You can get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus, private transfer, taxi, and rental car!
The cheapest option is to take the public bus, which costs USD 7. Depending on your final destination, the journey takes about 2 hours.
The most popular option is the bus, offering a direct, affordable, and convenient journey!
The fastest way is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Check out our guide for the best options for traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.
Transportation Options
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Public Bus | ~2 hrs | $7 |
| Private Transfer | ~1.5 hrs | $87 to 181 |
| Taxi | 1.5 hrs | $70 to 170 |
| Rental Car | 1.5 hrs | – |
1. Public Bus
Journey Duration: ~2 hours
These fully air-conditioned buses are equipped with a payment system and operate on two different routes: E100 and E101.
The E100 route starts at Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, and ends at Bur Dubai, Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. It takes approximately 2 hours to travel and runs daily at varying intervals.
The E101 route also starts at Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, and ends at Ibn Battuta Metro Station in Dubai. It travels for around 1.5 hours and runs at varying intervals daily.
Each ticket for both routes costs AED 25 or about USD 7 and can be purchased at the counter or through an NOL card, although note that there are no machines to recharge your NOL card at the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Private transfers offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel, as you’ll be picked up at your desired location and transported directly to your destination in Dubai.
These transfers are available 24/7 and can be booked in advance, making them a hassle-free option for those with specific travel requirements.
Private transfers can also be customized to your preferences, whether you’re looking for a luxury ride or a more budget-friendly option.
The cost of a private transfer will depend on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle chosen, but prices generally start from around USD 87.
Multiple companies, such as Desert Rose Tourism and Ultimate Experience, provide different deals depending on your group size!
While private transfers may be more expensive than public transport options, they offer a stress-free and efficient travel experience that can be well worth the investment.
- Up to 4 passengers: USD 87
- Up to 9 passengers: USD 96
- Up to 3 passengers: USD 107
- Up to 3 passengers: USD 119
- Up to 6 passengers: USD 163
- Up to 6 passengers: USD 181
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Rental cars offer great flexibility, as you can choose your route and schedule and stop at exciting places along the way.
Car rentals are readily available in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with a range of international and local companies offering a variety of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets.
Prices for car rentals in the UAE vary depending on the type of car, duration of the rental, and the company, but you can generally expect to pay around AED 100-200 per day for a basic vehicle.
The roads between Abu Dhabi and Dubai are well-maintained, with clear signage and ample rest areas.
Before renting a car, ensure a valid driver’s license and check the terms and conditions of the rental agreement. We also recommend booking a rental in advance to secure the best deal!
4. Uber or Taxi
Journey Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Taxis and ride-hailing services are convenient and readily available in both cities and can be quickly booked through a smartphone app or hailed from the street.
The journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by taxi or Uber generally takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. Taxis in the UAE are metered, with fares starting at AED 5 and increasing by around AED 2 per kilometer traveled.
You can expect the Abu Dhabi to Dubai fare to cost about USD 70-USD 90.
Uber also operates in the UAE, with fares more expensive than taxis. Uber offers various ride options so the price can go up to USD 170.
Depending on the time of day and traffic conditions, taking a taxi or Uber can be more expensive than other transport options. Still, it’s a comfortable and reliable option, especially for those with luggage or traveling in a group!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to travel by public bus?
The journey time by public bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai varies depending on the route and traffic conditions. The E100 bus route takes approximately 2 hours, while the E101 bus takes around 1.5 hours.
Are taxis and ride-hailing services readily available in Abu Dhabi and Dubai?
Yes, taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber are widely available in both cities and can be quickly booked through a smartphone app or hailed from the street.
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