Abu Dhabi Investment Office activates air taxi operations with launch of vertiport network

Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has unveiled new vertiport infrastructure, enabling electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to operate efficiently across locations in Abu Dhabi. This is part of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster’s strategy to support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification by utilising newer technologies, including both advanced and sustainable air mobility solutions.

His Excellency Badr Al-Olama, director-general of ADIO, said, “This strategic initiative places Abu Dhabi at the forefront of next-generation mobility, exemplifying the power of partnerships between Abu Dhabi Government and the private sector in accelerating future industries. By integrating eVTOL infrastructure into our transport system and anchoring this initiative as part of the SAVI cluster, we are accelerating the deployment of smart and advanced mobility solutions  while solidifying the emirate’s position as a leader in future-defining industries. The launch of Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network marks a strategic step forward in building a future-ready transport system that integrates advanced air mobility solutions. Incorporating this system into the emirate’s infrastructure supports greater connectivity, operational efficiency and low-emission mobility, enhancing quality of life and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in advanced air mobility.”

Comprised of over 10 vertiports integrated into Abu Dhabi’s wider transport system, Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport have been confirmed as key locations within the network, with additional sites and intercity routes to be unveiled in future. The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) and GCAA are both involved in the development and operation of Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network within a clear regulatory framework, ensuring compliance with standards of safety, performance, and integration, thus enabling alignment with Abu Dhabi’s airspace and broader transport systems while ensuring financial sustainability. Abu Dhabi Airports has been selected as the anchor investor and will act as the primary delivery partner.

Elena Sorlini, MD &CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said, “As the anchor delivery partner for Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network, Abu Dhabi Airports will be critical in shaping the infrastructure, operations and commercial readiness of advanced air mobility in the emirate. This partnership reflects our long-term commitment to unlocking the future of aviation through innovation, as well as our key role in integrating next-generation mobility solutions into Abu Dhabi’s transport ecosystem. We are proud to collaborate with ADIO and the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) under this transformative partnership, which will leverage our collective strengths and cement Abu Dhabi’s position at the forefront of advanced air mobility.”