Dubai moves ahead with first air taxi station in major transport milestone

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Dubai has taken a significant step towards future urban mobility with the completion of its first air taxi station, a project described by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as a defining moment in the emirate’s transport evolution.

During an inspection visit to the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) station, Shaikh Hamdan said the development reflects Dubai’s ongoing push to lead globally in integrated and sustainable mobility solutions. Transport Shift Marking World Public Transport Day on April 17, he said Dubai continues to build a transport system driven by innovation, linking traditional and next-generation modes of travel to improve efficiency and quality of life.

He added that the new air taxi infrastructure strengthens Dubai’s vision of a fully integrated mobility network that includes metros, buses, and advanced air transport, offering residents and visitors faster and more flexible travel options.

Shaikh Hamdan also emphasized that Dubai is actively translating future-focused ideas into real-world systems, positioning the city as a global centre for testing and deploying advanced transport technologies.

Future Flight

The first air taxi station, located near Dubai International Airport, is the first of its kind globally and will serve as the central operations hub for the service. It is being developed by Skyports Infrastructure, which specialises in advanced air mobility facilities.

Officials said the station is expected to handle around 170,000 passengers annually once operations begin. Additional stations are planned across key areas including Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina, with the network expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Mobility Leap

Shaikh Hamdan was joined during the visit by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and senior officials from Dubai’s aviation and transport sectors.

He directed that the air taxi service be made available to the public within this year, ensuring it meets the highest international standards. He said the project will help cut travel times and further enhance connectivity across the city.

The initiative reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to turn innovation into practical solutions that support sustainable growth and future-ready infrastructure.