Abu Dhabi Airports has announced that it has been awarded a major mandate to spearhead the development of infrastructure, operations, and commercial readiness for a strategic network of vertiports. This initiative strengthens the emirate’s standing as a global hub for advanced air mobility and sustainable aviation innovation.
The project marks a significant step in redefining air travel across the UAE, introducing cutting-edge electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into Abu Dhabi’s integrated transport ecosystem. This development is set to revolutionise urban connectivity and establish the foundation for next-generation mobility solutions.
The roadmap outlines a phased rollout of more than ten public vertiports situated at strategic urban and transit hubs, with the first eVTOL flights targeted for launch in 2026.
The initial phase will focus on Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport, creating the first direct eVTOL routes and enhancing seamless connectivity between airports and the city.
Abu Dhabi Airports confirmed its collaboration with Skyports Infrastructure, which will oversee the design, construction, and engineering of each vertiport to meet international safety and operational standards.
Following construction, both organisations plan to jointly manage vertiport operations, encompassing passenger services, security, cargo logistics, and coordination with eVTOL operators to ensure efficient integration into the wider transport network.
Skyports Infrastructure, a global leader in advanced air mobility infrastructure, is already engaged in several vertiport developments across the UAE and international markets, making it a natural partner for this ambitious project.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “This mandate is a bold vote of confidence in our ability to drive the future of next-generation mobility. With evolving technology and rising demand for efficient, sustainable transport, air taxis are a natural progression of our role as an airport operator. The strong collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Integrated Transport Centre, and the General Civil Aviation Authority has been instrumental in turning this vision into reality, shaping a more connected, innovative, and sustainable future for the UAE.”
Commenting on the partnership, Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports Infrastructure, stated: “This vertiport network is a central element of Abu Dhabi’s AAM strategy. With Skyports already advancing vertiport projects in the UAE and beyond, we are well-positioned to apply our expertise and help bring the benefits of advanced air mobility to the emirate. We look forward to facilitating eVTOL flights in Abu Dhabi in the near future.”
The battery-powered eVTOL aircraft will initially be piloted and carry up to four passengers, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable alternative to conventional helicopters.
With noise levels nearly 100 times lower than traditional helicopters during flight, these aircraft align with the UAE’s environmental goals, reinforcing its commitment to pioneering eco-friendly and technologically advanced transport solutions.
