Joby Aviation partners with Abu Dhabi to establish Electric Air Taxi Ecosystem

Abu Dhabi, UAE (Urban Transport News): Joby Aviation, Inc. has inked a multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Municipalities and Transport - Abu Dhabi (DMT), the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED), and the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) to lay the foundation for establishing and expanding air taxi services in Abu Dhabi and beyond. The agreement, signed at the DRIFTx international platform in Abu Dhabi, signifies the comprehensive support extended to Joby as part of its participation in the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster.

This collaboration underscores Joby's commitment to the UAE and complements its existing endeavors, including its exclusive right to operate air taxi services in Dubai, slated to commence next year. The agreement also paves the way for potential inter-emirate air taxi services, such as between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, emphasized Abu Dhabi's ambition to lead the advancement of advanced mobility solutions, envisioning a future where the sky unlocks endless possibilities. The strategic partnership with Joby is poised to shape the future of transportation, offering a glimpse of innovative air mobility solutions.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, highlighted the significance of developing an advanced industrial and manufacturing base in alignment with Abu Dhabi's economic diversification agenda. The partnership with Joby underscores the success of Abu Dhabi's strategy in fostering a competitive industrial landscape.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the alignment of the MoU with the Tourism Strategy 2030, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable growth in the travel and tourism sector. The introduction of air taxi services aligns with efforts to enhance accessibility and elevate visitor experiences across the Emirates.

JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, citing the momentum behind the adoption of clean flight across the UAE. Joby looks forward to delivering exceptional experiences for customers in Abu Dhabi and unlocking the potential for zero-emissions flight between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Joby's all-electric aircraft, showcased at the DRIFTx event in Yas Marina, is designed to revolutionize air travel with zero operating emissions and a low acoustic footprint. With a maximum range of 100 miles, the aircraft offers fast and clean air travel within Abu Dhabi and across the wider UAE.

Joby has been collaborating closely with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the UAE to establish a regulatory framework for air taxis, ensuring safety and compliance with international standards. The company's recent milestones underscore its commitment to advancing sustainable aviation solutions globally.

DRIFTx, held at Yas Marina Circuit from April 25-26, 2024, is a premier platform dedicated to advancing smart, autonomous, and sustainable mobility. Supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Abu Dhabi's SAVI cluster, DRIFTx serves as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the mobility sector.