Table of contents
Quick answer
Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) is about 1.5–2 hours from central Dubai by road. The cheapest option is the intercity bus, around AED 35 a person. A taxi or private car costs about AED 250 or more one-way and takes you door to door. Etihad passengers can also check the airline's own coach service to Dubai.
1What are the ways to get from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
| Option | Typical cost | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intercity bus | Typical costAbout AED 35 per person | Time2–2.5 hours | Best forSolo travellers with light bags |
| Taxi | Typical costAbout AED 250+ on the meter | Time1.5–2 hours | Best forArrivals without a booking |
| Private transfer | Typical costAbout AED 250–400+ per car | Time1.5–2 hours | Best forFamilies, groups, late arrivals |
| Airline coach (Etihad passengers) | Typical costCheck with the airline | TimeAbout 2 hours | Best forEligible Etihad tickets |
Benchmarks, not quotes. Salik and Darb tolls may be added on taxis and some transfers.
2Is there a bus from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
Yes. Intercity buses run between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, including services that call at or near the airport, and end at bus stations in Dubai with Metro connections. The fare is paid by card, and timetables change — check the operator's current schedule before you travel.
The bus is excellent value but the last leg to your hotel adds time: from the Dubai bus station you still need the Metro or a taxi.
3How much is a taxi from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
Abu Dhabi taxis from the airport rank will take you to Dubai on the meter, and the fare typically starts from around AED 250 for central Dubai, more for the Marina's far end or the Palm, plus tolls. It is door to door and simple, but a pre-booked car often costs about the same with a fixed price.
4When is a private transfer worth it?
With a family, a lot of luggage or a late-night landing, a transfer is the easiest option: the driver meets you in arrivals, tracks the flight and takes you to the door. Book with the terminal, flight number and your hotel's exact address, and confirm whether tolls are included.
Staying in Dubai Marina or Palm Jumeirah? They are on the Abu Dhabi side of Dubai, so AUH can be almost as quick as a jammed ride from DXB at rush hour.
5Arriving at Zayed International (AUH)
Abu Dhabi International was renamed Zayed International Airport in 2024; the code is still AUH, and flights use its large Terminal A. After immigration and baggage, taxis wait outside arrivals, transfer drivers meet in the hall, and the bus stops are signed. If you are staying in Abu Dhabi for a night first, the drive to Dubai is easy the next day.
6Which option should you choose?
| You are… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Solo on a budget with light bags | Best optionIntercity bus |
| A couple landing in the daytime | Best optionTaxi or transfer |
| A family or group with luggage | Best optionPre-booked transfer or van |
| Staying at Dubai Marina or Jebel Ali | Best optionTaxi or transfer — they are on the Abu Dhabi side |
| Planning to drive around the UAE | Best optionRent a car at the airport |
Frequently asked questions
How far is Abu Dhabi Airport from Dubai?
Roughly 1.5–2 hours by road to central Dubai, less to Dubai Marina and Jebel Ali.
How much is the bus from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
Around AED 35 per person. Check the operator's timetable before you travel.
Can I take a taxi from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
Yes. Taxis from the airport rank go to Dubai on the meter, typically from around AED 250 plus tolls.
Is it better to fly into Abu Dhabi or Dubai?
If you are staying in Dubai, DXB is closer. AUH can make sense for fares, for Etihad connections, or if you are visiting Abu Dhabi as well.
Is Abu Dhabi Airport the same as Zayed International Airport?
Yes. Abu Dhabi International Airport was renamed Zayed International Airport in 2024. The airport code is still AUH.
Which part of Dubai is closest to Abu Dhabi Airport?
Jebel Ali, Dubai Marina, JBR and the Palm are on the Abu Dhabi side of Dubai, so they are the shortest trips — often a little over an hour. Deira and the DXB area are the furthest.
Can I use Uber or Careem from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
Ride-hailing apps work in Abu Dhabi and you can book a ride to Dubai, but the trip is long and fares add up. Compare the app price with a taxi and a pre-booked transfer before you set off.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 22 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
