Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, announced the news on his official X account. He described the achievement as a “major step” toward launching a fully operational aerial taxi service next year. The announcement drew global attention and positioned Dubai at the forefront of urban air mobility innovation.
The Joby aircraft is an all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. It can carry four passengers and a pilot, traveling at speeds of up to 320 km/h. With a range of around 240 kilometers per charge, the aircraft is designed for short urban and regional flights. As a result, it can cut journey times drastically compared to traditional road transport.
In addition, the vehicle is designed to operate with minimal noise, making it more suitable for densely populated city centers. This approach supports Dubai’s smart mobility strategy and aligns with the UAE’s sustainability goals. By focusing on electric aviation, the city aims to reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions at the same time.
“Our nation’s skies have opened to new possibilities, and the best is yet to come,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
This trial also highlights Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for future-forward transportation. The emirate has already invested in autonomous vehicles, advanced metro systems, and AI-driven transport solutions. Adding aerial taxis strengthens this vision and offers a clear glimpse of how residents and visitors may commute in the near future.
Looking ahead, Dubai plans to roll out the service in phases by 2026. If successful, the project will introduce a faster, cleaner, and more efficient way of moving around the city. Ultimately, the aerial taxi service could reshape urban travel, turning futuristic concepts into everyday reality.
