The UAE is making strides in urban air mobility with the approval of its first vertiport, DXV, marking a significant step towards the future of transportation. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) recently gave its approval for the technical design of the facility, making it the first to comply with the newly established UAE Vertiport Regulations. This is a major milestone for air mobility in the country and allows Skyports Infrastructure to begin the development of the facility.
DXV: The First of Four Air Taxi Hubs
DXV is the first of four planned air taxi hubs under the UAE’s innovative air mobility framework. The facility will span 3,100 sq. meters and will be dedicated to the take-off, landing, and maintenance of flying taxis. This hub will include electric charging stations for aircraft, passenger waiting areas, and advanced security features. The project is designed to handle up to 42,000 landings and 170,000 passengers annually.
Key Locations and Features
The first phase of DXV’s operations will cover four strategically selected locations: Dubai International Airport (DXB), Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. These locations were chosen for their high demand and suitability for air taxi services, positioning the UAE as a pioneer in urban air mobility.
Safety and Regulation at the Core
Safety is a top priority in the design of DXV. The vertiport has been developed with comprehensive safety measures, including robust rescue and firefighting services (RFFS) designed to cater to both traditional and battery-powered aircraft. These efforts ensure the safe operation of air taxis and align with global aviation safety standards.
A Groundbreaking Moment for Urban Transportation
The approval of DXV represents a groundbreaking moment for urban transportation in the UAE. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, the Director-General of GCAA, highlighted that this approval is a significant achievement in the country’s air mobility ambitions. Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports, also emphasized the importance of the GCAA’s leadership in regulation, which will help scale air taxi services across the UAE.
A Global Leader in Transportation Innovation
The UAE’s commitment to innovation is evident in the development of this air taxi infrastructure. The GCAA and Skyports have collaborated to create a regulatory framework that not only meets global aviation safety benchmarks but also positions the UAE as a global leader in cutting-edge transportation solutions. With the DXV vertiport scheduled to open in early 2026, the UAE is set to pave the way for future advancements in sustainable urban air mobility.
