Museum of the Future

Museum of the Future Showcases Flying Taxi Prototype

The Museum of the Future in Dubai is inviting residents and visitors to explore a prototype of an eco-friendly flying taxi. This innovative electric vehicle produces zero emissions and is equipped with six propellers and four batteries. Capable of carrying up to four passengers and a pilot simultaneously, the flying taxi boasts a top speed of 322 km/h and a range of 161 km, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional helicopters.

Dubai is set to become the first city in the world to launch a flying taxi service, with operations expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026.

Khaled Al Awadi, Director of Transportation Systems at the Public Transport Agency of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), explained that the flying taxi features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities and adheres to the highest safety standards, ensuring passenger well-being.

Initial routes will connect key locations across Dubai, including Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. For instance, a trip from the airport to Palm Jumeirah will take just 12 minutes, compared to 45 minutes by car. The new service will also enhance integration with various public transport systems and individual mobility solutions, such as e-scooters and bicycles.

Last month, the UAE’s first commercial vertiport for flying taxis was unveiled, named Dubai International Vertiport (DXV). It will be capable of handling up to 42,000 landings annually and transporting around 170,000 passengers. Operations and logistics for the vehicles will be managed by Joby Aviation, while the design, construction, and operation of the vertiport will be overseen by Skyports Infrastructure.

Antony Hurey, CEO of Joby in the UAE, emphasized that the company aims to provide Dubai residents and tourists with a unique experience, inviting everyone to engage in discussions about the future of clean, quiet, and efficient air travel once the service is launched.

SourceKhaleej Times