UAE Customers Can Reserve Tesla's New Roadster, With Top 'Flying' Model Requiring Invitation

Tesla has initiated the ordering process for its next-generation Roadster in the United Arab Emirates, though the highly anticipated “flying” version is not yet available. The new Roadster, recently unveiled by Tesla CEO Elon Musk during a demonstration in Texas, will be offered in three distinct models: Performance, Thrust, and Rocket.

Customers in the UAE can secure the Performance model with an initial refundable deposit of Dh20,000 (approximately $4,847), followed by an additional Dh190,000 within a 10-day period. The more powerful Thrust variant requires the same initial payment, with a subsequent Dh1 million due within 10 days. Tesla has clarified that the car's integrated thrusters are solely for enhancing acceleration and do not enable actual flight.

The Rocket model, which features SpaceX-made thrusters, was showcased demonstrating its ability to “fly” last week. This top-tier version is available by invitation only and is not currently offered in the UAE. The method by which Tesla will determine eligibility for this exclusive version remains undisclosed. It is important to note that all payments made are considered deposits, as the final pricing for these models has not yet been finalized.

Tesla aims to commence production of these next-generation vehicles in 2028. The company has stated that the availability of the Rocket model is contingent upon domestic laws and regulations, and its configuration may not be offered in all regions.

The purported “flying” capabilities of the Rocket Roadster have ignited discussions regarding its legality on public roads, its potential classification as an aircraft, and the necessary approval processes. The prospect of flight introduces a separate set of legal considerations. UAE law mandates that aircraft operating within the Emirates must adhere to stringent registration, licensing, and airworthiness requirements, with significant penalties for non-compliance.

However, the UAE is actively developing regulations and infrastructure to accommodate flying taxis. In July, the General Civil Aviation Authority granted certification for Dubai's first purpose-built commercial vertiport designed for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. While the UAE possesses distinct legal frameworks for road vehicles and aircraft, a specific approval framework for a dual-purpose vehicle like the Rocket Roadster has not yet been publicly established.

Federal regulations in the Emirates require all vehicles to be registered and licensed, meet approved technical and safety standards, and pass inspections as part of the registration process. These regulations also mandate approval for substantial modifications to the body, chassis, or engine power, though this typically pertains to aftermarket modifications rather than factory-built vehicles. The relevant authority has also issued operating procedures for aircraft at Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen Executive Airport. Nevertheless, these existing frameworks do not automatically guarantee permission for a vehicle designed for both road and air travel, such as the Rocket Roadster, to operate. The Roadster would still need to comply with UAE road regulations, and the Rocket version is expected to necessitate specific aviation approvals.