A compact corridor of highways links the UAE’s two brightest urban stages: Dubai’s glass-and-glitter skyline and Abu Dhabi’s measured cultural landmarks. Travelers benefit from a dense palette of road-based options in 2025 — from the budget-friendly InterCity Bus and complimentary airline coaches offered by Emirates and Etihad Airways, to app-based rides with Careem or Uber, and private hires. Each choice balances cost, time and convenience: buses deliver the cheapest fares and predictable schedules; taxis and private drivers promise door-to-door speed; self-drive opens routes to off-the-beaten-path sites like Al Ain or the Eastern coast. Recent improvements, such as the AUH Express coach and clearer airport shuttle codes (book ZVJ for Emirates shuttle or XNB for Etihad coach), make airport transfers more reliable. For planners, the deciding factors are clear: number of passengers, luggage, desired stops and whether the journey must connect smoothly to DXB or Zayed International Airport (AUH). This guide maps the practical realities — distances, times, fares and the small operational details that often determine whether a day trip feels effortless or rushed.
En bref:
- Distance varies between ~140–160 km depending on start/end points; driving typically takes 1h15–1h40.
- Cheapest option: InterCity Bus at 25 AED one-way; good for solo travellers on a budget.
- Fastest private option: RTA Taxi, Careem or Uber for door-to-door service (expect ~275–350 AED).
- Airport links: AUH Express (Ibn Battuta AUH) for ~35 AED; airline shuttles from Emirates/Etihad are free but operate to downtown stops, not between airports.
- Future outlook: Etihad Rail passenger services remain planned; rail will reshape journeys when launched.
How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai — distances, driving times and real-world examples
The measured separation between the two emirates depends on origin and destination points. From central points it typically reads around 140–160 kilometres. For many visitors the headline travel time is what matters: a continuous drive on the E11 or E20 often takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes, while public transport and transfers can extend that to two or three hours.
Example scenario: a group leaving Dubai Marina for Abu Dhabi Corniche will usually plan for ~90–110 minutes on the road; a traveler starting in outer Dubai neighborhoods may add 20–30 minutes. Urban sprawl means endpoints affect both distance and duration.
| Route (typical) | Distance (approx.) | Typical driving time | Public transport time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Marina → Abu Dhabi Corniche | ~150 km | 1h15–1h30 | 1.5–2.5h (bus + local transfer) |
| Dubai Mall area → Al Wahda / Al Wathba | ~140 km | 1h10–1h25 | 1.5–2h |
| Ibn Battuta → Mussafah | ~160 km | 1h20–1h40 | 1.75–2.25h |
- Tip: choose start and end points deliberately — airport transfers need different planning than city-center hops.
- Insight: highway speed limits and traffic peaks (morning/evening rush) make a 20–30 minute swing plausible.
Public transport options: InterCity Bus, AUH Express and free airline shuttles
Public transport offers high value for independent travelers. The InterCity Bus network connects Dubai (Al Ghubaiba and Ibn Battuta) with Abu Dhabi Central and Mussafah, with fares at 25 AED one-way. For airport-bound passengers, the AUH Express coach (Ibn Battuta Zayed International Airport) provides a direct service for around 35 AED, simplifying transfers to AUH without routing to Al Wadha.
Airlines add another layer: Emirates and Etihad Airways operate complementary shuttle coaches for ticketed passengers, but these stop at downtown offices rather than directly at the alternate airport. Booking codes matter: request ZVJ for Emirates shuttle inclusion to Abu Dhabi or XNB when using Etihad’s coach to Dubai; otherwise seats can’t be guaranteed.
| Service | Departure points (Dubai) | Arrival (Abu Dhabi) | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| InterCity Bus E100 | Al Ghubaiba | Al Wahda Central | 25 AED | ~120 min; pay cash or NOL in Dubai (Hafilat not accepted) |
| InterCity Bus E101 / E102 | Ibn Battuta Mall | Al Wahda / Mussafah Shabiya | 25 AED | ~90–115 min; good for Marina/JBR travelers |
| AUH Express coach | Ibn Battuta | Zayed International Airport (AUH) | 35 AED | Direct airport coach; overnight runs may require taxi for last mile |
| Airline shuttles (Emirates/Etihad) | DXB arrival / airline downtown points | Downtown Abu Dhabi / Etihad Travel Mall | Free (for ticketed passengers) | Downtown stops, not airport-to-airport; book using ZVJ/XNB codes |
- Carry small change or a NOL card in Dubai; Abu Dhabi uses Hafilat for local buses.
- Scheduling tip: airline coaches align with flight times — allow an hour buffer for arrivals and several hours pre-departure for outbound services.
- Resource links: detailed route timetables and experiences are available on travel sites such as Family Travel Middle East, Travel UAE Hub and practical trip comparisons at Rome2Rio.
Public transport excels for budget-conscious visitors and those linking to airport flights with standard luggage. It becomes less convenient for multi-stop sightseeing without private transfer arrangements.
Taxis, ride-hailing and private transfers — pricing, tips and regulations
For seamless door-to-door travel, metered taxis and ride-hailing apps dominate. The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority regulates fares within Dubai while the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport governs services in Abu Dhabi. Typical metered fares from DXB to downtown Abu Dhabi range from 275–350 AED; private drivers or pre-booked transfers often quote 350–500 AED depending on vehicle size and extras like car seats.
Rides booked via Careem or Uber may be slightly more expensive than RTA Taxi during peak times, but offer upfront pricing. Be mindful that drivers sometimes request a handover at the emirate border or nearest petrol station — an operational habit driven by local regulations about cross-emirate pickups.
| Option | Estimated cost (one-way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTA Taxi | 275–350 AED | Metered; widely available; regulated | May swap at emirate border; surge pricing in peak |
| Careem / Uber | 300–400 AED | App pricing; vehicle options; easy booking | Higher during demand spikes; possible handover at border |
| Private chauffeur / transfer | 350–500 AED | Pre-booked window; luggage handling; flexible stops | Costlier for solo travelers |
- Book ahead for early-morning or late-night airport transfers to guarantee availability.
- Confirm baggage policy and potential border handovers when reserving a taxi or Careem ride.
- Safety note: business- and first-class passengers on Emirates or Etihad may qualify for complimentary chauffeur services — verify 48+ hours before travel.
Choosing taxis or ride-hailing maximizes convenience for short schedules and multi-stop itineraries; costs rise with comfort and immediacy, so match the option to the trip’s priority.
Self-drive and car hire: practical tips, companies and laws
Self-driving unlocks flexibility for visiting multiple attractions: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Island and coastal routes. Leading international rental brands such as Sixt Rent a Car and Avis operate across both emirates. One-way hires are possible but may incur additional fees. For many visitors, renting from recognized providers reduces friction — international licences are commonly accepted on tourist visas.
Driving in the UAE means adapting to high-speed multilane freeways and local signage. The effective freeway speed can reach 140 km/h in Abu Dhabi, whereas Dubai often signposts 120 km/h with a practical buffer. Tolls (Salik and others) apply; rental firms register vehicles and will charge tolls to the renter.
| Consideration | Advice | Practical cost |
|---|---|---|
| License | Carry an international or home-country driving licence accepted by the rental firm | Free (documentation) |
| Car seat law | Car seats required up to 4 years; bring or rent one | Car seat hire ~20–50 AED/day |
| Tolls & fuel | Fuel is relatively inexpensive; rental company bills tolls post-trip | Fuel: low; Toll surcharges vary |
| One-way fee | Expect extra charge for picking up in one emirate and returning in another | Typically 50–150 AED |
- Practical tip: download the Smart Roads / RTA app for navigation and live traffic alerts.
- Rental advice: compare offers on aggregators before booking; many travelers use Sixt or Avis for consistent insurance and roadside support.
- Driving style: keep right unless overtaking; lanes move fast and merging requires assertiveness paired with caution.
Self-drive wins on autonomy and allows tailored day trips; it requires comfort with regional driving norms and attention to rental terms and tolls.
Tours, attractions and the future: day trips, Yas shuttles and Etihad Rail prospects
Guided tours provide a streamlined option for seeing highlights without logistic chores. Day-trip operators commonly bundle the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Emirates Palace with transport. Families targeting Yas Island’s theme parks benefit from dedicated shuttles running from Dubai — a cost-effective way to spend a full day without driving. Tour pricing varies widely; group minivan tours often land in the $50–$200 per person range depending on inclusions.
Longer-term change is on the horizon: Etihad Rail aims to integrate passenger services across the Emirates and beyond. While a passenger line between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is not yet operative, the project promises a future high-capacity link that will reshape regional mobility.
| Option | Typical cost | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organized day tour | $50–$200 per person | Visitors wanting guided commentary and multiple stops | Comfortable; check inclusion/exclusion of entrance fees |
| Yas theme park shuttle | Often free from selected Dubai points | Families and thrill-seekers | Check operator timetable in advance |
| Future rail (Etihad Rail) | To be determined | Commuters and large-volume travellers | Will reduce travel times and road congestion when operational |
- Tour selection: read recent reviews and compare durations; day tours are efficient but can feel rushed for art and museum visits.
- Yas tip: park shuttles from Dubai remove parking stress and often include park entry specials; check operator details.
- Further reading: planning resources and trip ideas at Foot on the Road, practical comparisons at Best for Travelers, and cultural pointers via Dubai Shadows.
Tours are persuasive choices for first-time visitors or groups; they reduce friction and concentrate time on experiences rather than logistics.
Practical resources and local tips for a better trip
- Check Dubai Roads and Transport Authority pages for bus timetables and Salik updates.
- Consult the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport for local transit rules and parking guidance in Abu Dhabi.
- Compare travel write-ups and itineraries on sites like Dubai Beachin, Travel UAE Hub and in-depth guides at SolidCars.
- For stay and seasonal planning, explore accommodation and timing advice at Where to stay in Dubai, Where to stay Abu Dhabi and Visiting Dubai in January.
- Discover unusual activities and event timing at Explore Dubai’s unique side and seasonal highlights like New Year’s Eve or things to do in November.
What is the cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
The InterCity Bus is the budget option at approximately 25 AED one-way. It departs from Al Ghubaiba and Ibn Battuta and connects to Al Wahda and Mussafah in Abu Dhabi. Ticketing accepts cash or a Dubai NOL card; note Abu Dhabi uses Hafilat for local buses.
Are there free airline buses between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Emirates and Etihad Airways operate complimentary shuttle coaches for their passengers, but they stop at downtown offices rather than providing a direct airport-to-airport transfer. Book using the special codes (ZVJ for Emirates shuttle to Abu Dhabi; XNB for Etihad coach to Dubai) to guarantee a seat.
How much does a taxi cost from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Expect a metered RTA Taxi fare roughly between 275–350 AED. App-based services like Careem or Uber often cost a similar amount, fluctuating with demand. Pre-booked private transfers range from 350–500 AED.
Is it worth renting a car for a day trip between the cities?
Self-drive is ideal for groups or travellers aiming to visit multiple, spread-out attractions. Rental brands such as Sixt Rent a Car and Avis provide coverage and options; factor in one-way fees, tolls, and local driving conditions before booking.
When will a train link be available between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Etihad Rail plans to introduce passenger services that will connect major Emirates, but no precise passenger-launch date has been confirmed. Until then, road-based transport (buses, taxis, coaches) remains the operative network.
