*** Flying taxi trials to begin in 2025 in Dubai — are you ready to actually fly in your taxi? | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Flying taxi trials to begin in 2025 in Dubai — are you ready to actually fly in your taxi?

The UAE is preparing to usher in a new age of transportation, with flying taxi trials expected to begin in 2025, marking a major step toward integrating smart and autonomous mobility solutions into daily life.

Authorities and industry experts say the move reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to develop sustainable and intelligent transport systems, combining innovation with efficiency to enhance urban connectivity.

A step closer to aerial mobility

Flying taxis — also known as electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft — are being positioned as the next frontier in urban mobility. These battery-powered air vehicles are designed to transport passengers safely across short distances, easing road congestion and reducing carbon emissions.

Trials of such services are expected to begin soon, in collaboration with global aviation technology firms, following extensive research and regulatory groundwork already completed in the UAE.

Expanding smart mobility

The UAE’s smart mobility plans extend beyond flying taxis. The country has already introduced autonomous taxis and delivery vehicles in select areas, reflecting its ambition to build an integrated ecosystem for driverless transport across land, air, and sea.

Experts note that the development of such systems will help reduce traffic accidents, improve road safety, and cut emissions, aligning with the nation’s broader sustainability and innovation goals.

Shaping the cities of the future

Officials highlight that smart mobility will play a key role in shaping future-ready cities, where technology supports both convenience and environmental responsibility. Upcoming events and initiatives focused on autonomous systems and innovation aim to showcase how these technologies can be applied in real-world scenarios — from air taxis to delivery drones.

The UAE’s regulatory flexibility, modern infrastructure, and growing talent pool continue to attract global tech partners and investors, further strengthening the country’s position as a regional hub for futuristic transportation.

Looking ahead

As trials and pilot operations move forward, residents may soon witness the transformation of how people move within cities. From autonomous road vehicles to urban air mobility solutions, the UAE’s smart transport initiatives are paving the way for a connected, sustainable, and technology-driven future.