The bustling cityscape of Dubai is poised to witness a groundbreaking transformation with the imminent launch of the world’s first commercial air taxi service.
Dubai’s pioneering venture into commercial air taxi services is a collaborative endeavor between Joby Aviation, a trailblazer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the visionary Road and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai, and Skyports, a leading developer of advanced air mobility infrastructure. The partnership, which grants Joby exclusive rights to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years, underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and solidifies its position as a global innovation hub.
Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, JoeBen Bevirt, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with the government of Dubai, emphasizing its significance in showcasing the value of sustainable air travel to the world. Beyond mere transportation, this collaboration symbolizes Dubai’s dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing the future of mobility.
Joby’s revolutionary eVTOL aircraft is poised to revolutionize daily commutes within Dubai, offering swift journeys from Dubai International Airport to destinations like Palm Jumeirah in just 10 minutes, compared to the current 45-minute car journey. With a pilot and four-passenger capacity and cruising speeds of up to 200 mph (322 kph), these near-silent electric marvels provide a fast, convenient, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ground transportation.
According to His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors for RTA, the air taxi service aligns with RTA’s commitment to embracing future transportation technologies, offering a novel and efficient mobility option for residents and visitors. Seamless integration with Dubai’s existing transportation network ensures a smooth and connected travel experience, eliminating the hassle of switching between different modes of transport.
Joby has partnered with Skyports to design, build, and operate four strategically located vertiport hubs across Dubai, including key locations like Dubai International Airport, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Downtown. These vertiports will ensure easy access for residents and visitors, facilitating a seamless transition between air and ground transportation.
Furthermore, Joby’s commitment to local partnerships extends to infrastructure and talent development. The company plans to recruit most of its operational team from within Dubai, fostering local talent and ensuring a deep understanding of the city’s unique needs and regulations.
This groundbreaking initiative builds upon Joby’s impressive track record, backed by over $2 billion in funding from leading investors like Toyota, Delta Air Lines, and Uber. With milestones such as flying the first electric air taxi in New York City and establishing production facilities in California, Joby is poised to revolutionize urban transportation, starting with Dubai’s visionary ambition.