The 140-kilometer journey from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital, is a straightforward highway drive that takes approximately 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic. Intercity buses operated by the Emirates Transport run regularly, while taxis and ride-hailing services offer a more comfortable door-to-door option. There is no direct rail connection yet, though the Etihad Rail project is under development.

About Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest emirate of the United Arab Emirates, a city that balances modern ambition with cultural authenticity. The city is spread across a main island and several surrounding islands, connected by bridges. Its most celebrated landmark is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet.

Saadiyat Island is Abu Dhabi's cultural district, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi — the first universal museum in the Arab world — with its stunning floating dome designed by Jean Nouvel. Yas Island is the entertainment hub, featuring Ferrari World (home to the world's fastest roller coaster), Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and the Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix annually.

The Corniche, a beautifully landscaped 8-kilometer waterfront promenade, is the city's social spine, with public beaches, cycling paths, parks, and cafes. Abu Dhabi has a more relaxed, spacious feel compared to Dubai, with wider roads, less frantic construction, and a stronger emphasis on culture and governance. It is also the seat of the UAE federal government and home to major oil wealth that funds the country's sovereign investments worldwide.

Nearby Landmarks

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Louvre Abu Dhabi Ferrari World Yas Marina Circuit Abu Dhabi Corniche

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost AED 250-350 (~$68-95)
Time 80-100 minutes

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

Step-by-Step Directions

1. From DXB, take a taxi or Metro to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai (or Ibn Battuta Bus Station if coming from that direction)
2. At the bus station, purchase a ticket for the E100 or E101 intercity bus to Abu Dhabi (approximately AED 25)
3. The E100 runs to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station; the E101 runs to Abu Dhabi via Mussafah
4. Board the bus — the journey takes approximately 2–2.5 hours including stops
5. Arrive at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station on Hazaa Bin Zayed Street
6. From the bus station, take a local taxi or bus to your final destination in Abu Dhabi
7. Alternative: Direct taxi from DXB to Abu Dhabi takes 1.5–2 hours (AED 250–350)

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi AED 250-350 (~$68-95) 80-100 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Late-night transport to Abu Dhabi is limited to taxis and ride-hailing services. Intercity buses from Dubai to Abu Dhabi run until approximately 11:30 PM from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (not from the airport directly). A taxi from DXB to Abu Dhabi at night costs AED 300–400 for the full journey, and the drive is actually faster at night — around 1 hour 15 minutes with no traffic. Uber operates in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but note that a Dubai-registered Uber driver may need to drop you at the Abu Dhabi border area. Careem handles intercity trips more seamlessly. Pre-arranged hotel transfers or private car services are the most convenient option for late arrivals.

Luggage Tips

A taxi, Uber, or private transfer is the most practical option with luggage — direct door-to-door service with ample trunk space. If taking the intercity bus, luggage goes in the hold with a typical allowance of two large bags per passenger. The buses are comfortable coaches with AC. Avoid buses if you have oversized items, as space can be limited on busy runs.

Accessibility

Intercity buses between Dubai and Abu Dhabi have limited wheelchair accessibility — not all coaches have wheelchair lifts, so call ahead to confirm. Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most reliable accessible option for this route. In Abu Dhabi, RTA accessible taxis can be booked through the Darb app. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and most major attractions are fully wheelchair accessible. Abu Dhabi Corniche has level pathways suitable for wheelchair users.