Skyports and Abu Dhabi Airports to develop vertiport network

Image courtesy Skyports

Announced on 11th November 2025 during DriftX Abu Dhabi, the partnership paves the way for AAM operations in the Emirate, confirming the construction of two initial vertiport sites at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI). Construction of these initial vertiports is already underway and are set to be complete in Q1 2026. More than 10 vertiport sites across the emirate will be developed as a part of the plan. 

Within the partnership Skyports will be providing its extensive experience in vertiport development and operations. Together with Abu Dhabi Airports, the two parties will lead on the design, construction and engineering of each vertiport, alongside the supply and installation of all equipment and technology required for vertiport operations. Once construction is complete, Skyports and Abu Dhabi Airports intend to partner on the operation of each vertiport, including passenger handling, security processing, cargo operations and integration with the eVTOL operators.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: "This partnership represents a pivotal moment for Abu Dhabi’s mobility landscape. By establishing these initial vertiport locations at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI), we are laying the concrete foundations for an emirate-wide Advanced Air Mobility network. This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi Airports’ commitment to embracing innovation and positioning the emirate as a global leader in future transport and connectivity, providing a seamless and strategic link for eVTOL operations between our airports and across the capital.”

Commenting on the announcement, Duncan Walker, CEO, Skyports Infrastructure, said: “This vertiport network is a key component of Abu Dhabi’s AAM strategy. With Skyports already having active vertiport projects under development both in the UAE and beyond, we feel we are in the best position to apply our previous knowledge and expertise and help bring the benefits of AAM to the UAE’s largest emirate. We look forward to being able to facilitate eVTOL flights in Abu Dhabi in the near future.”