Abu Dhabi to Dubai Trip Guide – Routes, Tips & Travel Info
Trip in the Space Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Abu Dhabi and Dubai are sister emirates in the United Arab Emirates. They are like fraternal twins: eternally connected yet totally distinct in personality. The capital, Abu Dhabi, has cultural sights and tranquil beaches. Dubai, on the other hand, is exciting because of its new futuristic shapes and the huge amount of entertainment it has. The good news is? I put both of these great cities on my list of favorite places to visit, but I still don’t sure what to do. It’s easy to get to and from these two cities around the world, and there’s something for everyone.
This guide will tell you all you need to know about getting from A to B and back again, whether you’re visiting for a day or live nearby and need to get to the circuit. It includes driving guidelines, public transportation alternatives, and some helpful recommendations.
Why do people go back and forth between Abu Dhabi and Dubai?
This is why so many people choose this path:
- Commerce and Labor: The two cities are quite near to each other economically, and a lot of people who live in one city work in the other.
- Leisure and Tourism: Both Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque and Dubai’s Burj Khalifa would be great places to visit.
- Family and Friends: They mostly travel for social events or to see family because the cities are close by.
The distance between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in one close-up
Before you plan your trip, here’s what you need to know.
- Distance: The cities are around 140 kilometers (87 miles) apart.
- Travel Time:
- By car or taxi: About 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.
- By bus or public transportation: About 2 hours.
The contemporary E11 expressway, also known as Sheikh Zayed Road, is the main route. It goes straight for 130 kilometers to Dubai.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai by Car
Driving is the best way to get about, no doubt about it. Want to be free? The chance to stop and look around along the way? Then you should focus on driving.
The Path to Follow
Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) is the easiest way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. It’s straight, well-kept, has clear signs, and you can’t get lost.
Tip of the Day
There are a lot of toll gates, or “Salik” gates, in Dubai. You need to have a Salik tag on your car that has already been loaded. Each crossing costs AED 4. No tag? To get one, check with your car rental provider or the local government.
Driving has its benefits
- Adaptability — Stop for coffee, gas, or pictures along the way.
- Ease – Perfect for families or groups of friends, you have all the space you need.
- Cost-sharing – Sharing costs like gas, tolls, and other things with friends can make this a very cheap option.
Renting a car for visitors
Tourists can easily rent a car for the trip. In the meanwhile, there are trustworthy rental firms in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, so picking up and dropping off is easy. Don’t forget to bring your foreign driver’s license with you! And don’t forget to check for insurance when you rent.
Advice from a pro
Be careful about speed limits; they are very strictly enforced in the UAE. Speed limits on big roads like Sheikh Zayed Road range from 100 to 140 km/h.
Ways to Get Around on Public Transport
Want to save money? Many people who use public buses like them because they are fast, cheap, and dependable.
Get on a bus
People who don’t drive like to take intercity buses. The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai provide an intercity bus service that is quite popular with people who don’t drive.
- Key Routes: There are regular buses that go from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai.
- Times: Buses leave every day of the week, with departures every 15 to 30 minutes.
- Cost: A one-way ticket is AED 25–30, which is cheap.
- Length: About two hours, depending on traffic.
Affordable Comfort
Modern and cozy: The buses between cities:
- Air-conditioned interiors
- Lots of legroom and luggage space
- Always clean and well-kept spaces
Tip from an insider
Living in Dubai also means that a NOL Card is a very important component of your life. It’s a prepaid card that lets you ride buses, the metro, and trams all throughout town.
Taxis and Services That Pick You Up
Want the convenience of door-to-door service? You could wave down a taxi. Or you could utilize apps like Careem and Uber?
By taxi
Cost: A one-way cab fare usually costs AED 250–300.
Availability: Taxis are easy to find all across Abu Dhabi, and you can also book one through local taxi applications.
Apps for getting rides (Careem and Uber)
People who want to pay with cash (but not tourists) like this. In-app booking with an estimated fare for increased transparency is one of the options.
Why Pick This Choice?
- Great for people traveling alone or in small groups.
- Gives you the freedom to feel well and have a more pleasant trip without tension.
Transfers for Individuals
If comfort and ease are important to you, private transfer services are the way to go.
What are private transfers?
This means hiring a professional driver to pick you up in a nice car and take you to your destination. Good for visitors or important people.
Prices:
It starts at AED 300, depending on the quality of service.
Why Go with a Private Transfer?
- Great for big families or business vacations.
- Get personalized service without having to wait in line.
Value Added
Extras: Some firms offer Wi-Fi in their cars, bottled water, and other modest luxuries.
How to Plan a Trip
Are you planning to go back and forth between Abu Dhabi and Dubai soon? These ideas will make your trip go more smoothly.
Choose the Best Time to Travel
Don’t come during rush hour (7–9 AM or 5–8 PM); the roads are virtually always jammed then.
Know the Weather
During the winter months (December to February), fog can make it hard to see, especially on highways like Sheikh Zayed Road.
Stay in touch
If you’re driving yourself, make sure your GPS is working. Maps that you can use without an internet connection might also be useful.
Options that are easy on the wallet
If you’re on a budget, plan and reserve buses or ride shares ahead of time.
Have a great trip!
Driving from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is more than simply a way to go to work. This 140-kilometer trip is easy to go to no matter if you want the freedom of the automobile, the low cost of the bus, or the ease of a private shuttle.
Every trip between the calm beauty of Abu Dhabi and the tremendous activity of Dubai will give you a unique look into the core of the UAE. Plan your trip so that you have enough time, choose your means of transportation carefully, and enjoy the amazing ride along one of the Middle East’s most beautiful roadways.
