Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) have signed a future-forward Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports).
The MoU will see Skyports develop a network of vertiports to connect key attractions across Ras Al Khaimah, aligning with RAKTA’s Strategic Plan 2030.
Under the agreement RAKTA, RAKTDA and Skyports will collaboratively design, develop, and operate Ras Al Khaimah's first eVTOL air taxi ecosystem, with commercial operations set to commence by 2027.
The project will integrate Skyports’ vertiport infrastructure with RAKTA's existing transport network, providing zero-emission transport to Ras Al Khaimah's most popular areas and attractions.
H.E Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, sharing, ""The support we've received from the UAE government and Ras Al Khaimah authorities has been phenomenal, enabling us to innovate at an unprecedented scale and pace. In the next two years, we aim to build the infrastructure and facilities for an electric-powered transit system that will redefine the way tourists experience Ras Al Khaimah. This collaboration also perfectly aligns with our commitment to sustainable tourism. By introducing electric air mobility, we not only enhance accessibility to Ras Al Khaimah’s attractions but also significantly reduce our carbon footprint. This initiative drives us closer to our goal of establishing Ras Al Khaimah as a regional leader in sustainable tourism by 2025.""
H.E Eng. Esmaeel Hasan Al Blooshi, Director General of RAKTA added: “This partnership marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to revolutionise transportation in Ras Al Khaimah. By introducing electric air mobility, we're not just connecting tourists to our attractions, we're forging a sustainable path forward for our Emirate. This innovative project aligns perfectly with our commitment to enhancing accessibility while minimising our environmental impact, following our 2030 strategic plan. Together, we're shaping a brighter, greener future for Ras Al Khaimah.”
Duncan Walker, CEO and founder of Skyports, commented: “We are eager to join forces with the leading transport and tourism organisations in Ras Al Khaimah to launch electric air taxi services in the Emirate. This collaboration further underscores our commitment to providing the essential enabling infrastructure for zero-emission aviation across the UAE. We look forward to contributing our expertise to realise Ras Al Khaimah’s ambitious transport and tourism goals.”