Here’s where Dubai will let you board its first flying taxis
New network links airport, landmarks, and major urban districts
DUBAI – Dubai is preparing to launch an extensive electric aerial taxi network in 2026, offering one of the world’s first commercial air mobility systems using vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
In cooperation with Joby Aviation and Skyports Infrastructure, the Roads and Transport Authority has confirmed four key vertiport locations that will serve as the initial passenger boarding and landing points across the emirate. These stations will form the core network that will connect major destinations, business districts, tourism hubs, and Dubai International Airport.
Each site was chosen for its strategic proximity to high-demand zones and its ability to support seamless integration with Dubai’s existing and upcoming transport routes.
Where they are
The primary vertiport near Dubai International Airport will serve as the central hub for passengers arriving or departing through the world’s busiest international airport. Positioned near major road links and public transport connections, the station will support rapid travel between the airport and some of Dubai’s most visited destinations. With the aerial taxi’s projected travel time of around 10 minutes from the airport to Palm Jumeirah, the vertiport provides a significant advantage for travellers seeking fast and reliable journeys.
At Zabeel Dubai Mall, Emaar Properties will host a dedicated vertiport within the parking area. The location supports the near 111 million visitors who annually visit the Dubai Mall and the surrounding Downtown district, including Burj Khalifa. With strong links to shopping complexes, business towers, and hospitality venues, the vertiport will support local residents and tourists seeking quick connections to central Dubai.
On Palm Jumeirah, the Atlantis The Royal vertiport will offer access to one of the emirate’s most iconic hospitality destinations. The location sits at the heart of the island, surrounded by hotels, luxury residences, beaches, and entertainment venues. Its positioning provides a practical route for aerial taxis carrying visitors from Dubai International Airport and other areas of the city directly into one of Dubai’s most important tourism zones.
The Dubai Marina vertiport managed by Wasl Asset Management Group will be located within the American University in Dubai parking area. The site was selected to serve the dense residential community and the entertainment district that attracts visitors to Dubai Marina, Dubai Internet City, and surrounding areas. Given the area’s status as a vibrant lifestyle hub, the vertiport aims to improve access for both residents and visitors.
What they offer
Each vertiport in the network will provide a fully air-conditioned passenger environment, integrated check-in zones, and charging facilities for Joby Aviation’s electric aircraft. The RTA confirmed that the vertiports will be designed to international safety standards and will incorporate boarding zones, taxi parking bays, and vehicle charging systems to support efficient turnaround operations.
Passengers using the aerial taxi service will benefit from short travel times, reduced congestion, and reliable zero-emission transport options across Dubai. The vertiports will also link to surrounding mobility hubs, providing access to micro-mobility choices such as bicycles and electric scooters, as well as connections to Dubai Metro and bus networks.
Who can use them
The initial phase of Dubai’s aerial taxi service aims to serve both residents and international visitors. Business travellers arriving at Dubai International Airport will be able to reach destinations like Palm Jumeirah or Dubai Marina significantly faster than by road. Tourists visiting the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, or Palm Jumeirah will be able to move between high-profile attractions quickly using the aerial taxi network. Residents in urban districts such as Dubai Marina will have new transport options offering fast links to business and tourism areas.
Joby Aviation’s aircraft will carry four passengers and a pilot, offering quiet operation and zero emissions. The service will support Dubai’s strategy to develop a smart, sustainable, and interconnected mobility system.
How it supports Dubai’s vision
The creation of these initial vertiports supports Dubai’s long-term plans to establish a future-ready transport environment that meets global standards for innovation, safety, and efficiency. The RTA highlighted that the network will complement Dubai’s public transport expansion, enabling multimodal journeys across the city. It also aligns with the emirate’s goal to integrate emerging technologies into its mobility framework and advance its position as a global centre for advanced transportation solutions.
The aerial taxi service is scheduled to begin operations in 2026, supported by the completed vertiports and ongoing trials conducted by Joby Aviation. These tests verify the aircraft’s compatibility with Dubai’s weather conditions, airspace requirements, and operational needs.
As the network expands, Dubai’s vertiports will form a key component of the city’s advanced aerial mobility system, providing convenient, efficient, and environmentally friendly travel options across major destinations.