Abdul Latif Jameel, a leading diversified business group in the Middle East, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Joby Aviation, a U.S.-based pioneer in electric air taxis. This strategic partnership explores the distribution of Joby’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Saudi Arabia.
The agreement sets the stage for the potential delivery of up to 200 eVTOL aircraft, along with support services, in a deal valued at around $1 billion. It represents a major step toward transforming how people travel in the Kingdom.
A Shared Vision for the Future of Mobility
This collaboration aligns with both companies’ long-term mission to create cleaner, safer, and more efficient transport solutions. Their focus is on bringing advanced air mobility to the region, improving passenger experiences, and supporting environmental sustainability.
- ✅ Up to 200 eVTOL aircraft for regional distribution
- ✅ $1 billion+ potential value in future services and support
- ✅ Zero-emission aircraft for urban and inter-city travel
- ✅ Four-passenger capacity with speeds up to 200 mph
- ✅ Lower noise and higher comfort than traditional helicopters
Notably, the Jameel family invested in Joby’s Series C funding round in 2020, which was led by Toyota Motor Corporation, showing a strong commitment to innovative mobility solutions.
Supporting Saudi Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia is rapidly advancing its mobility and smart city goals under Vision 2030. With this partnership, Abdul Latif Jameel and Joby Aviation aim to accelerate the shift to on-demand, connected, and sustainable transportation.
Hassan Jameel, Vice Chairman of Abdul Latif Jameel Saudi Arabia, emphasized:
“Saudi Arabia is entering a new era of mobility — one that’s shared, sustainable, and technologically advanced. We’re proud to collaborate with Joby to help reshape air travel in the Kingdom.”
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, added:
“Together with Abdul Latif Jameel, we’re taking America’s electric aviation leadership global. This partnership is about building the future—not just dreaming about it.”
Focus Areas and Next Steps
Initially, the partnership will concentrate on Saudi Arabia, where Abdul Latif Jameel has a strong operational footprint and deep regional expertise. Both companies plan to explore:
- ✅ Aircraft sales and distribution in key cities
- ✅ Air taxi service launches in urban centers
- ✅ After-sales services like MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul)
- ✅ Pilot training programs to build local talent
- ✅ Job creation and skills development for Saudi nationals
This collaboration also includes potential support for Joby’s first commercial launch in Dubai by 2026, a step that further connects the Gulf region with cutting-edge air mobility technologies.