For many travelers, a visit to the United Arab Emirates includes both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The two cities are about 130-150 kilometers apart, depending on the starting and ending points. If you are planning vacation in Abu Dhabi starting from Dubai (or vice versa), you have several transfer options, which vary in cost, duration, and comfort. This guide will help you choose the best solution for your needs by comparing buses, taxis, rental cars, and private transfers.
Distances and Travel Times
Distance : about 130 km from downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa) to downtown Abu Dhabi (Corniche).
Travel time : under normal traffic conditions, from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Heavy traffic : Friday afternoon, Saturday morning, Sunday evening (commuters returning), or in case of accidents, it can take up to 2 and a half hours or more.
Common starting points in Dubai : airport (DXB), Al Ghubaiba bus station, Ibn Battuta Mall, or any hotel.
Arrival points in Abu Dhabi : main bus station (Main Bus Station), Abu Dhabi airport (AUH), or hotels in the city.
Option 1: Intercity Bus (Economical and Reliable)
The public bus is the most economical, convenient, and fairly quick solution. The service is operated by the Abu Dhabi transport company (ITC) and the Dubai transport company (RTA).
Lines and Stops
E100 : departs from Al Ghubaiba station (Dubai, near the historic Al Fahidi district) and arrives at the Main Bus Station in Abu Dhabi (downtown). It is the most frequent line.
E101 : departs from Ibn Battuta Mall (Dubai, southern area, near the metro) and arrives at the Main Bus Station in Abu Dhabi. Convenient if you are staying near Ibn Battuta.
E102 : departs from Dubai (stop near Dubai Marina? Check) and arrives at Mussafah (Abu Dhabi industrial area), not useful for tourists.
Timetable and Frequency
First departures around 5:00-6:00, last around 23:00-24:00.
Frequency: every 20-40 minutes during peak hours, every 30-60 minutes in the evening.
On Fridays (holy day) the frequency may be reduced.
Duration
About 1 hour and 45 minutes (with normal traffic). Longer than a taxi, but much cheaper.
Cost
Very cheap. You pay with a Nol card (Dubai) or Hafilat card (Abu Dhabi). Can you buy a single ticket with cash? No longer, only with prepaid cards. It is possible to buy the card and recharge it at the station.
Advantages
Extremely economical.
Air-conditioned, clean, and safe buses.
WiFi on board (not always working).
Luggage: luggage space under the bus.
Disadvantages
Longer time than a taxi.
Does not go directly to hotels (you then need to take a taxi from the Abu Dhabi station).
Can be crowded during peak hours.
Tips
Purchase the Nol card (Dubai) or Hafilat (Abu Dhabi) in advance. If you are leaving from Dubai, is the Nol card also valid for the intercity route? Yes, for the E100 and E101 they accept Nol. Otherwise, you can buy a card on the spot.
Sit on the right (seaside) to see the Gulf for most of the journey.
Option 2: Taxi (Comfortable and Fast)
The taxi is the best choice for those seeking speed and convenience, especially if there are two or more people (the cost is shared).
Types of Taxis
Dubai Metropolitan Taxi : can take you to Abu Dhabi, but cannot pick up passengers in Abu Dhabi (must return empty). The meter continues to run on the way back, so the fare may increase (usually a flat rate is agreed upon before departure).
Abu Dhabi Taxi : can it pick you up in Dubai? Usually not, unless it is booked. In practice, you will take a Dubai taxi to go to Abu Dhabi.
Intercity Taxi : some taxis authorized for long routes. Ask at the airport or station.
Cost
The cost varies, but generally hovers around an amount that depends on traffic and the route. It is cheaper if split between 2-3 people.
Duration
1 hour and 15 minutes – 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Advantages
Takes you directly to your hotel (door to door).
Faster than the bus (without intermediate stops).
Convenient with heavy luggage.
Disadvantages
More expensive (but acceptable if shared).
Risk of heavy traffic that increases the meter.
Tips
Always ask the driver to turn on the meter or agree on a fixed price before departing.
Do not accept unauthorized car offers (illegal limousines).
If you are alone, consider whether it is worth spending.
Option 3: Car Rental (Total Flexibility)
Renting a car gives you maximum freedom, especially if you want to explore other areas (e.g. Liwa Desert, Al Ain) and not depend on schedules.
Requirements
Valid driver's license (for non-EU tourists, an international permit is often required). EU citizens can use their license.
Minimum age usually 21 years (sometimes 25 for high-capacity vehicles).
Credit card for the security deposit.
Cost
The daily rental cost is very variable. Plus insurance (full coverage recommended). Fuel in Abu Dhabi is cheaper than in Europe. Parking: many hotels offer free parking; on public streets it is often free (paid in some central areas).
Duration
1 hour and 15 minutes, but it depends on traffic.
Advantages
Flexible hours.
Convenient for subsequent travel in Abu Dhabi and surroundings.
If you are 4, the cost per person can be lower than a taxi.
Disadvantages
You have to drive (be careful of traffic and highway exits).
Parking in the city center can be difficult.
Extra insurance.
Tips
Book online in advance for better rates.
Check the insurance conditions and the security deposit.
Choose a GPS or use Google Maps (offline).
Option 4: Private Transfers (Luxury and Comfort)
Private transport companies offer cars with drivers (limousine, SUV, minivan) at fixed prices, bookable online or via app.
Cost
More expensive than a regular taxi, but the price is fixed (no surprises). The service is of a higher level (clean cars, professional driver, water on board).
Advantages
Door to door.
Luxury cars (Mercedes, BMW, Lexus).
Trackable, safe, no bargaining.
Suitable for groups with luggage.
Disadvantages
High cost.
Tips
Use apps like Careem (available in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi) to book an "intercity limousine" or "economy".
Compare prices between different companies.
Comparison Table of Options
| Option | Cost | Duration | Comfort | Flexibility | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Very economical | 1h45 | Medium (then taxi) | Fixed schedules | Solo travelers, budget |
| Taxi | Medium | 1h15-1h45 | High (door to door) | High (immediate departure) | Couples, groups of 2-3 |
| Car rental | Variable | 1h15-1h45 | High (door to door) | Maximum | Groups of 3-4, explorers |
| Private transfer | High | 1h15 | Very high | By reservation | Luxury, groups with luggage |
How to Choose Based on Your Itinerary
If you are alone and have time : bus.
If you are a couple and want comfort : taxi.
If you are 3-4 people and want to save : car rental or shared taxi.
If you have a lot of luggage (e.g. large suitcases) : private transfer or large taxi.
If you arrive at Dubai airport and want to go directly to Abu Dhabi : bus (from Al Ghubaiba or Ibn Battuta) or taxi.
What to Know About the Road (E11)
The main road connecting Dubai to Abu Dhabi is the E11 highway (Sheikh Zayed Road). It is a straight road with 4-6 lanes in each direction, well-lit, with service areas every 20-30 km (gas, coffee, fast food, restrooms). The speed limit is 140 km/h (with speed camera enforcement). Be careful of fines (high and quick). The landscape is desert-like, with some plantations and industries. There are not many tourist signs, but follow the directions to "Abu Dhabi."
FAQ on Dubai-Abu Dhabi Transfer
How much does a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi cost?
The cost varies. Always ask for the price before departing or have the meter turned on.
Are there night buses?
The last departures are around 11:00 PM-12:00 AM. There are no services in the middle of the night.
Can I use the Dubai metro to go to Abu Dhabi?
No. The metro only goes to Dubai (Ibn Battuta and Jebel Ali). From there you need to take the E101 bus.
Do I have to pay a toll?
No, there are no tolls on the E11.
What is the most convenient bus stop for Dubai airport?
From DXB airport, take the metro to Ibn Battuta (red line) and then the E101 bus. Or taxi to Al Ghubaiba.
Can I book a taxi with Careem from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Yes, the Careem app works in both cities. You can book an intercity ride. The price is fixed.
What to do in case of heavy traffic?
Patience. Bring water and snacks. Listen to music. Don't look for shortcuts (they don't exist).
Is it safe to drive alone at night?
Yes, the road is well lit and patrolled. But be careful of fatigue.
Can I take my dog in a taxi or bus?
No, animals are not allowed on public transport (except for guide dogs). In taxis, it depends on the driver.
From Dubai-Abu Dhabi
The transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is simple and fast. The bus is the best choice for those on a budget and not in a hurry. The taxi is ideal for those seeking comfort and speed, especially in pairs or groups. Car rental offers flexibility, while private transfer is the height of luxury. Whatever option you choose, in just over an hour you will be in the Emirati capital, ready to start your vacation in Abu Dhabi.
For a complete overview of all attractions, itineraries, and practical tips for the Emirati capital, check our complete guide to vacations in Abu Dhabi with information on how to get there and get around.
Article review date: May 15, 2026