The easiest way to travel is by bus or a car lift from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around 25-30 AED. Buses run every 30-40 minutes from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
You’ve got several ways to make this trip. Each works for different budgets and time needs. Let’s break down your options.
By Bus (Cheapest Option)
The public bus is your wallet’s best friend. It’s cheap, reliable, and runs all day.
Head to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai. You can take the metro to Al Ghubaiba station – it’s right there. Look for buses E100 or E101. Both go straight to Abu Dhabi.
Buy your ticket at the counter or use a Nol card. The ride takes about 2 hours without traffic. With traffic, expect 2.5 to 3 hours during rush times.
Buses have air conditioning and comfortable seats. Some even have WiFi. You can relax and watch the desert scenery roll by.
The bus drops you at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. From there, you can catch local buses or taxis to your final spot.
By Taxi or Uber (Fastest Option)
Want speed and comfort? Grab a taxi or book an Uber.
A taxi costs between 250-300 AED one way. Uber runs about the same, sometimes cheaper during off-peak hours. The trip takes 1 to 1.5 hours with normal traffic.
You get picked up from your door and dropped exactly where you need to go. No waiting for buses or carrying luggage through stations.
Split the cost with friends and it becomes reasonable. Four people paying means about 75 AED each.
Book through the Uber or Careem app for fixed prices. This way you know the cost upfront – no surprise charges.
By Rental Car (Most Freedom)
Renting a car gives you total control. You drive when you want and stop where you like.
Rental costs start at 100-150 AED per day for basic cars. Add fuel costs of about 30-40 AED for the round trip.
The route is simple. Take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) heading toward Abu Dhabi. Follow the signs – you can’t get lost. It’s one straight highway most of the way.
Gas stations line the route. Lots of rest stops too. You can grab coffee or use the bathroom whenever needed.
Park at your Abu Dhabi destination and you’re set. Just remember parking fees in Abu Dhabi city centers.
By Shared Shuttle
Some companies run shared shuttles between the cities. These work like middle ground between buses and taxis.
Shuttles cost 40-60 AED per person. They pick up from major hotels in Dubai and drop at Abu Dhabi hotels.
You’ll share the ride with other travelers. The shuttle waits until it fills up, so timing isn’t exact. But it’s more comfortable than a bus and cheaper than a private taxi.
Book online through shuttle company websites. Popular ones include GetYourGuide and various hotel transfer services.
What to Know Before You Go
Bring your passport or Emirates ID. Sometimes there are random checks on the road.
Download offline maps on your phone. Google Maps works great in the UAE. Save the route before you leave in case you lose signal.
Traffic gets heavy during rush hours. Morning rush is 7-9 AM. Evening rush runs 5-8 PM. Plan around these times if you can.
The route has toll gates called Salik. Buses and taxis include this in the price. Rental cars charge it to your credit card later. Each toll costs 4 AED.
Pack water and snacks for bus trips. The bus makes limited stops. You’ll want something to munch on during the 2-hour ride.
Check the weather before going. Sandstorms can slow down all traffic. Summer heat means you’ll want that air conditioning working.
Our Pick
For budget travelers, take the bus. It’s reliable and dirt cheap. You’ll save money for actual fun in Abu Dhabi.
Got more money than time? Grab an Uber or taxi. You’ll arrive fresh and ready to explore.
Traveling with family or a group? Rent a car. The freedom and comfort make it worth the extra cost.
All three options work well. Pick what fits your budget and schedule. Either way, you’ll be in Abu Dhabi before you know it.