Electric air taxis developed by US-based Joby Aviation are set to begin commercial operations in Dubai by the end of 2026, according to Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Joby conducted the first test flight of its fully electric air taxi in Dubai in June 2025, marking a major step in the city’s plan to integrate aerial transport into its existing public transport network.

The Joby air taxi is an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that can fly up to 160 kilometres, reach speeds of up to 320 kmph, produce zero operating emissions, and even operate quietly, making it suitable for crowded urban areas

These features make it both environmentally friendly and practical for city use.

In early 2024, Joby signed an agreement with Dubai’s RTA, granting the company exclusive rights to operate air taxis in the city for six years. According to Al Tayer, Dubai plans to launch commercial air taxi services by the end of this year, with full-scale operations expected by the end of 2026.

The infrastructure for the air taxi project, developed in partnership with Skyports and other aviation partners, is expected to become operational by the end of this year. Al Tayer said the project has been refined through global platforms such as the World Governments Summit and is now ready for real-world deployment.

The air taxi service is expected to naturally reduce the traffic congestion, cut travel times, and thus offer a new premium transport option across the city.

Dubai will also begin operating self-driving taxis in the first quarter of 2026. Al Tayer said the project moved from planning to execution in just 10 months, following meetings led by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

A dedicated command and control centre has already been set up and connected to Dubai’s intelligent transport systems and telecom networks to manage traffic and communication in real time.

The RTA is also working to solve the “first and last mile” challenge, helping people travel easily from their homes to transport stations and offices. Dubai is testing autonomous vehicles with companies such as China’s Baidu in pilot zones before expanding the services citywide.

“These projects allow people to experience new technology in real operations and help turn innovation into real services,” Al Tayer said.

Al Tayer stressed that strong infrastructure is essential for economic growth and quality of life. “Infrastructure is the backbone of any economy. Without it, you cannot attract businesses or build strong companies,” he said.

He added that Dubai’s strategy is to turn ideas discussed at global forums into practical projects that improve everyday life for residents and businesses.