Dubai to Abu Dhabi: How to Travel in 2025

We find that the journey between Dubai and the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, is one of the most frequently traveled routes in the country, a path well-worn by executives, discerning travelers, and families on holiday. Even though it’s not a huge distance of 140 kilometers (roughly 90 miles), the way one travels it can be very different. The vehicle you choose has a say in the travel time as well as the atmosphere.

You could choose public transport, which is a perfectly fine and affordable option, or you could go all out and do it differently. Take a ride in one of our 2024 model luxury cars down Sheikh Zayed Road.At the same time, the means of transport is as important as the arrival. This guide outlines all the transportation options available to you and helps you make an informed choice that best fits your priorities, whether that’s the cost effective option for the wallet-conscious traveler or the one that will save you time and let you travel in unrivaled comfort.

Before we get into the details, check out these essential travel facts to help plan your trip to visit Abu Dhabi:

• Around 140 km (90 miles) is the distance.
• Usually takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, though it may depend on transport and traffic.
• Taxi Fare is about 300–350 AED.
• Bus Fare: 25 AED.
• Cheapest Option: Public Bus.
• A private car or helicopter is the fastest.

During peak traffic hours, 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM on weekdays, we may face longer travel durations.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi: All Travel Options Compared

Source

To give you a good idea, we compared the best ways to travel between the two Emirates. Each option is uniquely balanced by cost, speed, and comfort.

As you can see, it mostly comes down to what you need for the day. If you are a solo traveler on a budget, then a bus is the most feasible option. Nonetheless, nothing beats the flexibility and comfort of a personal vehicle when looking to cruise around the Emirates in your own time.

Dubai Abu Dhabi Taxi

Source

You can easily and conveniently travel by taxi in Dubai. Thus, you can easily get to your destination in Abu Dhabi. You can get a taxi on the street, from hotels, or by using the taxi app. This option takes away the trouble of checking public transport schedules and makes you travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

A taxi is more expensive than a bus. However, taxis are much more comfortable and faster. So, many people prefer taxi cabs. The 24-hour door-to-door service provides an excellent link between the two cities.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Taxi Fare

The taxi fare varies between service providers, the type of vehicle (for example, sedan, SUV, and more), and the time of day due to surge pricing. Below is an estimated cost comparison for a one-way trip.

While these prices are only an estimate, you should always confirm the estimated fare in the app or with the driver before getting in.

Travel Time and Distance by Taxi

Taxis travel a distance which is approximately the same as that of a private car. Under good traffic conditions, it should take about 1.5 hours. However, during peak hours, and especially during the late afternoon rush leaving Dubai, this can exceed 2 hours. Taxis frequently ply the main route (Sheikh Zayed Road) (E11), which connects the two cities most directly.

Where to Book a Taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Booking a taxi is exceptionally easy. You can:

• Use ride-hailing apps such as Uber UAE and Careem. In just a matter of minutes, you can book a ride, see the estimated fare instantly, and track your driver's arrival.
• Flag down an RTA taxi anywhere in the city. RTA has an official fleet of Dubai Taxis that you can avail of at any time.
• You can also book a taxi from the designated stalls at malls and hotels.
• The international airports of Dubai have taxis available at all times.

When travelling, most people prefer using an app like Careem or Uber as it is reliable and convenient.

Dubai Abu Dhabi Bus Services

Source

The bus service run by Dubais Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi is clean, safe, and remarkably efficient. The buses are modern, fully air-conditioned, and have comfortable seats along with designated sections for women and families.

Route details are displayed digitally. For residents and tourists alike, it offers the cheapest way to travel between the two emirates while retaining a fair amount of comfort. To pay for your bus fare, you will need to purchase a Nol Card, a rechargeable smart card used for all public transport in Dubai.

Dubai Abu Dhabi Bus Routes and Timings

There are two main bus routes between the cities, starting from different stations in Dubai to facilitate travelers across the city. Both routes terminate at the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.

Depending on the traffic, the journey time will be approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The fare for both routes is a flat 25 AED.

Is a Bus a Good Option for Tourists?

For budget tourists, especially those traveling solo or as a couple, the bus is a great option. It’s cheap and ensures a comfortable and safe ride. Nonetheless, the bus is not ideal for a family with small children, a traveler with many bags, or someone who is limited in time. The set departure points and slower travel times of a bus can be inconvenient when compared to the door-to-door service of a taxi or the total freedom with a rental car.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi By Rental Car (Self-Drive)

Source

If you’re someone who values your independence and comfort and prefers making your own decisions, then without a doubt, renting a car is the best option for you when traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. In our opinion, it makes the ride more experiential rather than merely a transfer. At Trinity Rental, we provide a first-class experience with rent without deposit, which is a key advantage for our clientele.

We have more than 80 vehicles in our fleet, which have very low mileage. The fleet includes 2024 models as well. This will let you enjoy the stunning vistas along Sheikh Zayed Road at your own pace and make an impromptu stop at one of the attractions on the way.

Travel Time, Route and Distance by Car

A private car is the fastest mode of road transport after a helicopter. The route is straightforward and well-signposted.

Every client will receive a full tank of fuel as a gift – you will be able to get going right away.

Can You Drive a Rental Car Between Emirates?

Yes, absolutely. It is permitted to drive any rented vehicle in the UAE to and from any emirate, including from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. There are no internal borders or checkpoints. An increased daily 300 km usage and full insurance are included in the rental price. Charges for toll roads (Salik) will also be charged at the end of the rental. You can travel across the country with ease thanks to this seamless process.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Private Transfers / Shuttle

Source

A private transfer or shuttle service is between a regular taxi and a self-drive rental. It offers a perfect combination of convenience and comfort. By choosing this option, you can pre-book your vehicle with a professional driver for a specific time, so there will be no waiting. It’s great for airport transfers, business travelers, and families needing more room or extra luggage assistance. Vehicles range from economy sedans to large luxury vans and minibuses, which can be matched to your group size and comfort level exactly.

Transfer Cost & Comfort Comparison

The vehicle class and passenger capacity determine the price of a private transfer service. We have outlined the typical pricing structure below.

These services offer better service standards and vehicle quality compared to a regular taxi.

Where to Book a Private Transfer

You can book private transfers through various channels:

• Websites like GetTransfer, Blacklane, and other equivalent local services allow you to compare prices and book in advance.
• Most luxury hotels in Dubai can arrange a private car service for you.
• Trinity Rental offers the option to hire a private driver with any of our vehicles. Our manager can answer your questions at any time and arrange this service for you.

It is advisable to book in advance during peak season.

Best for Families and Business Travel?

Certainly, private transfers are ideal for both of them. Families can pre-book a bigger car like an SUV or van with child seats to ensure a safe trip for everyone. The peace and solitude of the cabin allow business travelers to make phone calls or catch up on their work while a professional driver does the navigating. It’s a way to travel which is stress-free, effective, and sophisticated.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Train

Source

It would be exciting to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai through a high-speed rail link in the UAE. The project will create a national railway network for passengers and freight. Once it opens, the passenger service will link 11 cities and regions, significantly cutting travel times and offering an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to road travel. For the Dubai-Abu Dhabi corridor, it will be a game-changer with an under-one-hour journey.

Is There a Train from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

As of 2025, there is no passenger train currently operating between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Despite the freight service line being finished, the passenger service of Etihad Rail is still under development. While the track is substantially in place, the stations, ticketing systems, and passenger trains are not yet ready for use.

When Will the Train Launch?

Officials have yet to announce a launch date for the passenger service. The authorities have made significant progress despite the complexity of the project, but they want to ensure everything works safely and efficiently before launch. They provide updates from time to to time and the service could launch in the upcoming years; however, a definitive timeline for 2025 is not available.

Future Benefits of Rail Travel

Once launched, the train will offer numerous advantages:

• The trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi will take only 50 minutes.
• Rail travel is much more environmentally friendly than road or air travel.
• Modern trains will offer spacious seating and amenities for a smooth and relaxing journey away from road traffic.
• Trains are reliable as they dont get stuck in traffic jams.

Once it arrives, it will definitely become the transportation of choice for many people.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Flight

Source

Though Dubai and Abu Dhabi have big international airports, it is not a practical or common means of travel between the two cities for the public. Because the cities are so close, spending time at the airport takes far longer than actually flying, making road travel quicker. No commercial airlines operate scheduled straight routes for this.

Flight Time and Distance

A non-stop flight would traverse the aerial distance of about 120 km in under 30 minutes. However, that does not consider the actual process of air travel.

This table shows that flying is not a very effective means of transport for this route.

Why Flying is Not Practical

The chief reason why flying is not practical is the “ground time.” One needs to reach the airport at least 1.52 hours before a flight for check-in and security. When you reach Abu Dhabi, you will need to disembark from the plane and gather your bags before making your way to your final destination. In total, the whole process easily takes three to four hours, which is double the driving time. If you want something more exclusive and really fast, you can take a private helicopter charter; however, its a lot more expensive.

Conclusion

Choosing which transport to use to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a case of matching it with your priorities. If you're concerned with the economy, the public bus system is a great, comfortable option. Taxis are there for you when you need a direct ride. We still maintain that nothing beats the experience of freedom, luxury, and style like a self-drive rental car.

You can design your itinerary, travel when you want, and feel that the journey is as much part of the adventure as the destination. Trinity Rental takes this experience to the next level with our no-deposit policy and a fleet of the latest models. We support many payment methods, including cash, Visa and Mastercard cards, and cryptocurrency. For your convenience, we can deliver the vehicle to any location.