Flying Taxi’s The Most Creative Invention For Dubai: 2026 | |
Sumita Pawar |
According to the media, Dubai’s flying taxis are set to take off in the city by 2026 with designs already approved for the upcoming transport’s vertiports.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai approved models of stations for the aerial taxi ports being developed by the RTA.
Sheikh Mohammed announced Dubai’s flying taxi plan, following a visit to the World Government Summit 2023.
Commenting on Dubai flying taxi’s port design report mentioned, now, the first images of flying taxi stations, known as vertiports, in Dubai have been released.
The images, show artist impressions of the interiors and exteriors of planned vertiports in Dubai.
Sheikh Mohammed was briefed about potential partners identified by the RTA to operate and invest in the infrastructure required to bring the aerial taxi project to fruition.
He was also briefed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, on the latest updates to the aerial taxi operations project.
The project aims to roll out a new mobility service driven by pioneering technology to ease the mobility of individuals across urban areas in a safe, smooth and sustainable manner integrated with the public transport network in Dubai, highlighted the report.
Talking about the service of taxi which is going to be operated by 2026 the report mentioned, “The initial phase encompasses choosing both manufacturers and operators based on their technology and timeline, as well as determining the sites for vertiport installations.
“The initial network of vertiports will connect four main areas of Dubai: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa area), Dubai Marina, Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah,” said Al Tayer.
“Vertiports embody a revolutionary form of infrastructure that encompasses a range of facilities such as designated take-off and landing zones, a passenger waiting area, security protocols, and electric charging stations.
“These stations seamlessly integrate with other modes of transportation. The next step involves identifying exceptional investors who are experts in building the necessary infrastructure for the air mobility industry,” he added.
According to the report, Sheikh Mohammed approved the prototype design of the first aerial taxi vertiport to be located near the Dubai International Airport, which will be seamlessly integrated with various modes of mass transportation.
The vertiport comprises a structure that features two levels for car parking. The topmost roof serves as the terminal for aerial taxis, which will be connected to the Emirates Metro Station via an air-conditioned bridge.
The vertiport boasts a contemporary design that complements the general appearance and charm of Dubai.
“The second stage involves identifying a potential partner for investing in the infrastructure needed to introduce autonomous aerial taxis to Dubai’s skies.
According to Altayer,“At present, commercial negotiations are in progress with the most promising and specialised investors globally in the realm of air mobility to construct the requisite infrastructure.
“The launch of the service hinges upon the preparedness of the companies and the legislative requirements for operating aerial taxis.
“This also involves a thorough examination of all operational details and ensuring that all safety and security measures are in place,” Al Tayer said.
According to the reports, “The RTA’s aerial taxi initiative aligns with the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy, aimed at transforming 25 percent of total mobility journeys in Dubai into driverless journeys by 2030.
“The RTA is working closely with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, General Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Air Navigation Services to create a one-of-a-kind comprehensive framework for the operation of such vehicles in Dubai.
“This includes the development of legislation and setting clear specifications and standards for vehicle operators. RTA, in collaboration with its strategic partners, outlines the flight paths for the vehicles, identifies take-off and landing sites, and specifies the necessary equipment for safe and efficient operations,” Al Tayer said.
Aerial taxis possess the unique capability of vertical take-off and landing and are sustainable, eco-friendly vehicles powered by electricity, emitting zero harmful pollutants to the environment, concluded the report.