The UAE’s recent implementation of national regulations governing vertiports, which serve as infrastructure for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, marks a significant step toward establishing the nation as a frontrunner in the burgeoning field of air taxi transportation technology.

A multi-million dollar deal has been struck to expedite the launch of commercial air taxi operations in the United Arab Emirates, with a planned rollout expected by late 2025.

Archer Aviation, the New York Stock Exchange-listed electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer, has signed a significant agreement with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). 

In addition to air taxis, the collaboration encompasses the in-country manufacturing of Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft within the UAE. Archer will collaborate with regional government entities across Abu Dhabi to develop essential infrastructure, including vertiports and charging stations.

Archer and ADIO will collaborate on constructing vertiports, essential landing and takeoff points for the eVTOL network, in strategic locations across Abu Dhabi.

Secondly, the agreement enables the in-country manufacturing of Archer’s Midnight aircraft within the UAE, streamlining logistics and potentially positioning the region as a future hub for eVTOL production. Lastly, the collaboration extends to training programs across the region, ensuring a skilled workforce to support the launch and operation of air taxi services.

“This substantial agreement with Abu Dhabi is a pivotal moment for Archer’s commercialization efforts across the Emirates, as it provides the catalyst to accelerate the launch of our electric air taxi service in the UAE as soon as late 2025,” said Archer founder and CEO Adam Goldstein.

The statement elaborates that ADIO will collaborate with Archer and other air taxi operators to develop a network of vertiports in key locations across Abu Dhabi. This aims to create a robust infrastructure for this futuristic mode of transportation.