Saudi Arabia’s Abdul Latif Jameel has signed a memorandum of understanding with California-based Joby Aviation to explore bringing electric air taxis to the Kingdom, with potential aircraft deliveries valued at approximately $1 billion over the coming years.
The agreement, announced this week, could see up to 200 of Joby’s electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft distributed through Abdul Latif Jameel’s established network. Hassan Jameel, vice chairman for Saudi Arabia at the family-owned conglomerate, described the partnership as part of the Kingdom’s transition toward “on-demand, shared, connected, and sustainable” mobility.
Joby’s aircraft can carry four passengers at speeds up to 200 mph while producing minimal noise compared to helicopters and zero operating emissions. The company plans to begin passenger service in Dubai by 2026.
“Saudi Arabia is transitioning toward a new era of mobility,” Jameel said. “eVTOL is an exciting and important component of this.”
The deal builds on existing ties between the companies. The Jameel family participated in Joby’s Series C funding round in 2020, which was led by Toyota Motor Corporation—a longtime Abdul Latif Jameel partner.
JoeBen Bevirt, Joby’s founder and CEO, called the collaboration “about bringing America’s leadership in electric air mobility to the world.”
Beyond aircraft sales, the companies plan to explore launching local air taxi services, establishing maintenance and repair operations, and developing pilot training programs. The partnership aims to create employment opportunities for Saudi nationals while supporting Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals.
Abdul Latif Jameel, founded in 1945, operates across more than 35 countries with interests ranging from automotive distribution to renewable energy. The company has served as Toyota’s authorized distributor in Saudi Arabia for nearly 70 years.
The electric aviation sector has attracted billions in investment as companies race to commercialize urban air mobility solutions for congested metropolitan areas.