Dubai’s First Vertiport Set for Early 2026 Opening
Electric air taxi manufacturer Joby Aviation has announced that construction of Dubai’s inaugural vertiport will be completed in the first quarter of 2026. Located at Dubai International Airport (DXB), this facility will serve as the central hub for launching the UAE’s commercial electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) service network. The project includes plans for three additional vertiports at Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Downtown, and Dubai Marina, forming a comprehensive urban air mobility ecosystem.
Joby’s significant progress was underscored by the successful completion of 21 test flights during the summer months. These trials, involving manned aircraft performing vertical take-offs and landings, validated operational readiness across service logistics, ground infrastructure, and aircraft performance in real-world conditions. The inaugural test flight occurred on June 30th at the Dubai Jetman helipad, where the aircraft performed multiple circuits over the surrounding desert area in front of media and Joby executives.
Crucially, Joby conducted rigorous testing in Dubai’s extreme summer heat, with temperatures reaching approximately 110°F (43°C). These tests were vital for evaluating the performance and cooling systems of the aircraft’s batteries and electric motors under the challenging climatic conditions typical of the region, ensuring safety and reliability for year-round operations.
The development of the vertiport network is a collaborative effort between Joby Aviation, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and infrastructure specialist Skyports. This partnership highlights the coordinated approach to integrating eVTOL services into Dubai’s existing multi-modal transport framework. Joby anticipates commencing passenger operations in the first half of 2026, marking a transformative step towards reducing urban congestion by offering rapid aerial transit between key locations across the city. The DXB vertiport represents a cornerstone in Dubai’s strategy to become a global leader in advanced, sustainable urban transportation solutions.
Source: Khaleej Times
