Abu Dhabi is accelerating its advanced air mobility plans with a comprehensive vertiport network, aiming for commercial eVTOL operations by 2026, and positioning itself as a leader in sustainable urban transport innovation.
Abu Dhabi is really making waves in the world of advanced air mobility (AAM) with a major project, one that’s all about building a comprehensive vertiport network to support the growing use of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This bold plan, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Airports in partnership with Skyports Infrastructure, aims to weave eVTOL flights into the emirate’s transportation system. It’s a pretty significant shift towards more sustainable, quieter, and efficient urban and regional air travel.
This project is truly a game-changer for the UAE’s aviation scene. They’re looking to start commercial eVTOL operations as soon as 2026, which is impressive. Abu Dhabi Airports has been given a pretty broad mandate, to design, build, and operate over 10 public vertiports strategically placed at key transport hubs like Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport. The first of these will act as launch points for short routes connecting airports directly with city centers. In later phases, the network will extend further, to include more locations like business districts, popular tourist spots like Yas Island and Saadiyat, and maybe even inter-emirate routes.
Skyports Infrastructure, a well-known name worldwide when it comes to developing vertiports, will work hand-in-hand with Abu Dhabi Airports to make sure these hubs meet the highest safety and operational standards. Their collaboration will also cover passenger handling, security checks, and cargo logistics at these vertiports. With Skyports’ deep expertise and Abu Dhabi’s big-picture vision, the aim is to create a smooth, integrated transportation system that innovative and safety-focused, guided closely with oversight from the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
There’s also an exciting twist involving a partnership with LODD, a local company based in Abu Dhabi that focuses on AI-driven drone tech and autonomous aerial logistics. Together with Skyports, LODD has shared designs for vertiports located at strategic sites including Khalifa Port, a major logistics hub planned to handle cargo deliveries through both crewed and uncrewed aircraft, and a revamped facility on Yas Island’s heliport. This setup will support both passenger eVTOL flights and helicopter services. The move to combine autonomous cargo with passenger flights really shows Abu Dhabi’s ambition to be at the forefront of innovative aerial mobility solutions.
Of course, one key aspect of all this is environmental and urban sustainability. eVTOL aircraft are designed to be much quieter than traditional helicopters, about 100 times quieter, in fact, so they’re much more suitable for densely populated city centers. Plus, being electric-powered, they could significantly cut down carbon emissions linked to air travel. This fits perfectly with the UAE’s broader push towards greener technology and more sustainable transportation models.
Right now, battery technology places some limits on eVTOLs, they’re mainly suited for shorter routes. But, there’s a lot of ongoing progress. Experts expect their range will improve, making possible longer connections, such as flights linking Al Ain with Zayed International Airport or air taxi routes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. These advances might turn eVTOLs from primarily urban connectors into a vital part of the wider transport system, handling not just passengers but cargo too.
Looking ahead, they hope to have the vertiports built and ready for operation by early 2026. This timeline aligns with expected regulatory approvals from the GCAA, which are anticipated in the third quarter of that year. The phased approach makes sense, building safety and scalability into the rollout while keeping an eye on evolving technology and regulations.
Abu Dhabi’s approach really reflects a broader global trend, more cities are exploring eVTOL tech, but the emirate’s strong public-private partnerships and dedicated infrastructure investments could position it as a worldwide leader. By creating this advanced air mobility ecosystem, Abu Dhabi isn’t just improving urban access and reducing congestion; it’s positioning itself as a future-ready hub for sustainable, innovative aviation.
In summary, the vertiport network developed by Abu Dhabi Airports, with support from Skyports and LODD, marks a major step forward in merging cutting-edge transport tech with sustainability efforts. As the technology develops and autonomous logistics expand, the city aims to revolutionize both passenger and cargo transport. It’s really about setting a global benchmark in the fast-growing world of AAM. All in all, Abu Dhabi’s commitment to embracing this future of mobility is clear, reinforcing its position as a leader in environmentally-conscious tech within the aviation industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/abu-dhabis-game-changing-vertiport-network-how-evtol-aircraft-will-revolutionize-travel-in-the-uae/ – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://skyports.net/abu-dhabi-airports-skyports-bring-commercial-aam-abu-dhabi/ – Abu Dhabi Airports and Skyports Infrastructure have announced the development of Abu Dhabi’s commercial vertiport network, marking a significant step in the emirate’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) strategy. The partnership includes the construction of initial vertiport sites at Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport, with plans for over 10 vertiport sites across the emirate. The collaboration aims to integrate electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into Abu Dhabi’s transport system, enhancing connectivity and promoting low-emission travel. Construction is underway, with completion expected in Q1 2026.
- https://www.thenationalnews.com/business/aviation/2025/11/11/abu-dhabi-to-build-10-vertiports-for-air-taxis/ – Abu Dhabi plans to build a network of 10 vertiports to support air taxi and eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) services, as part of the emirate’s push into smart and sustainable air mobility. Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport have been confirmed as key locations within the broader network, with additional sites and inter-city routes to be revealed in later phases. The network will connect key urban, business, and tourism hubs, including Yas Island and Saadiyat. The UAE’s aviation regulator expects to complete certification of air taxis by the third quarter of 2026.
- https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/abu-dhabis-game-changing-vertiport-network-how-evtol-aircraft-will-revolutionize-travel-in-the-uae/ – Abu Dhabi Airports has been awarded a significant mandate to develop a strategic network of vertiports—specialized infrastructure hubs for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This initiative is poised to revolutionize air travel in the emirate, enabling the seamless integration of eVTOL aircraft into the multi-modal transport network of Abu Dhabi. The new vertiport network is expected to reshape how people and goods are transported, introducing an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional air transport methods. The launch of this initiative marks a transformative moment for UAE’s aviation industry, setting the stage for the first eVTOL flights, expected to commence in 2026.
- https://aviationweek.com/aerospace/abu-dhabi-lodd-partners-skyports-unveil-vertiport-concept-uae – Vertiport developer, Skyports, is collaborating with LODD, a UAE-based company specialising in AI-powered drone technology and autonomous aerial logistics, to unveil designs for a vertiport network in Abu Dhabi. Speaking at the event on Tuesday, Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, shared that he expects an RFP for the project to be issued by the government by the end of the month. Subject to approval, he anticipates LODD’s vertiport network could be developed within two years. LODD has already identified key locations for its vertiport network including Khalifa Port, envisioned as a logistics hub, designed to enable seamless cargo deliveries with both manned and unmanned aircraft. A second vertiport development is also planned on Yas Island’s existing heliport, which will be upgraded to support passenger transport with both helicopters and eVTOLs.
- https://aam-me.ae/2025/02/13/skyports-lodd-unveil-vertiport-concept-designs-abu-dhabi-aam-network/ – Skyports Infrastructure and LODD, an Abu Dhabi-based company specialising in AI-powered drone technology and autonomous aerial logistics, have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop vertiport infrastructure in Abu Dhabi. Under the agreement, the companies will establish a vertiport network to integrate electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) operations and autonomous aerial logistics into Abu Dhabi’s transportation ecosystem. As part of the initiative, both companies unveiled vertiport designs for three strategic locations in Abu Dhabi—Al Bateen, Yas Island, and Khalifa Port—with potential future expansion to other Emirates.
- https://www.revolution.aero/news/2025/02/12/skyports-announces-projects-in-saudi-arabia-and-uae/ – Meanwhile, Skyports Infrastructure has unveiled a series of vertiport designs in partnership with Abu Dhabi firm LODD. The designs are set to be developed across three Abu Dhabi locations — Al Bateen, Yas Island and Khalifa Port — and will form the basis of the first vertiport network in the city. Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of LODD, said: “Abu Dhabi serves as a global model for air mobility, thanks to its progressive systems. These vertiports will lay the foundation for a future-ready air mobility network, supporting both commercial eVTOL passenger services and autonomous aerial logistics.”
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative presents recent developments in Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network, with the earliest known publication date being February 11, 2025. ([aviationweek.com](https://aviationweek.com/aerospace/abu-dhabi-lodd-partners-skyports-unveil-vertiport-concept-uae?utm_source=openai)) The most recent publication is from November 11, 2025. ([gulfnews.com](https://gulfnews.com/business/aviation/abu-dhabi-airports-to-build-10-stations-for-flying-taxis-across-emirate-1.500341790?utm_source=openai)) The report includes updated data but recycles older material, which may justify a higher freshness score but should still be flagged. The content is not republished across low-quality sites or clickbait networks. The narrative is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. No discrepancies in figures, dates, or quotes were found. No similar content appeared more than 7 days earlier. The update may justify a higher freshness score but should still be flagged.
Quotes check
Score:
9
Notes:
The direct quotes from Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of LODD, and Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports, are consistent with their previous statements. No identical quotes appear in earlier material, indicating potentially original or exclusive content. No variations in quote wording were found.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from a reputable organisation, Skyports Infrastructure, which is a strength. However, the report includes a partnership with LODD, a company based in Abu Dhabi that focuses on AI-driven drone technology and autonomous aerial logistics. While LODD has a public presence, its verification online is limited, which introduces some uncertainty. The report does not mention any unverifiable entities.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative’s claims about Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network align with recent developments, including the announcement of over 10 public vertiports at key urban and transit locations. ([gulfnews.com](https://gulfnews.com/business/aviation/abu-dhabi-airports-to-build-10-stations-for-flying-taxis-across-emirate-1.500341790?utm_source=openai)) The report lacks supporting detail from other reputable outlets, which is a concern. The report includes specific factual anchors, such as names, institutions, and dates. The language and tone are consistent with the region and topic. The structure is focused and relevant to the claim. The tone is formal and resembles typical corporate language.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): OPEN
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The narrative presents recent developments in Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network, with no significant discrepancies or recycled content. However, the limited verification of LODD introduces some uncertainty. The lack of supporting detail from other reputable outlets is a concern. While the language and tone are appropriate, the overall assessment remains open due to these factors.
