5 performance indicators for expanding the operation of “air taxis” in Dubai

The Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai has linked the expansion of the operation of the “air taxi” service to the results of specific operational performance indicators, including safety, readiness, regularity of flights, customer satisfaction, and efficiency of integration with the transportation system, as part of its preparations to launch the commercial operation of the service before the end of this year, within the framework of a phased operating model that determines the pace of expansion based on the actual results of performance.

The Authority confirmed that the first phase will begin with a limited scope, in terms of the number of daily flights, operating hours, and capacity, with the aim of testing operational readiness and ensuring service stability before increasing capacity and number of routes, noting that the results of field measurement will form the basis for approving any subsequent expansion.

She explained that commercial operation is subject to completing comprehensive regulatory, technical and operational requirements in coordination with the competent authorities.

She indicated that the service will start at four stations, including Dubai International Airport, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah, given its strategic, economic and tourism importance and the high expected demand for it.

She added that the operating company conducted the first test flight of the fully electric plane in June 2025, in a step that supported the readiness of the system and paved the way for the start of commercial operation.

She revealed that the “Gobi Air Taxi” is distinguished by its ability to take off and land vertically, with a flight range of up to 160 kilometers, and a speed of up to 320 kilometers per hour. It is completely electric, without operational emissions, and with low noise levels, which makes it suitable for the urban environment.

She also confirmed that the service was designed to be an integrated part of the transportation system, by linking take-off and landing sites with metro stations and providing connectivity to taxis and public transportation, allowing customers to complete their trips within one connected path.

She added that booking and using the service will be done through smart digital platforms that allow advance booking, electronic payment, and provision of trip instructions, with gradual linking to the authority’s applications, in support of a smooth and integrated user experience.

She stated that the phased operational model aims to provide an integrated and effective urban air transport service that contributes to enhancing the quality of life and consolidating Dubai’s position among the first cities in the world in implementing future transportation solutions.

In early 2024, the Authority had signed an agreement to launch the air taxi service, with the General Authority of Civil Aviation in the country, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, the British company Skyports Infrastructure, a leader in developing advanced air transport infrastructure, and Joby Aviation, which specializes in the advanced air transport sector, making Dubai the first city in the world to enjoy air transport in urban areas, through an advanced network for vertical take-off and landing of air taxis.

Thus, Dubai is moving steadily towards the commercial operation of the air taxi service to consolidate its position as a city of the future, and a global center for innovative and sustainable urban mobility solutions, combining efficient infrastructure and high quality of life.

The “air taxi” will contribute to enhancing integration with the various means of public transportation in the Emirate of Dubai, and individual means of transportation such as electric scooters and bicycles, facilitating multimodal transportation, enhancing connectivity across the city, and providing a smooth journey for passengers.

• The results of the field measurement will form the basis for adopting any subsequent expansion.

• Booking to use the “air taxi” through smart digital platforms that allow advance reservation and electronic payment.