What Is the Best Way to Get From Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, there are several options available. Here’s a rundown of the most popular ones:

By Car

One of the most convenient ways to travel between the two cities is by car. The distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is approximately 150 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive from one city to the other.

If you have your own car or are renting one, you can take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) or Emirates Road (E611) from Dubai and head towards Abu Dhabi. Both roads are well-maintained and have several rest stops along the way.

Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem to book a private car for your journey. This option is ideal if you don’t want to drive yourself or don’t have access to a car.

By Bus

Another budget-friendly option is to take a bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, including:

  • Etihad Express: This is a direct bus service operated by Etihad Airways that runs every hour between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai International Airport.
  • RTA: The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai operates several buses that connect different parts of Dubai with Abu Dhabi.
  • Al Ghazal Transport: This company offers comfortable buses with free Wi-Fi that run from Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

The journey by bus takes around 2 hours and costs between AED 20-30 per person, depending on the route and operator.

By Taxi

Taxis are widely available in both cities, but they can be quite expensive compared to other options. If you’re taking a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand.

Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem to book a private taxi for your journey. This option is more convenient and usually costs less than regular taxis.

By Metro and Bus

If you’re on a tight budget, you can take the Dubai Metro and then transfer to a bus that goes to Abu Dhabi. The nearest metro station is Ibn Battuta, which is on the Red Line. From there, you can take a bus operated by Al Ghazal Transport to Abu Dhabi.

This option is time-consuming and requires some planning in advance, but it’s also the cheapest way to travel between the two cities.

In Conclusion

As you can see, there are several ways to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. The best option for you will depend on your budget, travel preferences, and schedule. Whether you choose to drive yourself or take public transportation, both cities are well-connected and offer plenty of attractions for visitors.