08 July 2025

Dubai Completes First Regional Test Flight of Joby Air Taxi Ahead of 2026 Launch

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Dubai has taken a major step toward the future of mobility with the successful completion of the region’s first test flight of an electric aerial taxi. Conducted in partnership between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Joby Aviation, the test marks the beginning of a new era in urban air mobility, with commercial operations expected to launch in 2026.

Demonstrating Next-Gen Flight Capabilities in Local Conditions

The test flight took place at a dedicated desert site, where the Joby Aerial Taxi showcased its vertical take-off and landing capabilities. The goal was to evaluate the aircraft’s performance in the UAE’s climate and geography as part of daily flight operations preparing for commercial service.

Key Features of the Joby Air Taxi

  1. 100% electric, zero-emissions during flight

  2. 6 rotors and 4 battery packs

  3. Top speed: up to 320 km/h

  4. Range: up to 160 km

  5. Capacity: 4 passengers + 1 pilot

  6. Ultra-low noise, far quieter than helicopters

  7. Vertical take-off and landing for efficient use of space

Supporting Infrastructure Already Under Development

The test program includes infrastructure developed with Shamal Holding, such as a vertiport, aircraft hangar, advanced flight monitoring systems, and electric charging stations. This is part of a broader plan to integrate aerial mobility into Dubai’s urban ecosystem.

High-Level Support and Strategic Alignment

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the test flight and emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE’s sustainable development vision. He noted that the project aims to improve quality of life, attract global talent, and support Dubai’s goal of becoming the world’s best city to live and work in.

Travel Times Reimagined

According to RTA, a trip from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah will take just 12 minutes via air taxi, compared to around 45 minutes by car. This new mode of transport will be fully integrated with Dubai’s existing public transportation network, including metro lines, e-scooters, and bicycles — creating a seamless, multimodal mobility experience.

Commercial Launch Set for 2026

The first aerial taxi station is under construction near Dubai International Airport, with full commercial operations scheduled to begin in 2026. Dubai is set to become the first city globally to offer a fully operational urban air mobility network supported by dedicated vertical infrastructure.

What It Means for Real Estate and Investors

The introduction of aerial taxis will not only transform mobility in the city — it is expected to significantly boost the value of properties located near future vertiport hubs. Enhanced accessibility and faster travel will create new investment hotspots across Dubai.