Dubai’s Museum of the Future, in collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has unveiled an aerial taxi prototype developed by Joby Aviation. Showcased on the museum’s Tomorrow Today floor, the prototype reflects Dubai’s commitment to smart, sustainable urban mobility and aligns with the Dubai Self-Driving Strategy.
This initiative is a key step toward transforming transportation in Dubai, with the goal of achieving 25% self-driving trips by 2030. The project supports global sustainability objectives by reducing carbon emissions through advanced electric aviation technology.
A Milestone in Urban Mobility
Dubai is set to become the first city in the world to launch an aerial taxi service, with operations scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026.
Khaled Al Awadhi, Director of Transportation Systems at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, emphasized the significance of this initiative:
“We are honoured to showcase the aerial taxi model at the Museum of the Future, which underscores Dubai’s ambition and forward-thinking approach to redefining mobility in this vibrant city. Marking the beginning of a transformative era in urban mobility, Dubai is set to become the first city in the world to launch the aerial taxi project, with the service scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026. The aerial taxi stands out for its vertical take-off and landing capabilities, coupled with its adherence to the highest standards of safety and security to ensure the well-being of passengers.”
Shaping the Future of Transportation
The Museum of the Future is committed to showcasing innovations that redefine mobility.
Majed Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future, highlighted the importance of this collaboration:
“The Museum of the Future has become home to the aerial taxi prototype, reflecting Dubai’s pioneering leadership in shaping the future of transportation. This initiative provides visitors with a glimpse into innovations designed to redefine mobility, making travel faster, safer, and more sustainable.”
“Our partnership with the RTA underscores the museum’s mission to inspire groundbreaking ideas and foster a culture of innovation. It aligns with Dubai’s vision of achieving meaningful advancements that benefit society, guided by the aspirations of our leadership.”
Sustainable and Innovative Air Travel
The Joby S4 aerial taxi integrates zero-emission electric aviation technology, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solution.
Key Features of the Aerial Taxi:
- Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities for greater flexibility.
- Six rotors and four battery packs, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Capacity for four passengers plus a pilot, offering a premium travel experience.
- Range of 161 km and maximum speed of 322 km/h, providing a quiet alternative to helicopters.
Connecting Key Locations in Dubai
The initial routes for the aerial taxi will connect major hubs, including: Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah
For example, a trip from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah will take just 12 minutes compared to 45 minutes by car.
This service will also integrate with public transportation networks, including: Metro and bus systems, E-scooters and bicycles, and other individual mobility solutions.
The World’s First Vertiport
Dubai will introduce its first vertiport to support aerial taxi operations, designed to handle 42,000 landings annually and accommodate approximately 170,000 passengers.
The project involves global industry leaders:
- Joby Aviation will manage vehicle operations and passenger logistics.
- Skyports Infrastructure will oversee the vertiport’s design, construction, and operation.
- RTA will ensure seamless integration with Dubai’s transportation network.
A New Era for Air Mobility
Anthony Khoury, UAE General Manager of Joby Aviation, expressed excitement about bringing electric air travel to the public:
“It is an honour to share our electric air taxi with the public through this exhibit, at a museum that is committed to advancing a more sustainable future for all. We plan to deliver an incredible experience for residents and visitors to Dubai, and we’re excited to invite people into the conversation about what the future of clean, quiet and efficient air travel will look like when we launch our service.”
The aerial taxi service is a vital part of Dubai’s Self-Driving Strategy, complementing other autonomous transportation solutions such as:
- Driverless metro and bus networks
- Smart taxis
- AI-driven traffic management systems
Moving Ahead
The unveiling of Dubai’s aerial taxi prototype marks a major step toward futuristic, sustainable urban mobility. With electric aviation technology, multimodal transport integration, and a world-class vertiport, this initiative will:
- Transform travel in Dubai with faster, safer, and eco-friendly transport.
- Support Dubai’s goal of 25% self-driving trips by 2030.
- Position Dubai as a global leader in urban air mobility and smart transportation.
The aerial taxi is set to redefine the future of smart, efficient, and sustainable travel as Dubai continues to push the boundaries of innovation.
