Abu Dhabi flying taxis to take off in 2026

Flying taxis will take off in Abu Dhabi in 2026, as the emirate looks to become a major international force in smart and autonomous vehicles.

Archer Aviation, a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has announced it has agreed with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to launch and commence air taxi operations in Abu Dhabi in 2026.

Archer also has an understanding with Falcon Aviation, a reputed player in the UAE for flying helicopters over the past two decades. The partnership will bring all-electric air taxis to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, aiding the UAE’s passionate endeavors aimed at promoting sustainability in all sectors.

Archer has entered an agreement with Abu Dhabi Investment Office to make Abu Dhabi its first international launch partner.

His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, acting director general of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, said, “Bringing electric aviation to the UAE will help unlock congestion with zero emissions and, in turn, bring millions in foreign direct investment and thousands of jobs to the region over the next decade.”

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), revealed that the federal body has already inspected Archer’s Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

“The GCAA recently visited Archer Aviation’s global headquarters in California to inspect its Midnight aircraft and learn about their certification progress with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Our goal is to approve Archer’s air taxi to fly in the UAE as soon as it is certified by the FAA, and we are very excited to collaborate with them to bring electric air taxis to the country.”

Archer’s Midnight aircraft are piloted and have seats for four passengers.

The company aims to replace 60- to 90-minute commutes by car with 10- to 20-minute electric air taxi flights that are “sustainable, low noise and cost-competitive”.

Abu Dhabi is already trialing driverless taxis across the city, with free journeys available across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island through the TAXI app.

Plus, a new electric trackless tram service has just launched connecting Reem Mall and Marina Mall – and it’s free to use.