Dubai is set to revolutionize urban mobility and tourism with the launch of its groundbreaking air taxi service by 2026. Using state-of-the-art electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the service will provide a fast, sustainable, and premium alternative to traditional transportation. The project will not only enhance the travel experience for residents and tourists but also position Dubai as a global leader in advanced air mobility and sustainable tourism innovation.
The first hub for this futuristic service will be the Dubai International Vertiport (DXV), located near Dubai International Airport. Designed as a three-story facility, DXV will handle up to 170,000 passengers annually and feature two landing pads capable of managing 10 landings per hour. In addition to supporting eVTOL aircraft, the vertiport will also accommodate helicopters, ensuring smooth integration with existing aviation infrastructure.
The air taxis will connect key attractions across the city, including Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Downtown Dubai. For example, a journey from Dubai International Airport to Dubai Marina, which currently takes about 45 minutes by road, will be reduced to just 15–18 minutes by eVTOL. This remarkable time-saving will elevate visitor convenience, boost the tourism experience, and reinforce Dubai’s global reputation as a luxury travel destination.
To expand the network, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority is planning additional vertiports across major tourist and business areas. These hubs will link cultural landmarks, beach resorts, and commercial centers, creating seamless connectivity alongside Dubai’s existing transport systems such as the metro, buses, and taxis.
Sustainability is at the heart of the project. eVTOL aircraft are fully electric, offering a zero-emission solution for short-distance travel. This eco-friendly initiative supports Dubai’s long-term environmental goals while providing a smarter, cleaner, and faster way to explore the city.
