Dubai Announces the Launch of the Revolutionary Aerial Taxi Service by 2026
The UAE has finalized the agreement to launch a city-wide electric aerial taxi service in Dubai by 2026, setting a worldwide model for commercial aerial mobility with an extensive network of vertiports.
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As per the agreement, the UAE’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will oversee services associated with advanced air mobility, while Joby is set to provide an aerial ridesharing service, and Skyports will exclusively handle the design, construction, and operation of a network of vertiports.
The vertiports will feature a three-story parking structure, with the top level dedicated to the vertiport terminal and airfield for the air taxis, linked directly to the Emirates Metro Station to promote seamless multimodal transport.
The agreement also involves collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Dubai Air Navigation Services Corporation (DANS), and other key bodies to frame the legislative and operational groundwork for the service.
The signing, attended by prominent figures including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, preceded the World Governments Summit (WGS).
The Joby Aviation S4 features:
The Joby Aviation S4 Aerial Taxi is a key component of the RTA vision for future mobility. It features cutting-edge technology for safe and efficient urban travel, aiming for full integration with Dubai’s existing public transport systems. It’s designed to carry four passengers and a pilot, the Joby Aviation S4 boasts six propellers and four battery packs, promising a unique travel experience.
The Joby S4 offers a remarkable range of up to 161 kilometres and speeds reaching 321 kilometres per hour, surpassing helicopters in quietness. Its vertical take-off and landing abilities are ideal for the urban landscape, requiring less space than traditional stations.
The service is set to commence from four strategic locations around Dubai, including Dubai International Airport, Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. And a flight from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah via aerial taxi, for example, will cut travel time to just 10 minutes, a significant reduction from the current 45-minute car journey.
Besides all the other advantages, the Joby S4 also offers environmental benefits, including lower noise levels and zero emissions.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
Providing a high-end smart living experience for residents
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In a groundbreaking move, Batelco, a subsidiary of the Beyon Group, has entered a strategic partnership with Grnata, a renowned real estate group, to integrate advanced smart solutions into the Golden Gate residential towers in Bahrain Bay.
The formal agreement was signed at Beyon’s headquarters by Hassan Al Mushaima, Chairman of Grnata Real Estate Group, and Maitham Abdulla, Chief Executive Officer of Batelco, witnessed by representatives from both companies.
This collaboration aims to transform the Golden Gate towers, among Bahrain’s tallest residential structures, into a high-tech haven. Batelco will deploy state-of-the-art technology solutions to enhance residents’ living experience.
A standout feature of this project is the implementation of a bespoke In-Building Solution (IBS), designed to boost wireless signal quality and coverage across all floors, ensuring seamless connectivity. Additionally, cutting-edge video surveillance (CCTV) systems will be installed to enhance security, providing residents with increased peace of mind.
Furthermore, the Golden Gate towers will be equipped with the latest technology systems, enabling residents to remotely control various aspects of their apartments. This includes managing lighting, air conditioning, windows, curtains, and main door access. The system is designed to be future proof, allowing integration with upcoming advancements in home automation, thus ensuring residents benefit from emerging smart home capabilities.
Hassan Al Mushaima, Chairman of Grnata Real Estate Group said: “We are pleased to announce our new strategic partnership with Batelco, Bahrain’s leading telecommunications provider.”
“Batelco’s extensive expertise in smart and digital solutions will be invaluable in equipping the towers with best-in-class connectivity, automation, and intelligent building management solutions. We are excited to leverage Batelco’s innovative capabilities to create a sophisticated and future-ready smart infrastructure for the Golden Gate Towers and provide our customers with the very best modern apartments in the market,” he added.
Maitham Abdulla, Batelco CEO, stated: “We are delighted to partner with Grnata to deliver apartments that match the evolving demands of modern-day living. We are confident that Batelco’s solutions, designed for a contemporary lifestyle, will offer convenience and efficiency, elevating the overall living experience for the Golden Gate towers residents.”
Mr. Abdulla further emphasized, “By integrating the latest smart home features and connectivity throughout the towers, we can provide residents with a lifestyle that is not only luxurious, but also highly convenient, efficient, and secure.” “Batelco is eager to expand its presence within the real estate sector and redefine the standards of contemporary urban living. This partnership with Grnata marks the beginning of an exciting journey, and Batelco looks forward to future collaborations and projects,” he concluded.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
