud presented the permit to Zhao Deli, founder of XPENG AEROHT, who praised the UAE’s innovation-friendly environment as the ideal hub for developing flying vehicles.
During the event, the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority signed a memorandum of understanding with XPENG AEROHT. The agreement focuses on certification, testing, and practical applications of flying cars, including their potential use in government transport, tourism, and emergency response.
Esmaeel Al Blooshi, Director General of the authority, noted that embracing Chinese flying technology bolsters the UAE’s role in the global smart mobility sector. He added that the collaboration aligns with low-carbon transport initiatives, offering the Middle East a model for sustainable innovation.
Vehicle design
The “Land Aircraft Carrier” is a fully electric aircraft equipped with a large intelligent display and a single-stick control system. It can operate in both manual and automatic modes. Its advanced flight control technology enhances safety, while its quiet performance and eco-friendly design make it ideal for urban environments.
The showcased model was demonstrated in Ras Al Khaimah, where attendees witnessed its smooth take-off and landing. Officials highlighted the car’s versatility, with applications ranging from tourism to emergency rescue operations.
Flying car trials in UAE
The Ras Al Khaimah test follows earlier trials in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In June, Dubai conducted the first test flight of a Joby Aviation flying taxi, while Abu Dhabi hosted Archer Aviation’s test in July at Al Bateen Executive Airport. Archer, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, is expected to launch commercial flying taxi services early next year.
The Ras Al Khaimah trial reinforces the UAE’s ambition to build a “low-altitude economy,” supported by forward-looking policies that attract leading companies in advanced transportation and green technology.
Sheikh Saud said the event symbolises the emirate’s drive to transform bold ideas into tangible achievements that enhance quality of life and support a resilient, diversified economy.