Dubai is always thinking about the future with its developmental plans and then implantation on time. Learn 4 ways in which Dubai is going to be way ahead of others.
1 Flying Taxi to be launched in 2026
It’s hard to believe, but soon flying vehicles will no longer be just in works of fiction. Dubai is making it happen by introducing flying taxis that will be available soon, cutting travel time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai down to just 30 minutes.
The air taxis will be operated by Joby Aviation, a US-based company that specializes in developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial passenger service. Joby Aviation is expected to start operations of air taxis by 2025 or early 2026.
2 A city of just 20 minutes
This initiative aims to enable residents to conveniently reach their destinations within 20 minutes on foot or by bicycle while promoting sustainable transportation options across the city. As part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, 55 percent of the residents will be placed within 800 meters of mass transit stations, allowing them to access 80 percent of their daily needs and destinations.
Additionally, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has updated its strategic plan for 2024-2030 to develop roads and transport systems that would make living in the 20-minute city more convenient, especially for those who don’t drive.
3 World’s Largest Airport
Dubai is a vibrant city full of towering skyscrapers and bustling crowds. It is also the location of the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International (AMI). The airport’s second phase of expansion was announced on April 28th.
By the time it is completed, it will be five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport (DXB). AMI will be able to accommodate up to 260 million passengers yearly, which will boost tourism in the city even more. Travelers at the new airport can look forward to experiencing technologies never before used in the aviation sector.
The new airport will cover an area of about 70 sq. km, with five parallel runways and five passenger terminals that can house more than 400 aircraft gates. In the next 10 years, it is expected that all operations of DXB will be gradually shifted to AMI.
4 Travelling faster than ever
Dubai residents have a fondness for traveling outside of the city, especially during public holidays. Fortunately, the long-awaited Etihad Rail passenger train is almost ready for operation, which will make traveling between Emirates faster and more convenient.
The passenger train will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, making it easier for residents to travel with comfort and ease. The train’s route will span across Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, as well as the areas of Al Sila and Fujairah, including Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, and Al Dhaid.
According to the Etihad Rail website, construction of the UAE’s National Rail Network is now complete, and commercial operations are in use.
