The emirate of Dubai, about 130km from Abu Dhabi, with the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah.

About Dubai

Dubai needs little introduction — it is the UAE\'s glittering showcase of ambition and excess, home to the world\'s tallest building (Burj Khalifa, 828m), the world\'s largest mall (Dubai Mall), and artificial islands shaped like palm trees visible from space. The city has transformed from a small trading port into one of the world\'s most visited destinations in just three decades.

Dubai\'s diverse districts offer vastly different experiences. Downtown Dubai centers around the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain (the world\'s largest choreographed fountain), and the sprawling Dubai Mall. The Marina and JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) offer beachfront living with a Manhattan-like skyline. Old Dubai — the Deira and Bur Dubai creek-side neighborhoods — preserves the city\'s trading heritage with atmospheric souks selling gold, spices, and textiles.

The city\'s food scene has exploded with Michelin-starred restaurants, celebrity chef outposts, and authentic street food from virtually every cuisine on earth, reflecting a population where over 200 nationalities coexist. Dubai also offers desert safaris, luxury shopping at every turn, and a year-round sunshine guarantee that keeps the tourism machine running even through the scorching summer months.

Nearby Landmarks

Burj Khalifa Dubai Mall Palm Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Dubai Creek

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost AED 250-350 ($68-95)
Time 90-120 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost AED 200-300 ($54-82)
Time 90-120 minutes

Arrivals level

Step-by-Step Directions

The intercity bus service runs regularly between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Taxis are expensive but convenient for this distance.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi AED 250-350 ($68-95) 90-120 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare AED 200-300 ($54-82) 90-120 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

After midnight, a taxi from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai costs approximately AED 300-400 (metered). Uber operates for intercity trips. There is no direct public bus from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai at night. Some travelers take a taxi to Abu Dhabi Bus Station and then the E101 intercity bus (runs until late evening). Pre-booked private transfers are the most comfortable option (AED 250-350).

Luggage Tips

For the 90-minute highway journey, ensure comfort. Taxis (Toyota Camry) have standard trunk space for 2 suitcases. For more luggage, book an SUV through Uber or a private transfer company. The highway has excellent rest stops with facilities midway at Ghantoot if needed.

Accessibility

Both Abu Dhabi Airport and Dubai's hotels are highly accessible. Intercity taxis are standard vehicles without wheelchair adaptation. Pre-book an accessible vehicle through specialized transfer services. Dubai's metro is fully accessible, and the city's modern infrastructure generally accommodates wheelchair users well. Hotels across all price ranges offer accessible rooms.