Dubai: Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) has inked a historic agreement with US-based Joby Aviation and UK-based Skyports Infrastructure to bring electric air taxis to the emirate by 2027.
The service will link Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai within 15 minutes, reducing travel time between the two emirates by over an hour by car. The accord, which was announced in the presence of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, is part of the emirate's Comprehensive Mobility Plan 2030.
Under the plan, Joby will deploy and operate its all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft that can carry four passengers and a pilot at speeds of up to 321 kilometres per hour with zero noise and emissions. Skyports will provide the development of vertiport infrastructure, starting with a hub on Al Marjan Island, while RAKTA will provide regulation and system integration.
The project will greatly improve the mobility of residents and visitors, providing direct connections to key destinations such as Al Marjan Island, where the new Wynn Al Marjan resort is located, and Jebel Jais, the UAE's tallest peak. The project is also in line with the vision of the UAE for sustainable urban transport, further establishing Ras Al Khaimah as a rising tourism and investment destination.
The launch complements Joby's development in Dubai, where commercial passenger services will get underway in 2026. Through the creation of an inter-emirate air corridor, Ras Al Khaimah will increase the UAE's leadership in next-generation air mobility in the region, while promoting its vision for low-emissions transport innovation.
