How to Get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai: All Routes Explained, With Real Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Overview: Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is probably the most classic route in the UAE. It’s super common for travelers to land in Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) and continue straight to Dubai hotels — sometimes because flights to AUH are cheaper, sometimes cuz hotel prices in Dubai jump up during big events.

The distance between both cities is about 140 km, and the ride usually takes 1 to 1.5 hrs, depending on where you go in Dubai (Marina always takes longer). The two cities are connected by a very simple straight road — E11 / Sheikh Zayed Road — which basically runs through the whole Emirates coastline.

The good news: You have several realistic ways to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 2025 — private transfers, taxis, buses (E100 & E101), shared shuttles, and rental cars. There’s no train yet, but the big Etihad Rail project is moving forward.

Below is an honest, traveler-friendly guide with all the details: how long everything takes, how much it costs, what’s worth it and what’s maybe not.

Distance: ~140 km

Time: 1–1.5 hours Cheapest: Bus (AED 25)

Fastest: Taxi / Private transfer

Most comfortable: Private transfer with hotel drop-off Most flexible: Rental car

Most travelers choose private transfer or taxi especially after a long flight. The bus is great if you’re on a tight budget.

Private Transfer (most comfortable, especially after a long flight)

A private transfer is honestly the chillest way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. You get:

A fixed price (no meter surprises) A driver meeting you inside the airport or in your hotel lobby AC that actually works, which matters more than you think Help with bags, stroller, pet carrier Child seats (not all taxis have them)

Services like Kiwitaxi are widely used on this route and cost pretty similar to regular taxis, but you get a nicer overall experience.

Duration: 1–1.5 hrs

Price: from $64

Great for: families, groups, people with pets, night arrivals, short trips

Transfers are especially helpful if you're traveling with kids, pets, or multiple bags. You get a door-to-door ride without any stress, plus you can ask for short stops for snacks or coffee.

Small tip: From November to March it gets busy. Better to book in advance.

Taxi (easy to find, but price varies)

Easy & always available, but price can jump a bit

Taxis in Abu Dhabi are clean, safe and 24/7. Just keep in mind one slightly confusing rule: A taxi from Abu Dhabi CAN take you to Dubai, but it cannot pick up passengers in Dubai, which means the fare is counted as a full long-distance trip.

The meter runs normally and the price depends on traffic.

Duration: 1–1.3 hrs Cost: AED 250–350 ($70–95) Pros: no booking, super fast Cons: meter can go higher than expected on busy evenings

If you're going to Dubai Marina, JBR or Palm Jumeirah, expect extra traffic around sunset or weekends.

Bus E100 / E101 - the cheapest way to travel

A lot of people arriving in Abu Dhabi think the buses will be slow, chaotic or with no AC — but actually the E100 and E101 buses are modern, big, cold-as-a-fridge air-conditioned coaches that locals, expats, students and even tourists use all the time.

If you're traveling on a budget, the bus is honestly the best-value way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 2025.

General things to know first:

The buses are run by RTA Dubai + Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Center. They’re clean, safe, and usually pretty punctual. Seats are comfortable enough for a 90–120 min ride.

You can bring luggage (just keep your bags next to you or between seats — there’s no dedicated luggage compartment).

You need a Nol card in Dubai and a Hafilat card in Abu Dhabi — but don’t worry, you can buy or top up right at the station.

E100 Bus (Abu Dhabi - Dubai / Bur Dubai side)

Route: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station → Al Ghubaiba Bus Station Best for: Deira, Bur Dubai, Old Dubai, Creek, Al Seef, Al Fahidi

This is the more “classic” route and great if you're staying in Old Dubai.

Travel Time: 1 hr 45 min – 2 hrs Price: AED 25 Frequency: approx. every 20–30 minutes in daytime

When to avoid: Friday evenings - the line at Abu Dhabi station gets long.

E101 Bus (Abu Dhabi Shahama - Dubai / Marina area)

Route: Abu Dhabi Shahama Bus Station → Ibn Battuta Bus Station Best for: Dubai Marina, JBR, JLT, Palm Jumeirah (West side), Bluewaters

Honestly, if you're staying anywhere near the Marina or JBR, E101 is your hero.

Travel Time: 1.5–1.75 hours (usually faster than E100) Price: AED 25 Frequency: every 20–40 minutes depending on time of day

Shared Shuttles (less common, but do exist)

Some hotels, tour providers, and travel agencies run shared shuttle vans.

Price: AED 35–60 Duration: ~2 hrs Pros: hotel drop-offs sometimes Cons: needs prebooking, not daily

This option is hit-or-miss, so always check schedules.

Renting a Car (good for freedom and road trips)

Great if you want to explore Dubai at your own speed

Driving in the UAE is easier than people think — big roads, clear signs, predictable traffic.

Cost breakdown:

Rental: AED 120–200/day Fuel: AED 25–35 (super cheap) Dubai tolls (Salik): AED 4 per gate

Pros: freedom, comfort, perfect for day trips Cons: paid parking in Downtown & Marina

If you're visiting theme parks, beaches, Desert Safari areas or Dubai Parks & Resorts - a car is very handy.

FAQs: From Abu Dhabi to Dubai

How long does it take to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

Usually 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic and where you go.

What is the cheapest way to travel?

The E100 or E101 bus (AED 25).

What is the fastest way?

Taxi or private transfer.

Is there a direct bus from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?

No. You must go via Abu Dhabi city.

Do Uber or Careem work for this route?

Uber/Careem operate, but inter-emirate trips can be inconsistent. Regular taxis or prebooked transfers are more reliable.

Is there a train between Abu Dhabi and Dubai?

Not yet.

Are taxis safe in the UAE?

Yes, very. They are government-regulated.

Can I take luggage on the bus?

Yes, but you keep it with you (no separate luggage hold).

Is it easy to drive between Abu Dhabi and Dubai?

Yes. Straight highway, well-marked.

Is there night transport?

Taxis: 24/7 Private transfers: 24/7 Buses: limited late at night

Which route is best for Dubai Marina?

E101 or a taxi/transfer.