How to Get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
Are you looking for the best ways to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
The United Arab Emirates is a popular destination all year round, with its arid desert climate and warm weather.
Dubai is the most visited place in the UAE, so you should plan how you will get there and how to travel between the two cities.
From Abu Dhabi, the transport is not difficult, and you can take a day trip to discover the best sights. There are a few ways to get to Dubai, it just depends on your budget.
In our post, you will find the easiest and cheapest modes of transport and how much a bus ticket or taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai costs.
Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.
NO TIME TO READ NOW? PIN IT
How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?
The distance from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is about 140 km, which is 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Getting from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
There are no direct flights between the two cities, so you should travel by car, bus, or taxi.
Renting a car is the best way to explore Abu Dhabi and Dubai at your own pace.
There are many car rental companies at the airport where you can rent a car easily to explore the sights.
TIP
The best time to visit the UAE is from December to March.
From Abu Dhabi International Airport to Dubai
The easiest option is to take the direct bus from the airport to Dubai for around 9 USD.
Alternatively, you can take bus E101 from Abu Dhabi International Airport to IBN Battuta Metro station. The bus ticket costs 35 AED (10 USD) per person. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and runs every 20-30 minutes.
From there, you can get to the city center of Dubai or the airport. Dubai’s metro system is well-connected! Getting to Dubai International Airport by metro costs around 10,5 AED (3 USD).
Good to know
There are no direct metro and train connections from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.
Recommended post → Best Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
From Abu Dhabi to Dubai by direct bus
Are you looking for the cheapest way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
From Abu Dhabi Central bus station, the E100 bus runs every 20-30 minutes to Al Ghubaiba bus station.
The journey takes 2 hours (depending on traffic), and the bus ticket costs 25 AED (7 USD).
The buses are air-conditioned and very comfortable with USB-charging seats. We recommend you bring a light sweater, as it can get cold on the bus.
If you travel by bus, you should allow enough time to explore the Dubai sights. You cannot buy tickets on the bus, only at the ticket offices at the bus station.
Good to know
Bring enough cash, as we couldn’t use a credit card to buy bus tickets in Abu Dhabi!
Getting to Dubai by taxi
One of the easiest and most comfortable ways to reach Dubai is by taxi.
A taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai costs around 250-330 AED (70-90 USD). If you are not traveling alone, the cost is affordable!
The journey time is 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer starting from 90 USD.
TIP
You can check fares on the Careem or Uber apps, although you may be surprised to find that taxis are usually cheaper.
Getting to Dubai by private tour
Another great way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is to join a private or group sightseeing tour, which includes transfers. If you are only spending one day in Dubai and would like to make the most of your visit, we recommend joining a guided tour.
Looking for an unforgettable experience in Dubai? Then, be sure to visit the famous Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. The water park is full of attractions and experiences that are ideal for marine enthusiasts, adrenaline-seekers, couples, and families.
Where to Stay in the UAE
Best hotels in Abu Dhabi
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
- Mid-Range: Marriott Hotel Downtown, Abu Dhabi
- Budget: Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi
Best hotels in Dubai, UAE
- Luxury: Atlantis, The Palm
- Mid-Range: Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa
- Budget: Novotel Jumeirah Village Triangle
We hope our guide will help you plan your next trip to the UAE. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Train/Transfer – Bookaway
RECOMMENDED POSTS
How to Spend One Day in Abu Dhabi
