Dubai's "Flying Taxi" to Launch Commercial Operations This Year

According to a January 16 report by Reuters, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on the same day that an electric "flying taxi" developed by US company Joby Aviation is expected to begin commercial operation in Dubai within the year.

Joby conducted the first test flight of its all-electric flying taxi in Dubai in June 2025, marking a major milestone for the emirate as it aims to integrate it into its existing transportation network. The California-based company's flagship electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft has a top speed of 320 km/h and a maximum range of 160 km. It is not only environmentally friendly with zero emissions during operation, but is also quiet enough for commercial use in dense urban areas.

In early 2024, Joby signed a six-year agreement with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority to acquire exclusive rights to operate flying taxis.