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DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed an agreement on Sunday to launch an aerial taxi service in Dubai by 2026.

The agreement signing was witnessed by Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ahead of the World Governments Summit (WGS).

Following the agreement, Dubai is set to become the first city in the world with a commercial, city-wide electric aerial taxi service and vertiport network, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

The Joby Aviation S4 Aerial taxi is part of Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) future mobility initiatives, aimed at providing transportation services for both Dubai residents and visitors.

This innovative transportation service uses cutting-edge technology to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of individuals within urban areas. The initiative aims to integrate with Dubai's public transport network.

The Joby Aviation S4 is designed to accommodate four passengers, in addition to the pilot. It is equipped with six propellers and four battery packs, enabling it to cover a maximum distance of 161 km.

With a top speed of up to 321 km per hour, the aerial taxi is less noisy than helicopters.

Its vertical take-off and landing capability makes it efficient for urban environments, eliminating the need for extensive horizontal space typically required for conventional stations.