Joby Aviation has signed a definitive agreement with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to launch electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations by early 2026.
Under this agreement, Joby Aviation states that its initial air taxi services could launch in Dubai by 2025.
The agreement was signed at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. It provides Joby with the exclusive right to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years.
The contract also secures support from the RTA to help Dubai become a world leader in delivering fast, clean and quiet air travel. This includes financial mechanisms for entry and for the maturing of services.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors for RTA said:The air taxi service is part of RTA’s efforts to embrace future transportation technologies and offers a novel and efficient mobility option for Dubai's residents and visitors, enabling fast, safe, and convenient travel to key city spots. This service will also enhance seamless multimodal transportation, improving citywide connectivity, and ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers.
Joby has also signed an agreement with Skyports, who will design, build and operate four initial vertiport sites in Dubai at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Dubai Downtown.
Joby’s aircraft, which can carry a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour will be able to travel between Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah in just 10 minutes. This compares to the current journey time of 45 minutes by car.
JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO, Joby Aviation, said:It is an honour to partner with the government of Dubai to demonstrate the value of sustainable air travel to the world.
Today’s landmark agreement delivers on all three ingredients required to successfully launch an air taxi service - a definitive path to operations, well-placed infrastructure supported by dedicated partners, and an aircraft with the capacity and range to deliver meaningful journeys.
We’re looking forward to delivering an incredible experience for residents and visitors to Dubai as early as 2025 and we’re excited to be laying the groundwork for the expansion of our service across the wider UAE.
