✈ Getting from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi

The Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi distance is approximately 150 kilometers, but the travel time varies significantly depending on how you travel.

Dubai Airport taxis are readily available and will take you to Abu Dhabi in 1 hour and 30 minutes.

If you want to skip the hassle of the taxi queue at DXB, you can pre-book a Dubai Airport transfer instead for your comfort and convenience.

There is no direct bus from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi. Instead, you’ll need to take the red metro line to Dubai and then take a bus to Abu Dhabi, meaning your journey time could be over 2 hours and 40 minutes.

For the full breakdown, read on!

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Dubai at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€84	90min	24/7
Metro + Bus (Red line + E101)	€15	170min	04:30–23:59
Welcome Airport Transfer	€110	90min	24/7

How to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by taxi

Taking a taxi from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is a popular choice as you’ll receive an efficient, comfortable, door-to-door service. Not to mention, taxis and transfers are the only direct option for this route.

The journey time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Dubai Airport taxis are available from all three terminal buildings 24/7.

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi taxi fares

You can expect your taxi from DXB Airport to Abu Dhabi to cost around €84 (AED 350), however, there is no set fare, so the final price may vary.

Your fare will be calculated using a taximeter, including any tolls, a per-kilometer price and surcharges (for example, luggage charges). For longer journeys such as this, we recommend booking your taxi in advance to avoid stressing over the fare.

Photos (1)

Cost

€84

Trip Duration

1 H 30 Min

*Rates may vary unless you book your taxi in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis at Dubai Airport are available 24h all year long, although expect longer waiting times during rush hours.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Dubai Airport (DXB) has taxi ranks at the main exit gates of each terminal. Signs from the luggage claim will effortlessly guide you to your corresponding exit. Once out of the building, you’ll see official cream-colored taxis lined up ready to whisk you away.

Convenience

Due to the lack of direct public transportation from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi, taxis, along with private transfers, are considered the most convenient and worry-free ground transfer option to get to the heart of Abu Dhabi. Prices, however, can be a little unpredictable since customers get charged through a regular taximeter.

Editor’s Note

Great for a convenient travel solution on demand.

Useful Tips

All licensed taxis must operate using a taximeter. You should avoid anyone (scammers) offering rides at fixed prices, especially in Abu Dhabi.

Tipping drivers in Dubai is not expected nor obligatory, but you’re welcome to do so.

Always make sure that you are going to get a regular fare since some drivers with fancier cars will charge more.

Most local taxis take both cash and card payments.

How to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by bus (Red line + E101)

Sadly, there is no direct Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi bus. You will first have to take the red metro line to Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai for approximately 55 minutes. From there, you can hop on one of the intercity buses.

The best option is the E101, which gets you to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station in around 1 hour and 45 minutes. The bus also stops at “Samha 1” and “Shamaha Village” in Abu Dhabi, so check which bus stop is closest to your final destination.

The total travel time sums up to 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on wait times and traffic conditions.

How much is the bus from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

The ticket prices start at €1.50 (AED 6) for the metro connection and €6 (AED 25) for the intercity bus.

To ride public transport in Dubai, including buses and the metro, you’ll need a NOL card. You can buy one at airport ticket counters, vending machines, or any metro or bus station. For visitors, the Red NOL ticket is a convenient choice—it’s a one-time purchase of just €0.50 (AED 2).

Before using it, make sure to add credit, as the card must be topped up in advance to board any public transit service. As of March 2025, the minimum top-up amount at ticket vending machines is €4.77 (AED 20), and at metro ticket offices, it’s €12 (AED 50).

Photos (2)

Cost

€7.50

Trip Duration

2 H 50 Min

Waiting time for the E101 line is typically 20-30 minutes. The Red Metro Line departs every 4 to 7 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi bus timings are from 04:30 to 23:59. The Dubai Metro runs 05:00–00:00 (Mon–Thu, Sat), until 01:00 on Fridays, and 08:00–12:00 on Sundays.

Where do I get a bus from?

You can take the train to Ibn Battuta Metro Station from either Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 of DXB Airport. Upon arrival, simply exit the metro station and you’ll see the Ibn Battuta Bus Station opposite.

It’s easy to find the direct bus to Abu Dhabi, as the destination will be displayed on the front of the bus or on screens inside of the main bus station.

Convenience

Traveling from DXB Airport to Abu Dhabi is tiresome and long via public transport as there are no direct routes. Plus, carrying your luggage in the heat from the metro to the bus is exhausting after a long flight.

However, if you don’t mind the extra journey time and effort, it’s a good way to cut travel costs.

Timetables

RTA Journey Planner

Metro + Bus

Editor’s Note

Good budget-friendly option for experienced travelers with some time to spare.

Useful Tips

Metro ticket prices vary depending on how many zones you travel through.

Other Intercity Buses are available between Dubai city and Abu Dhabi, including the E102 and the 100. However, journey times are longer due to more stops.

Intercity buses are equipped with air conditioning, information screens, and comfortable seats.

You can check the timetables for the bus and metro on the Roads and Transport Authority website.

The bus station is fully equipped with cafeterias, kids areas, praying rooms, and more.

Children below 5 years of age can travel the metro for free.

How to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by private transfer

Opting for a private transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to travel. You’ll skip the taxi lines and enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience from the moment you land.

Trusted providers like Welcome Pickups offer tailored airport transfer services designed for convenience and peace of mind.

What’s included:

On-time pickup with real-time flight tracking
Friendly, fluent English-speaking driver
Effortless meet-and-greet service in the Arrivals Hall
Transparent, fixed pricing and simple online booking
24/7 customer support for any questions or changes

By reserving your transfer in advance, you can sit back and enjoy the ride—no last-minute worries or hidden fees.

How much is a private transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Booking a private transfer means locking in a fixed, all-inclusive rate. That means you don’t have to anxiously watch the meter tick up. Everything is arranged ahead of time, so you can relax knowing your fare is covered, no matter the traffic or delays.

Estimated rates for your Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi transfer:

Sedan (up to 4 passengers): €110
Minivan (up to 7 passengers): €187
Minibus (up to 12 passengers): €209

Reserve your ride through our website or mobile app (App Store | Google Play). Just enter your flight details, destination, and preferred pickup time to get an instant, personalized quote—no hidden fees, ever.

Photos (2)

Cost

€110

Trip Duration

1 H 30 Min

*Booking your private transfer from DXB Airport in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private transfers are operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from Dubai Airport.

Where do I get a private transfer from?

As soon as you land at Dubai Airport, your driver will be ready and waiting in the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. After greeting you, they’ll help with your luggage and escort you to your private vehicle.

And there’s no need to worry about delays, as your driver receives live flight updates and will adjust your pickup time accordingly, so someone will always be there when you arrive.

Convenience

If you’d rather skip the hassle of navigating public transport or waiting in taxi lines, a private transfer from Dubai International Airport is a great option. You’ll get a set fare upfront, plenty of space for your luggage, and a clean, air-conditioned ride, all arranged in advance.

It’s an easy, low-stress way to start your journey to Abu Dhabi, especially after a long flight.

Editor’s Note

Ideal for couples, families, business, and solo travelers who want a reliable 5-star service.

Useful Tips

We recommend setting your pickup time to at least 40 minutes after your scheduled landing time to allow enough time to get through baggage reclaim and passport control.

Sedans can seat up to 4 passengers, minivans can take up to 7, and minibusses can take larger groups of up to 12.

You do not have to tip your driver, however, you can still do so if you really appreciate the service.

You will receive an email with your driver's name, details, and vehicle information so that you know what to expect on the day.

If you need a child booster or baby seat, you can request one during the booking process online or using the app.

If your flight is delayed, there's no need to worry as our drivers receive live updates on delayed flights. And they will be there waiting for up to 1 hour free of charge.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Dubai. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€90

NIGHTTIME

€90

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai Airport

To travel from Dubai International Airport to Abu Dhabi, you can travel by taxi, transfer, or a combination of metro and bus. Taking a taxi or a transfer is the most popular option as it’s the only direct route. It should cost around €84 (AED 350) for the 1-hour and 30-minute journey. Alternatively, you can take the Red Metro line to Dubai City and then take the E101 bus to Abu Dhabi.

How much is a taxi from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Taxis are metered, so the final fare can vary depending on traffic levels and surcharges for factors like tolls. That said, the average cost of a taxi from DXB Airport to Abu Dhabi is €84 (AED 350).

Is there a free shuttle from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

No, there is no free shuttle from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi.

Is it easy to get a taxi from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Yes, Dubai Airport taxis are available 24/7 from all terminal exits. Although, as it’s a long journey, you may be charged more than if you book in advance. However, if you want to skip the taxi queue and secure a fair price, you can book a private transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups in advance.

Olivia De Santos

Olivia De Santos is a seasoned travel writer and adventurer with bylines in Lonely Planet and A Way Abroad. With over ten years of professional writing experience and a degree in Linguistics, she blends cultural insight and personal storytelling to help travelers see the world in a new light.

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How to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by taxi

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi taxi fares

Photos (1)

Cost

€84

Trip Duration

1 H 30 Min

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis at Dubai Airport are available 24h all year long, although expect longer waiting times during rush hours.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by bus (Red line + E101)

How much is the bus from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Photos (2)

Cost

€7.50

Trip Duration

2 H 50 Min

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi bus timings are from 04:30 to 23:59. The Dubai Metro runs 05:00–00:00 (Mon–Thu, Sat), until 01:00 on Fridays, and 08:00–12:00 on Sundays.

Where do I get a bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

RTA Journey Planner

Metro + Bus

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by private transfer

How much is a private transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Photos (2)

Cost

€110

Trip Duration

1 H 30 Min

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private transfers are operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from Dubai Airport.

Where do I get a private transfer from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai Airport

How much is a taxi from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Is there a free shuttle from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Is it easy to get a taxi from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

Olivia De Santos

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The best way to arrive in Dubai

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