Dubai is set to launch flying taxi services that will carry passengers from Dubai International Airport to popular destinations like Jumeirah in just eight minutes. The new air travel system will utilize electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs), dramatically reducing the need for long road journeys through city traffic.
First Vertiport Near Dubai International Airport
A dedicated vertical take-off and landing hub, known as a vertiport, is currently under development near Dubai International Airport. Scheduled to become operational in the first quarter of 2026, this facility—named DXV—will be the first of its kind in the UAE. It is designed to handle flying taxi arrivals and departures with full passenger services including boarding lounges, check-in zones, and fast-charging stations.
8-Minute Trips Instead of 45
Once the service launches, travelers landing at DXB will be able to reach destinations like Madinat Jumeirah or the iconic Burj Al Arab in just eight minutes—a huge leap from the usual 45-minute car ride during peak traffic hours. This advancement isn’t just about speed; it’s also about enhancing convenience, efficiency, and sustainability in how people move across the city.
Leveraging Existing Infrastructure
To support rapid rollout, the initiative plans to utilize more than 30 existing helipads across the city—located at hotels, hospitals, shopping centers, and office towers. These existing sites will be upgraded to accommodate the flying taxis, making it easier to integrate the new service into Dubai’s existing infrastructure without the need for massive new construction.
Network Expansion Already Underway
Alongside the DXV vertiport, additional locations are being developed across Dubai, forming a network that connects key destinations such as Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina. The goal is to make air travel within the city fast, accessible, and affordable for both residents and visitors.
Sustainability and Innovation at the Core
The flying taxis are fully electric, emitting no pollution and producing minimal noise—ideal for urban environments. Beyond speed, this service offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ground transport, aligning with Dubai’s vision of a smarter, greener city.
The Future is Nearly Here
With infrastructure on track and partnerships already in place, Dubai’s air taxi service is expected to begin carrying passengers as early as 2026. What once seemed like a scene from a sci-fi movie is now poised to become an everyday experience for travelers and residents in one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities.
