The world’s first permanent commercial vertiport is undergoing construction in Dubai, led by Skyports and the Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai (RTA), in anticipation of the estimated 2026 debut of Joby Aviation air taxi services.
The vertiport is one of four planned projects in Dubai, located near Dubai International Airport. Designed to match the architecture of the Dubai Metro and other public transport infrastructure, the building will have three-storeys and cover 3,100 square metres. The other three vertiports are to be located at Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Downtown, and Dubai Marina.
Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports, said: “Today is an exciting day. The shared vision of Skyports, the RTA, Joby Aviation, and the many government authorities we work with in Dubai and the UAE is now being realised as we begin construction and see the first vertiport come to life. In the coming months, we will continue to advance our efforts in Dubai while our teams diligently work on essential technology, regulatory, and operational preparations to ensure a successful launch on day one.”
Features of the vertiport will include two landing areas to facilitate eVTOL and conventional helicopter operations, as well as fast charging technology to recharge up to ten aircraft an hour between flights. For passenger experience, the vertiport will provide amenities such as electronic check-in, security screening, a departure lounge, and briefing areas, with the capability to support up to 170,000 passengers every year.
Images: Skyports
