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How to Get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

21 May 2025Vasiliy Alenkov
How to Get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Traveling between Dubai and Abu Dhabi – the two largest emirates in the UAE – is a common journey for tourists and residents alike. The cities sit about 140 km apart (a roughly 90-minute drive), and there are several transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. In this guide, we’ll compare all the major ways to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, including public buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, private car services, and self-drive car rentals. We’ll cover typical travel times, costs, and where to catch each ride, plus some driving tips (tolls, road rules, parking) if you choose to hit the road yourself. By the end, you’ll see why renting a car can be an especially flexible and convenient option for this trip.

By Public Bus (Intercity E100/E101)

Dubai’s RTA intercity buses (like the E100) offer an affordable connection between the two cities, with air-conditioned coaches and luggage storage for travelers. Dubai’s public Intercity Bus service is the cheapest way to travel to Abu Dhabi. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) operates comfortable coach-style buses on two main routes: E100 (from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai) and E101 (from Ibn Battuta Bus Station, near Jebel Ali). Both routes terminate at the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Al Wahda), conveniently located in the city center. Buses run frequently – about every 20–30 minutes throughout the day – so you can usually just show up and catch the next one. No advance booking is required; simply tap your Nol card or buy a ticket at the station and board.

  • Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic. The journey is on major highways and typically smooth, but rush hour can extend it to around 2.5 hours. It’s a good idea to travel outside peak times for a quicker trip.
  • Cost: AED 25 per person, one-way. This flat fare (around $7 USD) makes the bus extremely budget-friendly. (Note: A third route, E102, runs from Dubai to Abu Dhabi’s Mussafah area and Abu Dhabi Airport for AED 15, but it doesn’t go to downtown Abu Dhabi.) Tickets can be bought at the station or paid via Nol card – no cash on board.
  • Where to catch: In Dubai, Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (near the Creek) for E100, or Ibn Battuta Bus Station (next to Ibn Battuta Mall) for E101. Both stations are accessible by Dubai Metro (Al Ghubaiba is near Green Line; Ibn Battuta on the Red Line). In Abu Dhabi, buses arrive at the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, which is a short taxi ride from most attractions. Buses in the reverse direction depart from the same locations.
  • Comfort & amenities: The intercity buses are air-conditioned, with comfy coach seating and luggage storage beneath the cabin. They are used by commuters and tourists alike. There are separate sections (or priority seating) for women and families. Some buses offer free Wi-Fi and USB charging, making the trip more pleasant. Do bring water and snacks for the ride, as there’s no food service on board (but stations have kiosks).
  • Pros & cons: The clear advantage is price – it’s by far the cheapest option to get to Abu Dhabi. The buses are safe, clean, and fairly frequent, making them a reliable choice for budget travelers. However, you’ll be on a fixed schedule and route. Once in Abu Dhabi, you may need to take a local taxi or bus to reach specific sights (the central station is a few kilometers from landmarks like the Corniche or Louvre). If you’re carrying a lot of luggage or traveling with a group, the bus can be less convenient than a door-to-door ride. Overall, for solo travelers or those on a tight budget, the intercity bus is an excellent option for about the price of a coffee.

By Taxi

Dubai’s official taxis (cream-colored cars with colored roofs) can take you directly to Abu Dhabi. It’s a comfortable ride, though costs are higher for the convenience. Hopping in a taxi is the easiest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi point-to-point. Dubai’s RTA taxis are plentiful and operate 24/7. You can hail one on the street, find them at taxi ranks (hotels, malls, etc.), or book via phone or the RTA’s Hala app (through Careem). The cab will pick you up from anywhere in Dubai and drop you at your exact destination in Abu Dhabi – no transfers or waiting for schedules.

  • Travel time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes in normal traffic. Taxis will take the fastest route, usually Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) straight to Abu Dhabi. During off-peak hours the ride can be as quick as ~80–90 minutes. If you travel during rush hour or from a far end of Dubai, it could stretch to 2 hours. The drivers are experienced, but do expect high speeds on the highway (speed limits up to 140 km/h in Abu Dhabi).
  • Cost: Approximately AED 250 – 300 (roughly $70–$82) for a one-way trip. The fare is metered — starting with a base charge (around AED 5 from the street in Dubai, or AED 12 if booked by phone/app) plus distance at about AED 1.8 per km. The final price depends on your exact start/end points and traffic. For example, from Dubai Marina (closer to Abu Dhabi) you might pay around AED 220, whereas from Dubai Airport (farther away) it could be AED 280+. Toll fees (Salik) incurred on the way are added to the meter (typically an extra AED 4–8, see Driving Tips section below). While not cheap, the cost can be reasonable if split between 3–4 passengers.
  • Where to find: You can get a Dubai taxi almost anywhere in the city. Major spots like Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, and the airport always have taxis waiting. If you’re in a less touristic area, you can call the Dubai Taxi dispatch (at 04-2080808) or use the Hala (Careem) app to summon one to your location. For return trips, Abu Dhabi’s silver taxis can bring you back to Dubai (they have a similar meter rate and will charge a small extra fee for leaving Abu Dhabi Emirate).
  • Pros & cons: The big advantage of a taxi is convenience: it’s private and direct. You leave on your own schedule (no need to plan around bus times) and you’ll be dropped right at your hotel or attraction in Abu Dhabi. Taxis are comfortable, air-conditioned sedans (usually a Toyota Camry or similar) with room for up to 4 riders. On the downside, the price is much higher than the bus – you’re paying for the privacy and time saved. If you’re a solo traveler, a taxi is a splurge; but for a group of four, splitting AED 250 four ways can be quite cost-effective. Another consideration is that 90 minutes in a car can be a bit dull – bring a book or enjoy the scenery (you’ll pass desert landscapes and the Abu Dhabi skyline as you approach). Overall, taxis are ideal if you want a door-to-door solution without any hassle and are willing to pay for it.

By Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber/Careem)

Ride-hailing apps offer a modern alternative to taxis in Dubai, with the benefit of easy app booking and cashless payment. Careem (the regional ride-hail service) and Uber both operate in Dubai and can do trips to Abu Dhabi. In practice, Uber and Careem provide similar vehicles to regular taxis – often even the same drivers – but at a different pricing model. If you prefer using an app and knowing the price upfront, this could be your choice.

  • Using Careem: Careem is widely used in the UAE and now even has an Intercity option. Through the app, you can request a ride from anywhere in Dubai directly to an Abu Dhabi address. Careem’s inter-emirate fares are typically fixed by car type. For example, a standard Careem Economy to Abu Dhabi costs around AED 350 (flat rate). Larger vehicles or premium options cost a bit more – Careem Business ~AED 370, Max (SUV/van) ~AED 400. There’s even a Careem Kids (with child seat) for about AED 350, and options to hire a driver by the hour if you plan multiple stops (e.g. ~AED 580 for 5 hours). The benefit of Careem is you know the price upfront, and the driver is dispatched to you. Careem rides can be booked on-demand or scheduled in advance. The cars are usually clean sedans or SUVs, and the service is generally very professional.
  • Using Uber: Uber in Dubai partners mostly with limousine services, so their offerings are often higher-end (and priced accordingly). An UberX or Uber Comfort from Dubai to Abu Dhabi can cost significantly more than a taxi – often in the AED 500–600 range for a basic Uber Comfort ride. For instance, Uber’s estimates show ~AED 507 for a Comfort sedan, ~AED 540 for an UberXL (larger vehicle), and over AED 730 for Uber Black (luxury). These prices can fluctuate with demand (surge pricing if drivers are scarce). While Uber’s cars and drivers are top-notch, the high price means it’s often not the first choice for this trip unless you have loyalty credits or prefer the Uber app experience.
  • Travel time & pickup: Travel time with a ride-hail is the same as by taxi (~1.5 hours), since they follow the same roads. One advantage is you can summon the car to your exact pickup point (e.g. your hotel or Airbnb) via the app, and track its approach. No need to wait outside waving at passing cabs. Both Uber and Careem also allow scheduled rides, which is useful if you need to leave at a specific time (like an early morning departure).
  • Pros & cons: Using a ride-hailing app is all about convenience and comfort. You get a private ride just like a taxi, with the ease of app booking and cashless payment (your fare is charged to your card, so no worrying about having cash for a long ride). The apps also let you rate drivers and have customer support if anything goes wrong. On the downside, the cost is generally high – usually on par with or higher than regular taxis. Careem’s Economy option (around AED 350) is a bit more than a street taxi, essentially a premium for the convenience. Uber’s options are even pricier in many cases. Also, in some cases the driver might have to pay tolls or permit fees to enter the other emirate, which they usually handle, but it’s good to ensure intercity rides are allowed in the app (Careem’s dedicated intercity service covers this). In summary, if you’re app-savvy and don’t mind paying extra for an easier booking process, Careem/Uber can be a great door-to-door solution. But budget-conscious travelers might stick to the bus or a normal taxi, as those offer similar travel times at a fraction of the price.

By Private Car Service (Chauffeur & Transfers)

If you’re looking for a more exclusive or tailored journey, you can book a private car service to go from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Many car rental agencies and travel operators offer chauffeur-driven transfers. This ranges from standard cars with drivers (similar to Uber/Careem but arranged outside of an app) to luxury limousine services. It’s a popular choice for business travelers, families who need larger vehicles, or anyone who wants a set price and a bit more comfort.

  • What it is: Essentially, you hire a car and professional driver for a one-way or round-trip transfer. You can arrange this through companies like Blacklane, local limo services, hotel concierge desks, or specialized transfer companies. Often the vehicles are higher-end (e.g. Lexus, Mercedes, or luxury vans) and the service includes things like meet-and-greet at your location, help with luggage, and maybe water/Wi-Fi on board.
  • Cost: The price for a private transfer is quoted in advance, usually based on vehicle type. For a standard sedan (3-4 passengers), expect roughly AED 300–500 one way. For example, some online transfer services list around $100–$120 (USD) for a Dubai-to-Abu Dhabi sedan transfer, which is about AED 370–440. Larger vehicles (like a 6-seater van or SUV) might cost around AED 500–600. Prices can vary, so it pays to shop around or ask your hotel for rates. While this is more expensive than a city taxi, remember it’s a premium service – you’re getting a dedicated driver and often a nicer car.
  • Travel time & experience: Plan on ~1.5 hours travel time, same as driving yourself. The advantage is the experience is entirely tailored to you – the driver will pick you up at the agreed time/place (airport pickup often included if you’re going straight from DXB to Abu Dhabi), assist with any needs, and you can relax in a plush vehicle. If you have kids or special requirements (car seats, multiple stops, etc.), these can usually be accommodated if arranged in advance. It’s essentially like taking an Uber Black but booked privately.
  • Pros & cons: The comfort and convenience are top-notch – you don’t have to navigate or drive, and you’re guaranteed a quality vehicle. It’s door-to-door and often the drivers are very knowledgeable (they might act a bit like a tour guide, pointing out sights or adapting to your schedule if you want to stop en route). This can be great for first-time visitors or VIP travel. The obvious con is cost: it’s one of the most expensive options per person unless you have a full car of people to split the fare. Also, it requires a bit of planning (you should book at least a day ahead, or more during busy periods). Unlike taxis or apps, you can’t just decide on a whim and instantly get a private chauffeur – though short-notice bookings can sometimes be done. In summary, private car services are ideal if you value maximum comfort and personalization and are willing to pay a premium for it. For most tourists, this might not be necessary, but it’s a fantastic option for those who want a stress-free journey without any of the hassle of driving or finding a cab.

By Self-Drive Car Rental

Renting a car and driving yourself from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a popular and highly recommended option – especially for tourists who want flexibility. With your own wheels, you can set the schedule, make stops, and explore beyond just the two cities. The drive is straightforward (mostly a straight-line highway through the desert), and rental rates in the UAE are quite reasonable. RentRadar.ae makes it easy to find a great deal on a rental car in Dubai, and you can even arrange one-way rentals to Abu Dhabi if needed. Let’s look at why self-drive might be the best choice for your Dubai–Abu Dhabi trip.

  • Travel time & route: Driving yourself takes about 1 hour 30 minutes on average, covering ~140 km. The main route is Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), the multi-lane highway that connects the emirates. Leaving Dubai, you’ll pass through Jebel Ali and then hit open highway towards Abu Dhabi. About 2/3 of the way, you’ll cross the border into Abu Dhabi Emirate (there’s a roadside gate sign but no stopping required). Closer to Abu Dhabi city, you’ll start seeing signs for various suburbs, and you can follow directions to your specific destination (City Center, Yas Island, etc.). The road quality is excellent and well-marked in English and Arabic. Pro tip: Start with a full tank of fuel (petrol is relatively cheap in the UAE, around AED 3.5 per liter currently), and consider a quick stop at the Last Exit food truck park on E11 (around midway) if you want a snack or restroom break.
  • Cost of renting: Renting a car in Dubai can be very affordable. Small economy cars start as low as AED 50–60 per day in Dubai, especially if you book online in advance. For example, you might find a Mitsubishi Attrage (compact sedan) for around AED 55/day, or a Nissan Versa around AED 110/day. These prices often include basic insurance and unlimited mileage. Larger vehicles like SUVs are also available – e.g. a Nissan Kicks (compact SUV) for roughly AED 135/day – which can be great for families. Even a luxury car can be rented if you fancy (though of course at higher rates). Using a platform like RentRadar.ae, you can compare hundreds of rental offers across 700+ local companies to get the best price. Don’t forget to factor fuel (a round trip to Abu Dhabi and back might use about 15–20 liters, ~AED 50–70) and tolls (see below) into your budget. But even with those, renting a car for a day often comes out cheaper than two one-way taxis, especially if you have multiple people. One-way rentals are also possible – many agencies allow you to pick up in Dubai and drop off in Abu Dhabi. Some may charge a drop-off fee, but others do it free or for a small surcharge. This is super handy if you plan to stay in Abu Dhabi or continue your journey onward.
  • Booking and pickup: You’ll need a valid driver’s license (for tourists, an International Driving Permit is recommended along with your home license, unless you’re from a GCC or a few other approved countries) and a credit card for the security deposit. Booking in advance is wise, especially in peak tourist season. With RentRadar, you can search and reserve a car online for pickup on your desired date. Cars can be picked up at numerous locations – downtown Dubai, the airport, or even delivered to your hotel in some cases. Make sure to specify if you want to drop in Abu Dhabi. When you get the car, do a quick inspection for any existing scratches and ensure the paperwork (insurance, registration) is in the glovebox. Also clarify how tolls (Salik) will be charged to you – typically the rental company will deduct toll fees from your deposit or charge your card after return (usually AED 4 or 6 per toll gate crossing, see Driving Tips).
  • Flexibility & benefits: The biggest reason to rent a car is freedom. You can depart Dubai whenever you like – early morning to make the most of the day, or later if you want to sleep in. On the way, you might choose to stop at attractions that buses or taxis would skip. For instance, you could detour to Dubai Parks and Resorts (near Jebel Ali), or upon reaching Abu Dhabi, drive straight to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for an awe-inspiring first stop. In Abu Dhabi, having a car lets you easily hop between sights like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace, Corniche, Yas Island attractions (Ferrari World, etc.) at your own pace. No waiting for cabs or dealing with summer heat on public transport. If something catches your interest – even a scenic viewpoint or a beach – you can pull over and enjoy. As one travel guide puts it, renting a car lets you “drive on your own terms, stop for scenic photos, and discover hidden spots that tours might miss”. In terms of comfort, you have your own private space for the trip, can play your music, and store bags or snacks as needed. This is especially useful for families with kids (no worrying if they make noise on a bus) or if you have lots of gear.
  • Cost comparison: For a solo traveler, a rental car will cost a bit more than a bus, but you’re gaining time and convenience. For a group of 2–5 people, renting can actually be cheaper per person than any other option. Imagine you rent a car for AED 100 and spend another ~AED 100 on fuel and tolls round-trip – that’s AED 200 total. Split between four people, it’s AED 50 each, which is half the cost of the bus per person and far below the AED 60–75 each would pay in a taxi. Plus you get the intangible value of door-to-door service and sightseeing freedom. Unlimited mileage on most rentals means you don’t pay per km, so a Dubai–Abu Dhabi drive is no issue. Just be sure to return the car on time to avoid extra day charges (or extend if needed).
  • Pros & cons: The pros of self-drive are numerous: full flexibility in schedule and stops, comfort and privacy of your own vehicle, potential cost savings for groups, and the ability to carry luggage and souvenirs easily. It really turns the journey into part of the adventure – you could even plan a mini road-trip, visiting places en route or in the outskirts of Abu Dhabi. You also avoid the hassle of hailing cabs or sitting next to strangers; it’s just you and your travel companions. Another benefit is that you’re not limited to Abu Dhabi city – with a car you could venture to nearby spots like Saadiyat Island or even further (Al Ain or Dubai backroads) if you wanted to explore more. On the cons side: you do have to drive – which for some is a joy, but for others, dealing with traffic or navigation in a foreign country can be stressful. Dubai and Abu Dhabi drivers can be fast, and highways are large (4-6 lanes each way), so you need to be a confident driver. Parking is another consideration (though plentiful, it might be paid – more on that below). Also, renting requires going through the paperwork (license checks, deposit holds) which is a bit of extra effort compared to just hopping on a bus. Lastly, if you’re only going one-way and not returning to Dubai, a one-way rental might limit your choices of providers or incur a fee. Despite these minor drawbacks, many tourists ultimately find that renting a car is the most rewarding way to travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, given the convenience and experience it offers.

Car Rental Examples: To illustrate the range of rental options, here are a couple of examples available via RentRadar.ae: you could get an economy sedan like a Mitsubishi Attrage for about AED 55 per day – a great budget choice. If you prefer an SUV for more space, a Nissan Kicks 2024 (5-seater crossover) can be rented for roughly AED 135 per day. And there are hundreds of other vehicles from trusted local companies – in fact, RentRadar aggregates 767+ rental companies and over 1,750 cars in the UAE to compare in one place. With such variety, you can easily find a car that fits your needs and budget, making the self-drive option very accessible.

Tips for Driving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (Tolls, Rules, Parking)

If you do choose to drive (either in a rental or your own car), keep these practical tips in mind for a smooth journey:

  • Tolls (Salik & Darb): Dubai uses an electronic toll system called Salik. On the route to Abu Dhabi, you will pass a couple of toll gates. Each Salik gate crossing costs AED 4 during off-peak hours and AED 6 during peak hours. Peak times in Dubai are generally 7:00–10:00am and 4:00–8:00pm Saturday to Thursday (Fridays and public holidays are off-peak all day). If you drive outside rush hours, each toll is only AED 4. Common gates on the Dubai–Abu Dhabi route include one near Jebel Ali. You don’t need to stop at tolls – the system reads the car’s tag automatically. For rental cars, the vehicle will have a Salik tag and the toll fees will be charged to you later (either deducted from your deposit or billed to your card, often with a small admin fee). In Abu Dhabi, there is a similar system called Darb at the entrances to the city. Darb toll gates (on the main bridges into Abu Dhabi Island) charge AED 4 during Abu Dhabi’s peak hours (7–9am and 5–7pm, Mon-Sat). Outside those times (and on Sundays), Abu Dhabi tolls are free. So if you time it right, you might avoid any toll entering Abu Dhabi. If you do pass a Darb gate at peak, the charge will also be auto-deducted via plate recognition – rental companies will catch this too. There’s a daily cap of AED 16 for Darb tolls, but on a short visit you likely won’t hit that. Bottom line: factor in maybe AED 8-16 total for tolls if driving round-trip, or less if off-peak.
  • Road rules & speed limits: The UAE drives on the right-hand side (same as USA/Europe). All occupants must wear seat belts by law. Speed limits are typically 100–120 km/h on Dubai highways and up to 140 km/h on Abu Dhabi’s section of E11. Keep an eye on posted signs. Note that Abu Dhabi enforces speed limits strictly without buffer, meaning 140 is the absolute max (whereas Dubai often has a 20 km/h buffer over the posted limit, e.g. you won’t get fined at 130 in a 120 zone in Dubai – but this buffer does not apply once you enter Abu Dhabi). It’s safest to stick to the limit to avoid hefty speeding fines. There are plenty of speed cameras on E11. Also, cameras will catch you if you tailgate or use the hard shoulder improperly, so drive sensibly. Other key rules: no mobile phone use while driving (unless hands-free), and absolutely no drinking and driving (the UAE has zero tolerance for DUI – even one drink can land you in legal trouble). Keep a safe distance from other cars; some drivers do speed, but you don’t have to follow them – stay right if you’re slower. The journey is basically a straight shot, but once you approach Abu Dhabi city, mind the route signs to get to your specific exit (e.g. Yas Island exit 34, or Abu Dhabi city center via Sheikh Zayed Bridge). If using GPS (Google Maps is reliable here), it will guide you well. It’s also wise to have some cash or credit card handy for fuel – petrol stations are available on both sides of the highway (look for ENOC/EPPCO, ADNOC stations).
  • Parking in Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi city has a lot of paid parking zones under the MAWAQiF system. Street parking is usually not free during the day – you’ll often see turquoise and white curbs (paid zone) or orange and black (no parking). Paid hours are typically 8am to midnight Saturday-Thursday. You pay via machines or a smartphone app by entering your license plate. It costs around AED 2–3 per hour in standard zones. If you’re just visiting for the day, you can park at places you visit: many malls, hotels, and tourist attractions offer free parking. For example, Louvre Abu Dhabi has a free parking lot for museum visitors; Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has a large free underground parking garage with shuttles to the entrance; Yas Island parks (Ferrari World, etc.) have dedicated parking lots at no charge. If you’re going to the Corniche or city downtown, you might need to use street parking or a parking garage (there are many public garages – look for the blue “P” signs – usually costing a few dirhams per hour). Parking enforcement is strict, so don’t skip the payment in paid zones to avoid fines. The good news is that finding a spot is usually not too difficult outside of very busy areas. And on Fridays (weekend), many public parking areas are free all day in Abu Dhabi. Just double-check signs. If unsure, ask a local or guard – people are generally helpful.
  • Other tips: Plan your departure time to avoid worst traffic – leaving Dubai early (before 7am) or after morning rush (after 9am) will make the first part smoother. Similarly, avoid driving back from Abu Dhabi between 5–7pm if you can, as that’s when traffic leaving the capital can build up (and you’d hit Darb tolls then too). Keep some water and snacks in the car, especially in the hotter months, as temperatures can be extreme and hydration is key. Lastly, enjoy the ride! The drive can actually be quite scenic in parts – you’ll see desert dunes, maybe camels in the distance, and impressive city skylines as you approach each city. With your own car, feel free to pull into a rest area or a notable sight along the way.

No matter which transport option you choose, a trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is very doable and straightforward. If you’re on a tight budget or traveling solo, the public bus is a reliable choice that won’t break the bank. For those who value convenience and time over cost, a taxi or ride-hailing car offers door-to-door service and comfort. If you’re seeking a premium experience, private transfers are available to whisk you there in style. And for the explorers at heart, renting a car gives you unmatched freedom to turn the journey into a personalized road trip. Many tourists ultimately opt for a rental car because of the flexibility – you can move at your own pace, make impromptu stops, and even plan an itinerary that includes both Dubai and Abu Dhabi sights in one go. With RentRadar.ae, finding a car rental is easy and affordable, making self-drive a convenient solution for visitors. Whichever way you go, you’ll soon be enjoying the highlights of Abu Dhabi, from marveling at the Grand Mosque’s gleaming domes to strolling the Corniche waterfront – and you’ll have gotten there in the way that best suits your travel style. Safe travels!

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