How to Go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai: Complete Travel Guide
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Fatima Saif
- . December 26, 2025
- . Update: December 26, 2025 6:25 pm
Dubai-Abu Dhabi is one of the most frequent trips in the UAE, for work, tourism, or leisure. When you ask yourself the question of how to travel to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, you will be delighted to know there are a number of convenient, affordable, and reliable ways of travel. The route is also well-connected and can be easily navigated through public buses and private taxis, rental cars, and guided tours. The two cities are some 140 kilometers apart, and the commuting time is normally about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much traffic there is and which means of transport you are using.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi distance and Travel time
It is always good to know the journey before making a decision on how to travel to Abu Dhabi in Dubai. The commute by car is approximately 90 minutes through one of the best-maintained highways in the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). Peak hours may increase the travel time, particularly in the mornings and evenings of weekdays. Nevertheless, the path is easy, well-marked, and friendly to pass by.
Public Transport: Dubai Abu Dhabi buses
Public buses are one of the cheapest means of travelling to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport serves the Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai and the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station.
Buses operate regularly during the day and are air-conditioned at a low price. The travel lasts about two hours, which is favorable to economic passengers and those who commute on a daily basis. The station allows the use of a NOL card or money to buy tickets.
Taxi or Ride-Hailing Travel
Taxis would be a good choice when someone likes door-to-door service. In case comfort and speed are the main factors, a taxi ride is a convenient way to learn how to travel to Abu Dhabi from Dubai without schedule concerns.
Careem and Uber are also common ride-hailing services. Although this alternative is more costly than buses, it comes with privacy, flexibility, and accessibility to your destination in Abu Dhabi.
Driving Yourself: Car Hire and Personal Cars
Most occupants prefer driving when travelling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. It is easy to hire a car, and there are various rental agencies in Dubai, both at airports and malls.
Driving provides you with all the control over your time and enables you to take breaks on the way. The road is uncomplicated, petrol stations are commonplace, and road signs are visible. Have a driving license and always abide by driving speed limits because the traffic laws are enforced through cameras.
Guided Tours and Exclusive Transfers
Guided tours and one-on-one transfers are also another trend among tourists seeking an easy time learning how to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. Day trips to major attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island are conducted by many tour operators.
This would be the best choice when it comes to first-time visitors who do not want to deal with routes or transportation logistics and enjoy structured traveling.
