Industry experts have predicted a groundbreaking reduction in travel time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, estimating it to be a mere 30 minutes, as the UAE emerges as a leader in the urban mobility revolution. Joby Aviation, a prominent US-based company specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, is poised to commence air taxi operations by 2025 or early 2026.
During DRIFTx – an esteemed event focused on smart and autonomous mobility and transport – held at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, an executive from Joby Aviation disclosed that their aircraft would facilitate travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai within a span of 30 to 35 minutes. JoeBen Bevirt, CEO of Joby Aviation, lauded the UAE’s swift progress in infrastructure development and certification of autonomous aircraft, emphasizing the nation’s exceptional momentum in this arena.
In a significant move, Joby Aviation inked an agreement with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) in February to inaugurate air taxi services in the Emirate by early 2026. Other major players such as eVTOL developer Archer Aviation and UAE’s Falcon Aviation have also unveiled plans to establish vertiport infrastructure in key locations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
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Archer Aviation, during DRIFTx, announced a framework agreement aimed at expediting commercial air taxi operations in the UAE, with plans to commence as early as next year utilizing its Midnight aircraft. The collaboration with Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) encompasses vertiport construction, operational support for air taxi services, and local manufacturing of aircraft. Furthermore, ADIO is committed to fostering Emirati talent through workforce development programs and facilitating the establishment of Archer’s international headquarters and center of excellence in Abu Dhabi.
Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer, hailed the agreement with Abu Dhabi as a pivotal moment for the company’s endeavors in the UAE, anticipating the launch of their electric air taxi service as soon as late 2025.
DRIFTx attendees were offered a glimpse into the future of transportation, featuring Automated Rapid Transit (ART), self-driving TAXI taxis adorned with new livery, and driverless minibusses shuttling visitors across the venue. The exhibition area showcased prototypes of flying taxis, driverless cars, drones, and various innovative systems, including real-time streaming demos of driving experiences from around the globe.
With the imminent launch of flying taxis and concerted efforts towards embracing autonomous mobility, the UAE is spearheading a transformative shift in urban transportation, setting the stage for a futuristic and efficient mobility landscape.
