The United Arab Emirates continues to cement its position as a regional aviation pioneer as Abu Dhabi Airports announced a groundbreaking partnership with UK-based Skyports Infrastructure to develop the capital's first commercial vertiport network for electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
Abu Dhabi Sets Timeline for Revolutionary Air Mobility Infrastructure
In a strategic move that underscores the UAE's commitment to technological advancement, Abu Dhabi Airports revealed on Tuesday its collaboration with Skyports Infrastructure to establish a comprehensive eVTOL operations network across the emirate. This partnership represents a significant milestone in the region's transportation evolution.
Construction has already commenced on two pioneering vertiports at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI), with both facilities scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026. These installations will enable the emirate's inaugural point-to-point eVTOL route while significantly enhancing connectivity between airports and urban centers.
Comprehensive Network to Transform Urban Mobility
The ambitious project extends far beyond the initial two locations. Abu Dhabi plans to establish more than 10 public vertiports strategically positioned at key urban and transit locations throughout the emirate, creating an extensive network that will revolutionize regional transportation.
The partnership encompasses comprehensive collaboration between Abu Dhabi Airports and Skyports on multiple fronts, including design, construction, and engineering of each facility. Both organizations will jointly handle the supply and installation of all necessary equipment and technology required for vertiport operations.
Operational Excellence and Integration
Upon completion of construction, the partnership will extend to operational management, covering passenger handling, security processing, cargo operations, and seamless integration with eVTOL operators. While financial details remain undisclosed, the scope of the project indicates substantial investment in future mobility infrastructure.
UAE-Wide eVTOL Network Takes Shape Across Multiple Emirates
The Abu Dhabi initiative forms part of a broader UAE-wide transformation in air mobility. Skyports is simultaneously developing the first of four planned vertiports in Dubai, with construction of the 'DXV' facility adjacent to Dubai International Airport scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2026.
Northern Emirates Join Aviation Innovation Drive
The company has secured agreements to develop vertiports in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, further expanding the national network. In Ras Al Khaimah, the vertiport network will serve Al Marjan Island, Jebel Jais, RAK International Airport, and Al Hamra, providing comprehensive coverage of key destinations.
Meanwhile, Ajman's development will see Skyports collaborating with Ajman Transport to identify optimal locations for vertiports and support technical preparations for future commercial eVTOL operations, ensuring the emirate remains connected to this revolutionary transportation network.
Strategic Positioning for Future Aviation Leadership
This comprehensive vertiport development across the UAE positions the nation at the forefront of next-generation aviation technology, reinforcing its status as a global hub for innovation and connectivity. The coordinated approach across multiple emirates demonstrates the UAE's unified vision for transforming regional transportation infrastructure.