Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has launched the emirate’s first vertiport network in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) and Abu Dhabi Airports (ADA).
The network will support the launch of air mobility operations across Abu Dhabi through electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The network will comprise more than 10 vertiports integrated into Abu Dhabi’s transport system.
Abu Dhabi Airports leads vertiport infrastructure for air mobility launch
Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport have been confirmed as locations within the network. Further sites and intercity routes will be announced in subsequent phases.
“This step in Abu Dhabi builds upon the ongoing efforts of the General Civil Aviation Authority to align the nationโs aviation infrastructure with the UAEโs strategic vision of adopting an advanced and sustainable air mobility ecosystem. In line with its regulatory and legislative mandate, the GCAA has developed modern regulatory frameworks that enable the integration of eVTOL aircraft into the civil aviation system, while also facilitating the adaptation of existing heliports as part of a comprehensive infrastructure that supports advanced air mobility solutions,” Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA said in a statement.
“What we are witnessing today marks the beginning of a new era, one that reflects a qualitative leap in aviation infrastructure and reaffirms the UAEโs commitment to leading the global shift towards smarter and more sustainable mobility. In collaboration with its partners, the GCAA continues to spearhead this transformation by fostering a flexible and forward-looking regulatory environment that positions the UAE among the first countries worldwide to operate advanced air mobility systems at scale,” he added.
Abu Dhabi Airports has been selected as the anchor investor and will act as the delivery partner. The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) and GCAA will contribute to the development and operation of the network within a regulatory framework.
The network will connect Zayed International Airport, Al Bateen Executive Airport and Yas Island to Saadiyat and Abu Dhabi Island. Each vertiport will be integrated into Abu Dhabi’s transport system, featuring ground transport and digital infrastructure through the systems of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) and the network of Abu Dhabi Airports.
The initiative is part of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI) cluster’s strategy to support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification by deploying technologies, including air mobility solutions.
The vertiport infrastructure will enable eVTOL aircraft to operate across locations in Abu Dhabi, facilitating low-emission travel and improving connectivity.
“This strategic initiative places Abu Dhabi at the forefront of next-generation mobility, exemplifying the power of partnerships between Abu Dhabi Government and the private sector in accelerating future industries. By integrating eVTOL infrastructure into our transport system and anchoring this initiative as part of the SAVI cluster, we are accelerating the deployment of smart and advanced mobility solutions while solidifying the emirateโs position as a leader in future-defining industries,” Badr Al-Olama, Director-General of ADIO explained.
“The launch of Abu Dhabiโs vertiport network marks a strategic step forward in building a future-ready transport system that integrates advanced air mobility solutions. Incorporating this system into the emirateโs infrastructure supports greater connectivity, operational efficiency and low-emission mobility, enhancing quality of life and reinforcing Abu Dhabiโs leadership in advanced air mobility,” he added.
UAE leads air mobility sector with Abu Dhabi vertiport network announcement
“The development of Abu Dhabiโs vertiport network marks a significant milestone in shaping the future of urban mobility. As the regulatory and strategic authority for integrated transport in the emirate, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) is ensuring that advanced air mobility is embedded within a clear governance and operational framework that promotes safety, efficiency and sustainability. This initiative reflects Abu Dhabiโs forward-looking vision for next-generation transport and reinforces its global position as a leader in smart and sustainable mobility,” Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) said.
“As the anchor delivery partner for Abu Dhabiโs vertiport network, Abu Dhabi Airports will be critical in shaping the infrastructure, operations and commercial readiness of advanced air mobility in the emirate. This partnership reflects our long-term commitment to unlocking the future of aviation through innovation, as well as our key role in integrating next-generation mobility solutions into Abu Dhabiโs transport ecosystem. We are proud to collaborate with ADIO and the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) under this transformative partnership, which will leverage our collective strengths and cement Abu Dhabiโs position at the forefront of advanced air mobility,” Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports explained.
