Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the two most popular emirates with visitors, and travellers staying in one often plan a trip to the other. The distance between them is short, but first-timers naturally wonder: what is the easiest and cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
There are several ways to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, from a budget bus to a fast taxi or a comfortable private transfer. We'll go through each option in detail so you can choose the one that suits you best.
- How long is the journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
- Bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
- Taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
- Private transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
- Car hire: a convenient way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
- Day trips from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
- FAQ
- What is the distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and how long does the journey take?
- How do I get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus?
- How much is a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
- Can I book a transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
- How do I hire a car to drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
- How do I get from Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi?
- How can I get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for free?
How Long Is the Journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi lies 130–150 kilometres south-west of Dubai. Journey times depend heavily on the type of transport you choose and on the traffic, and average between 1.5 and 2.5 hours:
- by car or taxi: 1.5–2 hours;
- by intercity bus: 2–2.5 hours;
- by bus and metro combined: 2.5 hours or more.
Travel time also depends on where you start in Dubai and where you are heading in Abu Dhabi. The trip from Dubai International Airport (DXB) takes about 1.5 hours, while from Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which is closer to Abu Dhabi, it takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes. At rush hour and on Fridays, the highways are usually busier, which adds to the journey time.
Bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
The cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is by intercity bus. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs 25 UAE dirhams per person. Buses run to a timetable from Dubai's two main bus stations:
| Route | Departs from (Dubai) | Terminates at (Abu Dhabi) | Notes |
| E100 | Al Ghubaiba bus station, next to the metro station of the same name | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | Departures every 10–25 minutes |
| E101 | Ibn Battuta bus station | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | Convenient for visitors staying in western Dubai |
A bus ticket from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs 25 dirhams. You can only pay with a Nol transport card, as drivers do not accept cash. You can buy and top up a card at ticket machines in metro and bus stations.
At the bus stations, you will also find 7-seater minivans that leave for Abu Dhabi as soon as they are full. The fare is around 35 dirhams per person.
Taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
A taxi is a quick and convenient way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. The journey takes about 1.5–2 hours and costs roughly 250–350 UAE dirhams per car. It is the best option for groups of up to 4 people when speed and comfort matter.
It's worth thinking carefully about which type of taxi to take from Dubai to Abu Dhabi:
| Taxi type | Notes | Approximate fare | How to book |
| Official RTA taxi | Metered beige cars, government-regulated, with fixed rates | 280–340 AED | Via the RTA Dubai app or Careem |
| Ride-hailing apps | Price shown upfront, choice of car class, card payment | Similar to RTA, sometimes slightly higher | Via the Uber or Careem app |
A taxi fare from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is made up of several components:
- the starting fare is usually 25 dirhams;
- the distance charge is 2.1–2.5 dirhams per kilometre, depending on the type of taxi;
- extra charges may apply for crossing the border between emirates and for toll roads.
It is best to carry some cash in dirhams, although almost all taxis also accept cards. Make sure the driver resets the meter and switches it on at the start of the trip.
Haven't got an eSIM with unlimited data for the UAE yet? You can buy one here.
Don't accept rides from drivers touting for business in the arrivals hall. They are unlicensed operators who charge vastly inflated fares.
Private Transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
A private transfer is a comfortable, hassle-free way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi at a fixed price. The driver will meet you with a name sign at the agreed spot, help with your luggage and drop you right at your hotel door.
Booking a transfer is simple and follows the usual steps:
- Enter your trip details. Choose your pick-up point (Dubai) and destination (Abu Dhabi), the date, the time and the number of passengers.
- Choose a vehicle. You will see a list of available cars in different classes, from economy saloons to minivans for larger groups.
- Pay for your booking. Payment is usually made online by bank card, which locks in the price of your trip.
Once you have booked, you will receive an email confirmation with instructions. At the airport, the driver will wait for you in the arrivals hall or at another agreed spot, holding a sign with your name on it.
Car Hire: A Convenient Way to Get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
Car hire is a great way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and gives you complete freedom to travel as you please.
Rental prices vary depending on the class of car and the season, and you can hire an inexpensive car for $15–20. Often you won't need a deposit or a credit card.
To pick up a car, you will need your passport, a valid national driving licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Car hire in Dubai for your trip to Abu Dhabi frees you from timetables and lets you explore the surrounding area. Stop at scenic spots, travel on your own schedule and change your plans on the go.
Day Trips from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
A day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a great way to get to know the UAE capital in comfort and make the most of your time. Group coach tours start from around 220 dirhams per person, while private tours cost considerably more, from 750 dirhams upwards.
The price usually includes return transfers from your hotel in Dubai, a guide and entrance tickets to some attractions. Meals are usually extra. A standard tour lasts a full day, from 8 to 10 hours.
FAQ
What is the distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and how long does the journey take?
The distance from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is around 150 kilometres, depending on your start and end points. The journey usually takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 2.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport and the traffic. By taxi or hire car you will get there faster, in roughly 1.5–2 hours, while the bus takes about 2–2.5 hours.
How do I get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus?
The fare is 25 UAE dirhams per person. Buses depart from Al Ghubaiba bus station (route E100) and from Ibn Battuta metro station (route E101), and arrive at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, with free Wi-Fi.
How much is a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
A taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs roughly 250–350 UAE dirhams. The price may vary depending on your exact pick-up point and destination, as well as the time of day.
Can I book a transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Yes, you can book a private transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. It is a convenient option, especially for groups or travellers with luggage. Prices start from 380 dirhams for an economy car.
How do I hire a car to drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Rental prices start from 75–100 dirhams per day for an economy car. All you need to do is book the car online. To complete the rental, you will need an International Driving Permit.
How do I get from Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi?
There are no direct buses from Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi, but you can take a taxi or a private transfer. Alternatively, take a shuttle or the metro to Al Ghubaiba or Ibn Battuta bus station and change there for an intercity bus to Abu Dhabi.
How can I get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for free?
Emirates and Etihad Airways passengers can use free express coaches to Abu Dhabi. You must reserve a seat on the shuttle when you book your flight. The Emirates coach departs from Dubai airport, while the Etihad coach leaves from Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.
