In a significant step towards the future of urban transportation, Dubai has officially started building its first flying taxi port, known as a “vertiport,” located near Dubai International Airport (DXB). Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, announced this development on X (formerly Twitter), revealing that the vertiport is set to be fully operational and accessible to the public by 2026.
The DXB Vertiport will cover an area of 3,100 square meters and is designed to handle 42,000 landings while accommodating 170,000 passengers each year. In its initial phase, vertiport stations will be strategically placed in key areas such as Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina, providing quick aerial connections between important urban locations.
This initiative highlights Dubai’s dedication to advancing mobility solutions and alleviating urban congestion. By utilizing aerial taxis created by Joby Aviation and Skyports Infrastructure, the city aims to offer a new, efficient transit option for both residents and visitors. The vertiport network will improve connectivity throughout Dubai, making it the first city in the Middle East to introduce flying taxis to the public.
As the project progresses, Dubai is poised to set a global standard in aerial mobility, integrating flying taxis into its urban transport system by the first quarter of 2026. This endeavor emphasizes Dubai’s goal to lead in smart city innovation and promote environmental sustainability.
