Foster + Partners develops concept design for Dubai vertiport terminal

A provisional concept design for a Skyports Infrastructure vertiport terminal, located next to Dubai International Airport (DXB), has been endorsed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the World Government Summit 2023.

Foster + Partners developed the vertiport terminal concept in collaboration with Skyports Infrastructure, the leading designer and operator of vertiport technology for the advanced air mobility (AAM) industry.

The DXB vertiport is one of four initial locations which are currently being considered by Skyports Infrastructure and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The sites form part of a vision for a future electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) infrastructure network that will connect Dubai’s most popular – and populous – areas and provide high-speed, zero-emissions travel. The vertiport network will integrate with existing transportation hubs, including the RTA’s Dubai Metro network and Dubai International Airport.

David Summerfield, Head of Studio, Foster + Partners, said: “We are delighted to have developed a vertiport concept for the emerging AAM industry, which will transform the way people travel in Dubai. The conceptual vertiport connects with Dubai International Airport and the Dubai Metro, to provide seamless, sustainable travel across the city for international and domestic passengers.”

The terminal is situated on an elevated deck to facilitate aircraft take-off and landing. The building wraps around the airfield, connecting the arrival and departure lounges and offering spectacular views of the aircraft and the city beyond. The overhanging roof and façade inclination protects the building from direct sunlight and prevents overheating.

The building’s façade corresponds with the adjacent metro station and its edges are softened with green landscaping. The interior spaces are designed with a refined palette of warm, natural materials to create a comfortable and serene environment.

The RTA and Skyports Infrastructure plan to develop the network of vertiports for air taxi services by 2026.