JOBY
UBER
Dubai says, ‘Okay, show me’
Joby Aviation and Uber are pushing ahead with plans to launch eVTOL air-taxi service in Dubai by 2026. That sounds flashy because it is — but it also matters because aviation is one of those businesses where a single real-world rollout can do more for credibility than a dozen slick marketing decks.
Why this isn’t just a cool press release
For Joby, Dubai is more than a pin on a map. It’s a proving ground. If the company can make aerial ridesharing work there, it gets a much better argument that this isn’t just a futuristic hobby for rich people who hate traffic.
Uber’s role here keeps the consumer-facing side interesting, too. The company has been trying to stay relevant in future mobility without having to build aircraft in a garage like some billionaire with too much time and a podcast.
What investors should watch
- whether the Dubai launch timetable actually holds
- regulatory approvals and infrastructure buildout
- how quickly Joby can turn partnerships into real bookings, not just headlines
Big picture: Joby doesn’t need everyone to believe in flying taxis. It just needs one market to stop laughing and start paying.