How Long Is a Car Ride From Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

By Michael Ferguson

How Long Is a Car Ride From Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

If you plan on traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, it’s essential to consider the distance and estimated travel time. The two cities are located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike.

Distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles). This means that a car ride from one city to the other will take some time, depending on various factors such as traffic conditions, speed limits, and your mode of transportation.

Traveling by Car

If you choose to travel by car, which is a common choice for many people, you can expect the journey to take around 1 hour and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this estimate can vary based on the time of day and day of the week.

It’s important to note that UAE highways have a maximum speed limit of 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour). Adhering to these speed limits ensures your safety and helps maintain smooth traffic flow along the route.

Traffic Considerations

Rush Hour:

  • Mornings: If you plan on traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi during morning rush hour (around 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM), it’s advisable to leave early or expect delays due to heavy traffic.
  • Evenings: Similarly, during evening rush hour (around 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM), it’s best to plan your trip accordingly as traffic congestion can significantly increase travel time.

Weekends and Public Holidays:

It’s important to consider weekends and public holidays when planning your journey. These periods can experience higher traffic volumes due to people traveling between the two cities for leisure, events, or family visits.

Alternate Modes of Transportation

If you prefer not to drive or want to explore other transportation options, there are several alternatives available:

  • Bus: The UAE has a well-connected bus network, and you can find regular bus services operating between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Travel times may vary depending on the route and traffic conditions.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available in both cities, offering a convenient and comfortable way to travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

    However, taxi fares can be relatively higher compared to other modes of transportation.

  • Shared Rides: Carpooling services like UberPOOL or Careem Share allow you to share rides with other passengers heading in the same direction. This option can help reduce costs while also being environmentally friendly.

In Conclusion

The car ride from Dubai to Abu Dhabi takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, factors such as rush hour congestion, weekends, and public holidays can influence travel times.

If driving is not your preference, you have alternative options like buses, taxis, or shared rides that offer convenience and flexibility in reaching your destination.

Remember to plan your trip considering these factors for a smooth journey between these two vibrant cities of the UAE.