GHD-designed vertiport to launch in Dubai, advancing the future of urban air mobility

Dubai, UAE, 10 December 2024 – GHD, commissioned by Skyports, has designed the UAE’s first dedicated vertiport at Dubai International Airport. This ambitious project, a key step toward Dubai’s aerial taxi network, is set to launch by 2026 and will be among the world’s first to integrate complete aerial taxi flight operations and passenger amenities within a single, purpose-built facility.

The development, endorsed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the World Government Summit 2023, will support Dubai’s vision for urban aerial transport, following the definitive agreement signed at the 2024 World Government Summit.

GHD was selected by Skyports to design the vertiport infrastructure and supporting facilities as part of Skyports’ partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai and aerial taxi manufacturer Joby to deliver a network of vertiports, and launch eVTOL services across the Emirate by 2026.

Key design elements include:

• Integrated vertiport facility: The G+3 vertiport will be equipped with two landing pads for eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft, complete with eVTOL charging facilities.
• Passenger services and Back of House facilitates: The terminal provides dedicated passenger accommodation and essential facilities to support flight operations (including charging equipment), and general operations.
• Multideck carpark: A G+2 carpark providing essential vehicle parking solutions for passengers.

Leveraging its multidisciplinary expertise, GHD applied a holistic approach to meet the project's ambitious goals and Dubai’s vision for advanced transportation:

• Iconic, replicable design language: GHD developed a bold, modern, and flexible design that honours the facility’s operational requirements while creating a new, replicable design that complements Dubai’s existing transportation services and sets its own iconic design language. 
• Holistic design services: From concept to construction, GHD’s multidisciplinary team worked on a tight schedule to deliver a landmark piece of infrastructure that will be instrumental in realising Dubai’s aerial taxi network by 2026.
• Cutting-edge engagement in aerial taxi support: Working closely with suppliers, GHD drove design solutions that understand and tackle challenges and opportunities to heavily built-up urban environments presented by the introduction of aerial taxis.
  

About GHD

GHD is a leading professional services company operating in the global markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Committed to a vision to make water, energy, and communities sustainable for generations to come, GHD delivers advisory, digital, engineering, architecture, environmental and construction solutions to public and private sector clients. Established in 1928 and privately owned by its people, GHD’s network of 11,000+ professionals are connected across 160 offices located on five continents.