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Dubai is poised to become the first city globally to offer a fully integrated, premium air taxi network, thanks to a landmark agreement between Joby Aviation and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The service, utilizing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, is slated to begin operations in 2026, marking a significant leap toward realizing the long-held vision of urban air mobility.
From Uber’s Vision to Joby’s Reality
The concept of flying taxis gained prominence a decade ago when ride-sharing giant Uber invested heavily in its Elevate initiative. This program, encompassing research and annual summits, effectively launched the eVTOL industry, promising a future of swift, clean transportation above congested cities. While Uber ultimately discontinued the Elevate program in 2020, Joby Aviation, initially operating in “stealth mode,” stepped in to acquire the program and carry the torch.
Joby, founded in 2009, has since secured over $3 billion in funding, including approximately $900 million from Toyota, and has emerged as a leading force in the eVTOL space. The company now asserts it is on the cusp of transforming “urban air mobility” from a futuristic concept into a tangible reality.
Exclusive Partnership Solidifies Dubai’s Position
In February 2024, Joby announced its ambitious plans for the United Arab Emirates at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. The resulting agreement grants Joby an exclusive six-year right to operate air taxis in Dubai following the launch of commercial operations. “Dubai continues to be our global launchpad for commercial service, and our progress here is a testament to the UAE’s visionary approach to advanced air mobility,” stated Anthony Khoury, Joby’s UAE general manager.
To support this network, Joby has partnered with U.K.-based Skyports to design, construct, and operate four “vertiport” locations throughout the city. These facilities will serve as hubs for passenger loading, unloading, and battery charging, with initial sites planned near Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, the Atlantis the Royal resort, and American University in Dubai.
A Global Race with Early Competition
While Joby is poised to lead the charge in routine point-to-point passenger transport via eVTOL, it won’t be the first to carry passengers. That distinction belongs to China’s EHang, which is currently conducting limited sightseeing and demonstration flights with its autonomous electric multicopters. However, Joby’s piloted aircraft aim to fulfill the original promise of Uber Elevate – a practical solution to urban congestion.
The company also has a strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines to develop an airport shuttle service in the United States, further expanding its reach. The Joby S4 aircraft, powered by six electric motors each capable of a peak output of 236 kilowatts, is central to these plans.
Operating a reliable air taxi service presents significant challenges, requiring robust aircraft, dependable charging infrastructure, and sophisticated scheduling software. Joby anticipates a phased rollout in 2026, beginning with test flights, “proving runs,” and ultimately, non-paying passenger flights to refine the passenger experience before full commercial launch.
According to one aviation infrastructure and policy advisor who participated in a workshop with Dubai’s RTA, “Dubai’s approach is deeper and more comprehensive than what you see in many of the headlines.” The advisor noted the RTA’s thorough consideration of safety, security, and system integration, highlighting a commitment to a well-planned and sustainable solution.
Certification and the Path Forward
Notably, Joby is moving forward with its Dubai operations in advance of receiving a type certificate from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While a type certificate is typically a prerequisite for commercial passenger operations, the company is making progress toward FAA certification. The FAA has faced delays in certifying both conventional and novel aircraft in recent years, attributed to staffing shortages and increased scrutiny following the Boeing 737 Max crisis.
This situation may explain Dubai’s willingness to approve early operations prior to FAA certification. The United States is now mirroring this approach with its own eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), soliciting proposals for demonstration projects starting in summer 2026. While the eIPP won’t allow for commercial passenger flights, it will facilitate crucial testing and data collection. Joby intends to participate in the eIPP, potentially bringing its air taxis to U.S. cities in 2026, even if initially with only a pilot on board.
The realization of urban air mobility is no longer a distant dream, but a rapidly approaching reality, with Dubai leading the way.
