Dubai is considered the shopping capital of the Middle East and is one of the most popular cities and emirates in the United Arab Emirates. However, there is a lot to see and do in Abu Dhabi, the capital and main emirate of the UAE.
But how do you get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi? In this article we will go over all ways you can get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi!
Dubai to Abu Dhabi by taxi
The simplest way to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is by taxi. However, it can be an expensive option depending on the number of people travelling. It typically takes one hour twenty-two minutes to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi, although this can be a lot longer as the road connecting the two cities – the Sheikh Zayed Road, is a very busy highway.
It is very easy to get a taxi in Dubai Airport – just follow the signs when exiting the airport. You will not necessarily need to pre-book a taxi as there will be a large number of taxis waiting. All taxis use meters and the total fare from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi will be between 400 AED and 500 AED. The road distance from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is 150km.
Taxis from reputable taxi companies have an added advantage of being clean, metered and monitored, ensuring your safety as a traveler. They are also convenient as they work twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week (24/7).
Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by bus
There is no direct bus service from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi station, but you can take a taxi to the Dubai Bus Station from where you can travel onward to Abu Dhabi.
Alternatively, you can take the red metro line to get to Al Ghubaiba Bus station before proceeding to Abu Dhabi via the intercity buses. Unfortunately, this journey will take you about 2 hours and 40minutes.
The bus journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi will cost you approximately €9. The tickets have to be purchased separately at the metro station (Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 of the airport) and at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai. Dubai city only has a few bus routes and 2 metro lines. If you want to learn more about the Dubai Metro, you can read our article about the Dubai Metro.
This mode of transportation isn’t the most convenient. For example, the busses don’t operate at night (only from 6.00am to 9.40pm) meaning you’ll have to wait until the morning in case of night travel. Otherwise, you’ll have to organize a transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi at an additional cost.
The bus fare is only payable in Dirhams so make sure to visit the currency exchange bureau before the trip.
The good thing with Dubai busses is that they are extremely comfortable: all of them having soft comfortable seats, wireless internet connection and they are equipped with air-conditioning.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi by transfer
Transfers are by far the safest, quickest and easiest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Especially since the lines for taxis in the Airport can be quite long.
There are several transfer companies offering first-class chauffer drivers that are multi-lingual, professional and know the UAE roads like the back of their hands.
You also have a choice in terms of vehicles as the transfer companies offer limousines, both stretched and luxury, together with other luxury cars, vans and SUVs. These will enhance your experience touring the breathtakingly beautiful cities through their must-see and little known spots.
Prepay and confirm your transfer online to have your driver meet you in the airport. This way, you won’t worry yourself about getting local currency and then a taxi or public transport to your final destination. Most transfer companies even track your flight to meet you on time and provide wireless internet access and phone chargers in their vehicles.
The transfer cars and or mini buses are also of a better standard and are available on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis.
Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by rental car
While travelling from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi, you can arrange a rental car through one of the many car rental companies at the airport. The car rental kiosks can be found at Terminal 1, 2 and 3 arrival sections and if you prebook a car, your car will be waiting for you when you land.
Renting a car in the UAE is a great option as it gives you the freedom to chart your own program and allows you a lot of flexibility. Renting a car in the UAE is very cheap. You can get a car for less than $20 a day.
Most if not all the rental cars operating from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi have the necessary insurance and licenses required to operate in the UAE. A driving license, a credit card, and a passport are needed to rent a car, otherwise the insurance companies will deny you coverage.
You must be 21 years and above to be allowed to rent a car.
Like most roads in the UAE the stretch of road from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is radar controlled therefore, strict adherence to the clearly highlighted speed limits (on road signs) is advised.
In case you do not wish to drive, a professional chauffeur will be provided for you often at an additional cost.
Reserve your car online now!
