Traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is a common journey for both tourists and residents, given the close proximity and abundance of attractions in both cities. In this guide, we’ll explore how to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, highlighting the best transport options, their costs, and what to expect from each method.
Car Rental: Flexible and Independent
Renting a car offers unmatched flexibility when planning how to go from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. You can travel at your own pace and explore multiple areas along the way. Many visitors prefer this option, especially if they intend to move around Dubai freely. The Abu Dhabi to Dubai distance is approximately 140 kilometers, making it a manageable drive under 1.5 hours outside of rush hours.
Make sure you contact our DCR Team to learn more about the best car rental options in UAE and Dubai.
Bus Routes from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
If you are looking for the most economical way to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, the public bus system is your best bet. The E100 bus departs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and arrives at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai in about 2 hours. Other options include the E101 route to Ibn Battuta and the E102 to Al Jafiliya. For air travelers, the Zayed Airport to Dubai bus runs 24/7. E100 bus timings from Abu Dhabi to Dubai are consistent and buses depart roughly every 30 minutes.
Taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai: Door-to-Door Comfort
If comfort and direct travel are priorities, taking a taxi is an excellent option. You can get a cab from your location in Abu Dhabi to anywhere in Dubai. The average Abu Dhabi to Dubai taxi fare ranges between 300 AED to 600 AED depending on distance and traffic. Using ride-hailing apps also allows real-time fare estimates and easy bookings.
Other Travel Options
For premium experiences, consider traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by helicopter. Though pricey, the 30-minute ride offers stunning views. Alternatively, you can travel by boat, either as a leisure cruise or a direct transfer. Despite both cities having airports, no domestic flights are scheduled due to the short distance.
Things to Consider When Planning Your Trip
When figuring out how to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, take traffic, season, and luggage into account. Avoid peak hours to save time, and book your transport in advance when possible. The Abu Dhabi bus station to Dubai is centrally located, making public transport convenient but potentially crowded during holidays.
Cost Breakdown for Travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
- Bus: ~25 AED (one-way)
- Taxi: 300–600 AED
- Car Rental: 100–1000+ AED/day
- Helicopter: 15,000+ AED
- Boat: 300+ AED
Why Travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
Many visitors who start their journey in Abu Dhabi find themselves drawn to Dubai’s dynamic energy, modern architecture, luxury shopping, and world-famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah. Whether for business or leisure, travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai presents a seamless opportunity to experience two of the UAE’s most iconic cities in one trip. Exploring how to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi allows travelers to tailor their journey to budget, timing, and comfort preferences.
Driving Tips and Road Etiquette
When opting to drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, travelers should be aware of UAE driving laws and road etiquette. Speed limits are strictly enforced with radar cameras, and fines for violations can be high. The main route, E11 highway (Sheikh Zayed Road), is a direct and well-maintained road linking the two cities. Travelers are advised to use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates, especially during weekends or public holidays when traffic volumes spike.
Comfort Comparison: Bus vs. Taxi vs. Car Rental
Comparing the comfort levels of each travel method helps determine how to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai effectively. Buses, while affordable, can be crowded during peak hours and may have limited luggage space. Taxis provide private, door-to-door service, making them ideal for travelers with more baggage or those looking to avoid public stops. Car rentals strike a balance between freedom and cost, and also offer privacy with the ability to explore hidden gems along the route.
E100 and E101 Bus Routes in Detail
The E100 bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai runs from the central bus station and terminates at Al Ghubaiba, near Dubai Creek. This route is preferred by travelers heading to Deira or Bur Dubai areas. On the other hand, the E101 bus reaches Ibn Battuta Mall, which is closer to Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Understanding the drop-off points is crucial when deciding how to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai based on your final destination.
Using the Abu Dhabi to Dubai Transport Network with Nol Cards
Passengers can use Nol cards on certain intercity buses, which provide added convenience and faster boarding. These smart cards can be recharged online or at ticket vending machines and are valid across multiple modes of transport in Dubai. Though not all Abu Dhabi to Dubai transport options support Nol, it’s beneficial for those continuing their journey within Dubai after arrival.
Day Trips and Excursions from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
Tour operators often offer day excursions that include round-trip transport from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. These can be private or group-based and frequently include sightseeing highlights. This option is especially popular among tourists with limited time or those staying in Abu Dhabi who want to see Dubai’s top attractions without planning their own route.
Eco-Friendly Travel Choices
Sustainable travel is becoming increasingly important. If you are considering how to go from Abu Dhabi to Dubai with minimal environmental impact, bus travel stands out as the most eco-conscious option. Electric taxi fleets are also expanding in the UAE, offering another greener alternative. Etihad Rail, once open to passengers, is expected to be one of the most environmentally friendly transport modes.
Helpful Apps for Travelers
When planning your trip, several apps can enhance the experience. The ‘Darbi’ app helps navigate public transport schedules in Abu Dhabi, while ‘S’hail’ covers Dubai’s transport system. Google Maps remains a reliable choice for real-time updates and estimated travel durations from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. These tools assist in choosing the most efficient routes and staying updated on traffic conditions.
Safety Considerations
Before choosing how to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, check the latest travel regulations, especially during health emergencies. Mask mandates, social distancing, or transport capacity limits may vary depending on current guidelines. It’s recommended to carry personal hygiene items and check transport provider websites for real-time updates.
Best Way to Travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
With so many options available, the best way to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai depends on your priorities—whether that’s budget, speed, flexibility, or sustainability. By understanding all available transport methods, travelers can confidently plan a route that suits their trip. From Abu Dhabi to Dubai, each journey offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant diversity of the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
A: Driving your own car or taking a taxi is currently the fastest method.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
A: The bus, particularly E100, offers the most affordable transport.
Q: How to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi airport?
A: Use the Zayed International Airport shuttle to Ibn Battuta Station.
