Joby Aviation has completed a series of piloted flights in Dubai that mark the beginning of its commercial market readiness campaign in the region.
These successful vertical takeoff and wingborne transition flights are said to be the first of their kind in the eVTOL sector and signal the operational maturity of Joby’s aircraft as it prepares to carry its first passengers in 2026.
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, said, “The United Arab Emirates is a launchpad for a global revolution in how we move. In addition to building a performant aircraft, we’ve also been maturing our program for anticipated passenger service with global operational capabilities and scalable, durable manufacturing. Our flights and operational footprint in Dubai are a monumental step toward weaving air taxi services into the fabric of daily life worldwide. With our visionary partners, we’re igniting a future where quiet, clean flight is the new normal, and we’re demonstrating the leadership of American innovation on the global stage.”
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, added, “The launch of the air taxi’s trial operation reflects UAE leadership’s vision to advance sustainable and innovative mobility across all public and shared transport modes. It underscores Dubai’s commitment to keeping pace with rapid global transformations and developing future-ready solutions to emerging mobility challenges.
“The air taxi will introduce a new premium service for residents and visitors seeking smooth, fast, and safe travel to key destinations across the city. The service will also strengthen integration with public transport systems and individual mobility options such as e-scooters and bicycles, enabling seamless multimodal travel and enhanced connectivity across Dubai, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all passengers.”
The milestone was achieved in close collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority. It follows the 2024 agreement granting Joby exclusive rights to operate air taxi services in Dubai for six years. The flights were observed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, who witnessed firsthand the progress being made toward Dubai’s goal of a safe, sustainable, and integrated mobility network.
Joby’s initial commercial network in Dubai will connect key locations including Dubai International Airport, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Downtown Dubai. The trip between DXB and Palm Jumeirah, for instance, is expected to take just 12 minutes, replacing a 45-minute drive with a fast and emissions-free alternative. Designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers, Joby’s electric aircraft can reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour while producing a fraction of the noise of traditional helicopters. Its quiet operation and minimal footprint make it ideal for urban mobility and regional trips alike.
The launch of commercial readiness efforts in Dubai follows nearly two years of intensive hot weather testing at Edwards Air Force Base in California, reinforcing the aircraft’s operational performance in extreme conditions. It also reflects Joby’s ability to scale logistics and manage cross-regional operations as it prepares for full commercial deployment.
