Dubai's Museum Of The Future Reveals Aerial Taxi Prototype

Dubai's Museum of the Future, in collaboration with the emirate's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has unveiled a prototype of an aerial taxi developed by Joby Aviation, a California-based aerospace company specializing in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. 

The prototype, located on the museum's Tomorrow, Today floor, highlights Dubai’s focus on smart, sustainable transportation and the Dubai Self-Driving Strategy, which aims to achieve 25 percent self-driving trips by 2030. 

The Joby S4 aerial taxi, set to launch in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, is part of Dubai's Self-Driving Strategy, which aims to improve transportation, reduce carbon emissions, and support global sustainability through the use of the metro, buses, and taxis.

The Joby S4 produces no harmful emissions, with a vertical take-off and landing design that offers a quieter option compared to traditional helicopters. The vehicle, which seats four passengers and a pilot, features six rotors, and four battery packs, and can travel up to 161 kilometers at a speed of 322 kilometers per hour (km/h). 

Initial routes will connect major locations across the city, including Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, with a trip from the airport to Palm Jumeirah taking 12 minutes, compared to 45 minutes by car. The service is expected to integrate with other public transport options, including e-scooters and bicycles, providing a more connected urban transportation system. 

A new vertiport, designed to accommodate up to 42,000 landings annually and serve about 170,000 passengers, will be operated by international partners. Joby Aviation will manage vehicle operations, while the UK-based Skyports Infrastructure, which specializes in advanced air transport infrastructure, will oversee station construction and operation. RTA will ensure the service is integrated into Dubai’s broader transportation network.  

Khaled Al Awadhi, director of transportation systems at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said in a statement, “We are honored to showcase the aerial taxi model at the Museum of the Future, which underscores Dubai's ambition and forward-thinking approach to redefining mobility in this vibrant city. Marking the beginning of a transformative era in urban mobility, Dubai is set to become the first city in the world to launch the aerial taxi project. The aerial taxi stands out for its vertical take-off and landing capabilities, coupled with its adherence to the highest standards of safety and security to ensure the well-being of passengers.”   

Majed Al Mansoori, executive director of the Museum of the Future, stated, “The Museum of the Future has become home to the aerial taxi prototype, reflecting Dubai’s pioneering leadership in shaping the future of transportation. This initiative provides visitors with a glimpse into innovations designed to redefine mobility, making travel faster, safer, and more sustainable. Our partnership with the RTA underscores the museum’s mission to inspire groundbreaking ideas and foster a culture of innovation. It aligns with Dubai’s vision of achieving meaningful advancements that benefit society, guided by the aspirations of our leadership."   

“It is an honor to share our electric air taxi with the public through this exhibit, at a museum that is committed to advancing a more sustainable future for all,” commented Anthony Khoury, UAE general manager of Joby. “We plan to deliver an incredible experience for residents and visitors to Dubai, and we’re excited to invite people into the conversation about what the future of clean, quiet, and efficient air travel will look like when we launch our service.”

Video courtesy Dubai's Museum of the Future.