Dubai to Abu Dhabi Commute Guide: Travel Options, Timings & Costs

29 May, 2025

The trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a popular travel path that connects two of the UAE’s top-tier cities; be it you're a tourist taking in the sights, a professional tackling the daily commute, or a passenger transferring from Dubai International Airport to the capital, picking the right transport to reach Abu Dhabi efficiently is pivotal.

From time-saving public buses to premium private rentals, there’s a travel plan to match every pace and preference. MOOV by Al-Futtaim provides practical, polished mobility options for those looking to travel with ease, and this blog post will point you toward the most convenient option for your Dubai day trip to Abu Dhabi, helping you save time and stay on track.

How Far Is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?

Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a distance of approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles), and the drive usually takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes and 2 hours, depending on traffic, your departure time, and the chosen motorway.

The most direct route and commonly used motorway is Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), known for its smooth drive, straight direction, and easy access to downtown districts. Alternatively, travelers may opt for Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road(E311), which is ideal if you’re departing from mid-city zones such as Mirdif, Motor City, or Al Barsha South; both routes are well-maintained and marked, making the trip manageable for daily drives and city-to-city commutes alike.

During off-peak hours, the drive tends to be direct and trouble-free; however, if you’re travelling during typical rush times, usually between 6:30 and 9:30 AM and 4:30 and 7:30 PM, you may encounter delays due to dense traffic, particularly at turn-offs, tunnels, and major transport terminals.

Transportation Options Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi

When you travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, there are plenty of practical ways to make the trip. Travelers can choose from public transport, private taxis, premium shuttles, or personal car plans like flexible car subscriptions.

Each transport type serves a different priority, some focus on price, others on privacy, punctuality, or passenger comfort. Picking the right option depends on what matters most for your trip, whether it’s saving time, spending less, or travelling in style.

1. Bus Services from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

For many passengers, public buses offer the most practical and affordable option to commute between the two cities. Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority(RTA), these bus services are fully air-conditioned, come with free Wi-Fi, and provide priority seating for women and children, along with proper space for luggage, making them a fuss-free choice.

Popular Routes and Details:

E100: Departs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai and heads straight to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours
- Fare: AED 25
- Frequency: Every 20 to 30 minutes
- Perfect For: Passengers based near Deira or Old Dubai
E101: From Ibn Battuta Bus Station, this public route proceeds directly to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
- Travel Time: Around 85 to 100 minutes(May vary during peak traffic hours)
- Fare: AED 25
- Frequency: Daily, from early morning until late evening
- Perfect For: Residents in Jebel Ali, Marina, or JLT.
E102: Operates from Ibn Battuta to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station in Abu Dhabi.
- Travel Time: Around 100 minutes
- Fare: AED 25
From Dubai International Airport (DXB):

From DXB, you can first catch bus C01 to Gold Souq, then proceed with public bus X13 to Al Ghubaiba, and finally connect to the comfortable E100 coach to Abu Dhabi; this full route is cost-effective, but it involves a few changes and connections along the way.

Taxi Services: Fast but Costly

Taxis are a dependable and widely used way to travel between both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and though typically more expensive than public transport, they provide direct drop-offs, personal travel space, and perfect timing adaptability.

Taxi Dubai Abu Dhabi Price: Between AED 220 and AED 300 for a standard one-way trip
Travel Duration: Roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes
Taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi can be booked through the Dubai Taxi Corporation app, dialling 80088088, or hailed directly from the street

From DXB Airport, the meter starts at AED 25, with an additional AED 1.96 per kilometer, and for those seeking a more deluxe ride, top-tier limousine transport is available, with average prices for luxury transfers reaching up to AED 460.

So, if you value door-to-door travel, timely service, and a stress-free experience, a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a trustworthy choice.

3. Dubai Airport Shuttle Services

Private shuttle services are a smart solution for travelers seeking a seamless and personalized ride from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi, and platforms like GetTransfer.com let you schedule your transport in advance and pick from a range of vehicle types, whether you're looking for a simple sedan or a spacious passenger bus.

Sample Prices from Get Transfer:

Standard Sedan (3passengers): AED253
Premium Class: AED 367
SUV (5 passengers): AED 301
People Carrier Van (8 passengers): AED396
Small Shuttle (16 passengers): AED771
Passenger Bus (50 passengers): AED 1,531

This service is particularly suitable for small families, professional teams, or anyone traveling with plenty of suitcases and seeking a stress-free transfer.

4. Ride-Hailing Services: Uber and Careem

Ride-hailing services deliver streamlined travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With apps like Uber and Careem, users can reserve rides in seconds and select from a variety of ride styles, spanning standard sedans to spacious SUVs; these platforms are ideal for those who value real-time scheduling, smooth service, and stress-free intercity rides.

Uber Estimated Prices:

Uber Comfort: AED 507
Uber XL: AED 539 to 554
Uber Black: AED 733

Careem Estimated Prices:

Economy: AED 352
Business: AED 370
Max (for more passengers): AED404
Careem Kids: AED 348
5-hour Personal Captain: AED 580
10-hour Personal Captain: AED 805

These platforms also work well if you're splitting a ride or arranging a car lift with a colleague or friend going the same way.

5. Subscribe to a Car: Freedom and Flexibility

If you’re planning flexible travel with multiple city stops or an extended stay in Abu Dhabi, a car subscription can be a smart and convenient choice. Services like MOOV by Al-Futtaim offer customized car access, allowing you to subscribe daily, weekly, or monthly, which is fantastic for those navigating the travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To understand the full range of perks, take a look at our detailed guide on why a car subscription is a good deal.

Common Features and Costs:

Flexible Rates: Daily prices start from AED 130, based on car category
City Convenience: Pick up in Dubai, complete your trip in Abu Dhabi
Subscription Benefits: Includes full insurance, scheduled servicing, and no fixed contracts

This solution suits tourists, corporate clients, and residents seeking a stress-free way to explore both cities without the commitment of owning a car.

Comparing Commute Options: Which One Is Right for You?

Tips for a Smooth Trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Time your trip to avoid peak periods and trim travel time.
Plan your path with apps like Google Maps or Waze for traffic predictions and timely updates.
Pre-book private transport, particularly on popular days like weekends or public holidays.
Top up your transit pass (Nol card) if taking public buses to prevent payment problems.
Track potential tolls—each Salik passage deducts AED 4 from your balance.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Way to Travel

Craving comfort, control, and personal space? Car subscriptions or private rentals, particularly with trusted providers like MOOV by Al-Futtaim, bring the perfect balance of convenience and competence. They’re best suited for city explorers who want to bounce between Dubai and Abu Dhabi without the burden of ownership. Prefer something more direct? Booking a cab from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a straightforward solution too.

Need more help planning your commute? Feel free to contact us for tailored recommendations, or head to our About Us page to learn more about how we support seamless city-to-city travel across the UAE. And if you're travelling with family or need extra room, our guide to the best 7-seater SUV cars in the UAE can help you pick a convenient and spacious option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do people commute from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Many UAE residents commute between the two cities for work, education, and family visits, especially those living in Dubai but working in Abu Dhabi or vice versa.

2. How to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi daily?

For daily commutes, using a private car, car subscription, or RTA buses like the E101 are popular options, depending on your budget and schedule.

3. Is it easy to drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

Yes. The drive is straightforward via E11 or E311, with well-maintained roads and frequent signposting. However, it is advisable to plan ahead for peak traffic times.

4. How much is a private car from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

Prices differ depending on the preferred mode of transport. Public taxis typically begin around AED 220, while digital platforms like Uber and Careem may price rides between AED 350 and AED 730. Dedicated airport shuttles vary as well, based on the passenger vehicle’s class and capacity.

5. What is the cheapest mode of transport in Dubai?

RTA public buses are the most cost-effective, with one-way tickets from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costing AED 25.