Fastest ~1h30 by car
| 🚌 Bus | ~1h30–2h | RTA intercity E100/E101, Ibn Battuta/Al Ghubaiba to Abu Dhabi Central |
| 🚗 Car | ~1h30 | Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), ~150km, heavier at rush hour |
| 🚗 Car | ~1h30–2h | Private taxi/Careem/Uber, most expensive land option |
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Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the two largest cities in the UAE, connected by a motorway that covers roughly 150 kilometres of mostly straight desert highway. There is no passenger train between them — the intercity bus is the affordable public-transport option, while taxis, rideshare and a hire car offer door-to-door convenience. Here is how each option works.
Why there is no train yet
The UAE does not currently have an intercity passenger rail link between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, despite years of planning and discussion. Both cities have their own urban metro systems (Dubai Metro and the Abu Dhabi Metro, which is under development), but these do not connect the two cities. All intercity land travel is by road. A UAE National Rail network has been in planning; check the latest status before your trip, as the situation may evolve.
The public-transport option: intercity buses E100 and E101
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai operates two intercity bus routes to Abu Dhabi:
- E100: runs from Ibn Battuta Bus Station (metro: Ibn Battuta, Line 1) in Dubai to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Terminal on Al Wahda. Journey time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic. This is the main route for most travellers and runs frequently throughout the day.
- E101: runs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (in the old Deira area of Dubai) also to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Terminal, following a slightly different alignment. Journey time is similar.
Buses are air-conditioned, comfortable and the cheapest way to travel between the two cities. Fares are set by RTA and are very affordable. You can pay with a Nol card (Dubai's transport smart card) or cash. Departures are frequent during peak hours; check the RTA Dubai website for the current schedule.
Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport (formerly DoT) also operates buses on this corridor — check both RTA Dubai and Abu Dhabi transport for the most convenient departure point for your starting location.
Shared taxi (service taxi)
Traditional shared taxis (service taxis or baiza) used to be a common option between the emirates, departing when the vehicle filled with passengers. This option is less formalised than it once was, but some shared-ride services still operate informally from areas near the main bus terminals. The journey time is similar to the bus and the cost falls between bus and private taxi. Confirm pricing before you board.
Private taxi or rideshare
A private taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi will typically take 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic and your exact start and end points. Fares are set by meter plus an intercity supplement, and the total fare from central Dubai to central Abu Dhabi can be considerable — it is the most convenient but by far the most expensive land option. Both Careem and Uber operate in Dubai and can arrange intercity rides to Abu Dhabi, though these are effectively private hire journeys rather than pool rides.
Driving
The drive between the two cities is simple: the main route is Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), a wide, well-maintained multilane highway with ample fuel stations and rest stops. Distance is approximately 150 km and the drive takes around 1 hour 30 minutes in light traffic — substantially more during Dubai's morning and evening rush hours or on Friday afternoons when traffic leaving Dubai is heavy.
Driving is the most flexible option and makes sense if you need a car in Abu Dhabi, are travelling as a group, or are staying outside either city centre. Hire car companies at Dubai Airport and downtown Dubai can provide vehicles; confirm that cross-emirate travel is included in your rental agreement.
Speed limits are strictly enforced on UAE roads, and radar cameras are frequent along the E11. Be attentive to the posted limits, which can change.
Getting around Abu Dhabi on arrival
Abu Dhabi's city centre is relatively compact but spread out, and public transport within the city is primarily by bus or taxi. Taxis are plentiful and metered. The upcoming Abu Dhabi Metro will improve connectivity further once it opens.
Which should you choose?
The E100 intercity bus from Ibn Battuta is the smart choice for solo travellers and those without luggage: it is comfortable, affordable and well-organised. Drive (or take a private taxi) if you need door-to-door service, have a group, or are carrying heavy luggage to a specific address. The shared taxi offers a middle ground if you find one conveniently.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct train between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
No. There is currently no intercity passenger rail link between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The E100 and E101 intercity buses are the main public-transport option by land.
Where do I catch the E100 bus in Dubai?
The E100 departs from Ibn Battuta Bus Station, which is connected to Ibn Battuta Mall and the Dubai Metro (Line 1/Red Line). Check the RTA Dubai website for current departure times and any route updates.
How long does the bus take?
Typically around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The Sheikh Zayed Road between the two cities can be congested during peak hours, particularly in the late afternoon.
Can I use Careem or Uber for the journey?
Yes. Both Careem and Uber operate intercity rides from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, though these are private hire journeys and cost significantly more than the bus. They offer the convenience of door-to-door service.
Sources and further reading:
- Bus schedules and fares: Roads and Transport Authority Dubai (rta.ae) — E100/E101 intercity services.
- Abu Dhabi transport: Department of Municipalities and Transport Abu Dhabi (dot.abudhabi.ae).
- Rideshare: Careem (careem.com) and Uber (uber.com/ae).