Dubai is set to become the first city in the world to launch a commercial flying taxi service, with operations scheduled to begin in 2026. The ambitious initiative has taken a significant step forward with the recent approval of the technical design for the emirate’s first vertiport.
Sky ports Infrastructure has received approval from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to move ahead with the development of its Dubai International Vertiport (DXV), located near Dubai International Airport. This approval marks a critical milestone in building the infrastructure needed for the air taxi service.
The DXV is the first facility to gain design approval under the UAE’s newly introduced Vertiport Regulations, showcasing the country’s dedication to advancing aviation technology. The vertiport will serve as a hub for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, introducing a new mode of urban transportation.
This project is a collaboration between Skyports, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and Joby Aviation. Together, they aim to establish a network of vertiports across Dubai, with the DXV being the first of four planned sites.
The GCAA’s approval process included a thorough evaluation of the vertiport’s design, focusing on its physical features, airspace integration, and safety protocols. Skyports presented a detailed plan for managing emergencies, including fire suppression measures for battery and traditional fuel-related incidents.
With this development, Dubai positions itself at the forefront of urban air mobility, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation. The flying taxi service promises to transform city travel by providing a faster, more efficient alternative to conventional road-based transport.
