Abu Dhabi showcases first public eVTOL test flight as part of future mobility strategy

Credit: Abu Dhabi Investment Office

With the backing of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in collaboration with EHang and Multi Level Group (MLG), has successfully conducted a public test flight of a passenger electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The demonstration underscores Abu Dhabi’s leadership in intelligent transport and commitment to shaping the future of urban mobility.

Abu Dhabi showcases pioneering eVTOL flight

The flight marked a key step towards integrating autonomous, zero-emission aerial mobility into everyday life. Overseen by the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the test validated core technologies including performance in hot weather, airspace coordination, route planning and vertiport operations. The event highlighted the emirate’s regulatory and infrastructure readiness for commercial-scale deployment.

“Today’s demonstration embodies Abu Dhabi’s future-forward ambition. Through the vision of the SASC, we’re turning future mobility into tangible nation building,” said His Excellency Badr Al Olama, Director-General at ADIO. “With EHang and MLG, we are proving that urban air taxis will be a part of everyday life, here in Abu Dhabi and around the world.”

EHang confirmed plans to establish a regional presence in Abu Dhabi, including a final assembly line and support facilities. The EH216-S, its flagship pilotless, two-seater eVTOL aircraft, is already certified for passenger use in China. Featuring 16 propellers powered by 32 electric motors, it offers full autonomy, zero emissions and minimal noise, ideally suited for sightseeing, short connections and urban travel.

“This public flight demonstration marks a pivotal milestone in our strategic partnership with EHang,” said Mohamed Salah, CEO of Advanced Mobility Hub (MLG). “This achievement represents a major step toward the commercialisation and widespread adoption of low-altitude passenger aviation services.”

Beyond technical validation, the event played a crucial role in engaging the public and stakeholders, generating excitement and building trust in the technology. Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry cluster is also supporting local production, regulatory development and future-ready infrastructure.

ADIO’s support is central to advancing Abu Dhabi’s innovation-driven, diversified economy, making the emirate a global hub for next-generation transport.

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