travel dubai airport to abu dhabi

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi – Transport Options Explained

Have you arrived at Dubai’s International Airport (DXB), but your end destination is actually Abu Dhabi ?

There are several different ways you can connect from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, some are slow but free, yes, FREE! Other options will get you there door to door but come at a cost.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi – Emirates Complimentary Coach

Other complimentary airline coach services in the uae, complimentary business and first class chauffers, using an airport taxi from dxb to abu dhabi, using a private transfer from dxb, using the public transport system from dxb to abu dhabi, self-driving dubai to abu dhabi.

If you’ve landed at DXB with Emirates, but your end destination is Abu Dhabi , you can book your airline ticket to end in Abu Dhabi and cover the last 160kms or so by ground transportation in a luxury coach.

When booking your airline ticket with Emirates, you simply need to enter your end destination as ZVJ. (Note Emirates does not fly directly to AUH airport, only DXB).

Your Abu Dhabi arrival point is outside the Emirates Abu Dhabi office in Khalidiya, on the Corniche.

Note that you still need to clear customs and collect your bags in Dubai Airport Terminal 3 before making your way to the coach service, parked in the same arrivals pick up zone as the taxis.

The bus runs five times a day (as of September 2023), and you will be allocated a seat at the same time you are issued your airline ticket. 

If your ticket only takes you to DXB, not ZVJ, you can call Emirates to add this service later after booking your ticket, but it MUST be pre-booked to guarantee your seat.

These are the current timings from DXB – you’ll want to give yourself at least an hour from disembarking and getting through immigration and customs.

There are several UAE airlines that also offer complimentary coaches , but none of these presently operate from DXB.

If you are transferring from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi Airport with an airline other than Emirates, you’ll need to make your way to that airline’s head office in Dubai to join their complimentary coach. For example:

• Etihad operates a complimentary coach from Al Wasl Center, on Sheikh Zayed Road
• AirArabia offers a service from their office in Karama.
• WizzAir used to offer a complimentary service on AUH Express , which leaves from Ibn Battuta; but it looks like WizzAir passengers now need to pay extra for this add-on from Dubai.

If you are travelling business or first class with Emirates, passengers are able to choose the convenience of completing their journey with a chauffeur, all included in their ticket price.

You still need to reserve your transfer in advance, but it is by far the easiest option if you’re flying on the top deck or pointy end with Emirates and must complete your journey from DXB to Abu Dhabi.

Airport taxis from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi are surprisingly efficient. It depends a bit on the vehicle size and how far into Abu Dhabi you’re travelling, but you can expect a standard taxi from the airport to cost around 350-400 AED and more like 500 – 550 AED if you need a 7 seater.

A standard Dubai taxi can only take a maximum of 4 passengers with 2 large pieces of luggage or 4 small cases. You’ll pay a 25 AED airport flagfall.

If you have a larger group, you’ll need an airport limousine. These cost an extra 1 AED per KM – which, over the 160 kilometres or so to Abu Dhabi, can quickly add up. There’s not much choice, though, with five passengers and luggage (beyond private services, which we’ll touch on below), so be prepared to pay more than 500 AED to get to Abu Dhabi in an airport limousine (these are usually Mercedes vans, not stretch limos!)

Worried about car seats for kids? Infant car seats can be borrowed on a complimentary basis from the taxi rank at DXB. Look out for this cabinet in the taxi queue (or ask staff to direct you). the taxi driver simply returns the seat when they next return to the airport.

You can use several private transfer services to complete your journey from DXB Airport to Abu Dhabi.

• The first and most obvious you’ve probably heard of before is Uber ( App Store | Google Play ), but also consider local company Careem ( App Store | Google Play ) – both will allow you to pre-book your service and lock in your price (do bear in mind what we said above, you may get just as good service with a public taxi).
• A trusted airport service that operates in many locations is Welcome Pick-Ups – see how their quotes compare to using a standard taxi.
• A unique private transfer method that is growing in popularity is Get Transfer – it runs kind of like an auction; you put your journey details in, and then drivers will bid to provide your service. If you get anything under 400 AED, we reckon you’re getting a good price. (NB similar service InDrive is not available in the UAE) .
• Tour and attraction providers such as Viator offer a wide range of competitively priced transport providers in the UAE.

We’re not going to lie; it’s not straightforward and will take you several hours to get from DXB to Abu Dhabi. However, if you’re travelling on a budget and got the time, this is the cheapest way of getting from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi or Zayed International Airport.

Relying just on public transport between the two cities involves:

• Taking the Metro from DXB Metro station (easily found in arrivals) to Al Ghubaiba Station (27 minutes, 5 AED) OR Ibn Battuta Station (1 hour, 8.50 AED). You will need a Nol card .
• From Al Ghubaiba, you can catch the 100 Intercity Bus to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, Al Wadha (approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes). This service costs 25 AED one way and can be paid for using your Nol card.
• From Abu Dhabi Central Station , you can connect to local bus services to reach your destination. If this is Zayed International Airport (the new Abu Dhabi International Airport), you’ll want to take the A2 Bus back out to the airport, which is approximately another 50-minute journey and 4 AED.
• We have found that it is easier to take the Metro all the way to Ibn Battuta in Dubai, then you have two public buses to choose from, the 101 or the 102, and the AUH Express Airport bus .
• The 101 Intercity Bus (25 AED one way) goes to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. You need to take a further bus back to the airport from there as described above. If you are seeking other areas of Abu Dhabi, this is the most convenient service as you can connect to Abu Dhabi suburban services.
• The 102 Intercity Bus (25 AED) makes a few stops en route to Mussfah, which is outside of Abu Dhabi city, but conveniently, one of these side stops is now Zayed International Airport Terminal A . It takes a few minutes longer than the express bus but is 10 AED cheaper. This is also the most convenient if you seek areas of Abu Dhbai such as Shahama, before reaching the city
• The AUH Express bus (35 AED) from Ibn Battuta station is the new obvious choice for the quickest direct connection to Zayed International Airport. Be mindful that it only leaves once an hour, every hour, 24 hours a day.

(NB Nol card is not used in Abu Dhabi; when you’re in Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, you’ll need to pick yourself up a Hafilat, Abu Dhabi bus card for local services).

Are you confident behind the wheel and feel you’ll need a vehicle for your onward travels in the UAE? Then you could rent a car in Dubai and drive to Abu Dhabi. This could actually work out to be your cheapest and fastest option, depending on how large a car you need and how long for.

• There are multiple car rental companies based in DXB, we recommend you use discovercars.com to compare prices.
• Before getting behind the wheel in the UAE, make sure you read our driving in Dubai guide that will take you through coping with the often manic Dubai traffic and eight-lane freeways, as well as explain speed limits and nuances between the emirates.
• Another cost to factor in, as well as the car hire and fuel, is that you’ll be charged for tolls that exist both in Dubai (Salik) and Darb tolls during peak hours in Abu Dhabi.

We hope this guide to Dubai airport transport to Abu Dhabi helps you understand all of the available options. Taking a taxi from DXB airport may be the most convenient, but not the cheapest. We hope you’ve found the UAE transport option here that fits your travel needs best.

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to all the best Dubai travel advice

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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How to Book the AUH Express Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai Shuttle

For two close neighbouring cities running huge international airlines, there’s one thing you think could be better organised in the UAE – that is connections between Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi Airport AUH) and Dubai – and vice versa!

A complimentary airline bus service operates between Dubai and AUH for Etihad customers if they have booked to start/end their journey with the correct airport code. However, its existence remains a bit of a mystery to travellers, and it’s only open to those flying with Etihad .

That’s why we were super excited in 2022 when Abu Dhabi Airports announced the new AUH Express shuttle service! Still running in 2024, with a much-expanded timetable, here’s what you need to know about using the Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai bus in 2024.

Please not that many parts of the UAE were impacted by significant flooding on 16 April 2024. The shuttle service is still running from AUH to Dubai, however, traffic diversions may still be in place which could impact the timing of your journey. (We understand buses are currently diverting to Al Jafiliya Bus Station)

AUH Express – Abu Dhabi Airport Shuttle to/from Dubai

A newly launched service, AUH Express, connects passengers from Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai.

Here’s what you need to know:

What does the Abu Dhabi Airport Shuttle Cost?

The Zayed International Airport shuttle service – known as AUH Express – costs passengers 35 AED ($8.20 USD/€7.68) each way.

New 2024! You can now pre-book your bus tickets online .

• Book your AUH Express ticket via ticketing agency Get Your Guide

This will save you from needing to queue for tickets when you arrive (and sometimes, with exchange rates, it works out fractionally cheaper!)

* We’re seeing many customers report that they were still requested to line up and exchange their online tickets for physical paper tickets.

The AUH Express is a little bit more than the Intercity Bus service E101 that runs from Abu Dhabi to Dubai and vice versa (AED 25), but remember, you are getting a point-to-point service here, so much faster; there is no need to catch a local bus into Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station in Al Wadha first, which will easily add an hour in the wrong direction to your overall journey.

A note for Wizz Air Passengers

Under an existing agreement with operator Capital Express, passengers holding a WizzAir ticket were initially allowed to use the AUH complimentary, but they are now being instructed to book a Wizz Transfer at a price of €9.99.

Honestly, skip this, and just use the Get Your Guide link above or pay cash for your ticket on arrival at AUH Zayed International Airport.

Where do I board the AUH Express?

You can buy tickets and board the service at Zayed International Airport (Terminal A arrivals; they have ceased serving the old Terminal 1 & 3) or Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai.

Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai is connected to the Red Line Metro, from where you can complete your journey in Dubai. Plentiful taxis and buses are also available from Ibn Battuta.

How long will the journey take on the Abu Dhabi Airport Shuttle?

The journey from AUH to Dubai will be (traffic-dependent), approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes ( though we note the published timetable in Ibn Batutta says only 1 hour 15 minutes ).

How often does AUH Express run?

The service has significantly expanded since the initial launch and now runs hourly from AUH and Dubai. The main stop is at AUH Terminal A (A few months after the new Terminal A opened, they’ve now dropped the additional stop at the Old Terminal 1/3 and Premier Inn).

AUH Express Timetable AUH to Ibn Battuta

Timings to be aware of! Although Ibn Battuta has great connections, be aware that the Dubai Metro shuts at 1:15am during the week and 2:15am at weekends. Factor this into your onward connections.

Ibn Battuta to Abu Dhabi Airport Bus Timings

NB signage at the bus stop indicates arrival times at quarter past the hour. These times will be traffic dependent.

For international departures from AUH airport you should try to arrive at least 3 hours before your flight time – longer if you will be clearing US Customs in Abu Dhabi

Do I need to pre-book my AUH Express shuttle ticket?

No, passengers are able to use this as a walk-up service. However, an online booking is possible.

There is a bus counter after you pass customs, where you collect your bags in the arrivals hall of AUH.

Coming from Ibn Batutta Bus Station, you’ll find the AUH Express coach at stand 11, where there is an adjacent ticket machine. As far as we’re aware, you CAN NOT use a Dubai Nol card to pay for the fare; you will need cash or a credit card if you don’t have a pre-paid ticket .

Flying with Etihad – Free Coach to/from Dubai

The new shuttle service will not replace the Etihad complimentary coach service . Both services are due to continue running, servicing different passenger needs.

Passengers wanting to use the Etihad coach must bear in mind that the service MUST be pre-booked at least 24 hours before their flight to guarantee their seat. The airline does now take walk-up passengers, but they are charged 25 AED.

To use the free Etihad Coach service, you must hold an EY flight ticket or codeshare and complete the online form here (or if using a travel agent, they can do this for you).

There are 10 daily services running at present from Downtown Dubai to AUH.

Note that the departure point in Dubai has changed; the new Etihad Travel Mall is at Al Wasl Centre ( not Mazaya Shopping Centre ). You’ll find it just behind the Safestway Supermarket on Sheikh Zayed Road, near Business Bay Metro Station on the Red Line Metro.

Air Arabia AUH To Dubai

Another airline joining the complimentary bus connection service is AirArabia. They are offering a twice-daily service from AUH to their office in Dubai, located at Shop 6, Al Sharafi Building No1, Karama (Opposite Karama Post Office)

The AirArabia coach service will depart at:

• 11:30 AM AUH to AirArabia Karama Office 2:00 PM
• 11:30 PM AUH to AirArabia Karama Office 2:00 AM

Please contact AirArabia to confirm they are still offering this service +971 4 388 0788 / +971 2 815 3455

Emirates Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Emirates also offers passengers from Abu Dhabi a complimentary coach transfer to DXB, but it’s very important to note that this service does NOT depart from AUH.

The Emirates office is based on the Abu Dhabi Corniche , 30-40 minute drive FURTHER AWAY from Dubai!

If you landed at AUH and wanted to use the Emirates complimentary coach, you’d have to take a taxi or take local bus services to the Emirates office to connect. The coach then drives back the way you just came!

On the plus side, once you’re on the bus, you’ll get dropped at the door for DXB; no further connections are needed in Dubai.

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The same service runs in return; you can board the Emirates free coach at DXB, and it will drop you back to the Abu Dhabi Corniche. Like Etihad, this service should be pre-booked in advance.

Direct connection AUH to DXB

Unfortunately, as much as the AUH Express improves transport connections between the two cities, it still does not resolve the fact that there is no direct connection between the two major international airports of the United Arab Emirates.

You can continue your journey to DXB from Ibn Battuta on the Metro, but bear in mind that it will add at least another hour to your journey, plus train/bus station connections. The Metro from Ibn Batutta to DXB starts from AED 7.50 (Silver Nol) or AED 15 (Gold Nol)

If you plan connecting flights between the two cities, you should allow yourself a minimum of 6 hours in case there are any delays in connections.

More FAQs on Abu Dhabi Dubai Shuttles

If you are flying with Emirates or Etihad, you can avail their free shuttle services. Etihad takes passengers from AUH to Etihad Travel Mall in Dubai, whilst Emirates takes passengers from Emirates’ office on the Corniche to DXB.

Transitting within Abu Dhabi, there is a free shuttle service to Yas Island destinations (albeit it’s not frequent), and you can avail the Visit Abu Dhabi free shuttle service to key tourist destinations. Learn more about the Visit Abu Dhabi bus here.

The AUH Express shuttle service costs AED 35 per person one way.

There are two choices to get between Abu Dhabi and Dubai by bus: The Abu Dhabi Airport Express, which departs from outside the arrivals hall at the new Zayed International Airport Terminal A. This bus terminates at Ibn Battuta. Alternatively, there are Intercity buses that depart from the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and arrive at Ibn Battuta or Al Ghubaiba in Bur Dubai.

We hope this guide has assisted you in making your onward travel arrangements in the UAE. Remember you can pop over her to see our complete Abu Dhabi transport guide which will help you with getting into the city centre of Abu Dhabi and onward to the regional cities.

Before you go… Important things to consider when planning a trip to Abu Dhabi

• Pop into our essential planni ng information page ; it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi , a handy guide on what to pack and top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE .
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !
• Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links . Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

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Transportation from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi

Dubai Airport (DXB) › Transportation › Airport to Abu Dhabi

Transfer Options from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi

Are you planning your flight trip to Dubai and are now in search of the best way to travel to Abu Dhabi right after landing at DXB Airport? Make your choice among the comfortable taxis or if the cost is a deal-breaker, settle on the combination of the fast Dubai subway with the comfortable Dubai buses . Alternatively, why not book a private transfer ensuring a pleasant, fast and safe ride from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi? Last but not least, are you an adventure lover? A Dubai airport car rental is the ideal way to reach your destination while exploring the exotic UAE areas. So, have you settled on your Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi transportation mode?

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by Taxi

A Dubai airport taxi is one of the most convenient ways to reach your destination in the nearby Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The official taxi ranks at DXB Airport are located outside the three terminals’ doors. There, the cream-colored taxis are patiently lining up, waiting to transfer the airport’s passengers to their journey’s end. The largest taxi company in Dubai, Dubai Taxi Corporation, is owned by the government, yet all the taxi companies are somewhat state-controlled anyway. That’s the reason why their fares are just about the same. In any case, you can tell each company’s vehicles apart as they display the company’s logo on their doors while their roofs are painted in different colors. Please note that taxis with pink roofs are driven by women and can be used only by women and children.

Dubai airport taxis are metered. Thus, road traffic greatly affects the final fare. Unfortunately, the route from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is often congested. Overall, under normal traffic conditions, your 150-km journey time should be about 90 minutes, and the taxi’s fare should be around 329 AED(82.50€/82.50$). However, you will also be charged the toll fees. Payments are possible in cash (dirhams) and via credit or debit cards, as all Dubai taxi drivers have POS systems. 

Our Tip : In the main Dubai bus stations, it is customary for taxi drivers to accept shared rides. Thus, if you are traveling alone, you can head to a major bus hub and share your taxi fees (and your cab, unfortunately) to Abu Dhabi with other passengers. However, in that case, the taxi will most probably drop you off at the main bus station in Abu Dhabi.

We selected one of the best, most trustworthy and convenient 5-star airport taxi companies for your transfer from Dubai Airport based on user reviews across various platforms such as Google, Tripadvisor and Trustpilot. Welcome Pickups offers a great experience and safety to its travelers. Local English-speaking drivers Flat, pre-paid fee Flight monitoring for delays 24/7 Customer support + free cancellation

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi by Subway & Bus

Although DXB Airport is not directly connected to Abu Dhabi via public transportation, you can use the modern Red Subway Line calling at DXB terminals 1 and 3 and heading to Ibn Battuta Bus Station or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in the city center. From there, Buses E101 and E100 respectively leave Dubai and head to Abu Dhabi.

Dubai subway is clean and efficient while offering Wi-Fi to its passengers. What’s more, it operates with a 4-7-minute frequency. However, it doesn’t run 24/7, but its operational hours vary depending on the day of the week. Thus from Monday to Thursday and on Saturdays, trains leave DXB Airport from 05:00 am to midnight. On Fridays, trains run from 05:00 am to 01:00 am, and on Sundays, from 08:00 am to midnight. Moreover, only one piece of luggage and a handbag are allowed inside the subway.

On the other hand, Dubai intercity buses (standing out from the others by the letter “E” before their number) are comfortable, air-conditioned, with plenty of storage space, and provide Wi-Fi services as well.

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi via the Ibn Battuta Bus Station

The first option for your public transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is to take the  Red Subway Line from either of the airport subway stations and head to Ibn Battuta Metro Station. From that point, the bus station will be only a 5-minute walk away. However, as the Red Line branches in two directions at Jabal Ali Station, you will have to   change trains there and continue your trip to the next stop (Ibn Battuta Station) with the Branch Line (MBrch). All in all, your subway journey to Ibn Battuta Bus Station will last approximately 1 hour. The  Intercity Bus E101  runs on a 20-minute basis. During the night, buses leave every hour. From Monday to Saturday, Bus 101 runs from 04:30 am to midnight, while on Sundays, it is available from 04:20 am to 00:30 am. The bus ride to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station takes around 90 minutes, making the total journey time from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi approximately  150 minutes , without including the waiting time.   

Our Tip : From Ibn Battuta Bus Station, you can also take the  E102 bus.  E102 needs 2 hours to reach Abu Dhabi while terminating its route at Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station. However, it calls at Abu Dhabi Airport as well.

Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi via the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station

Alternatively, you can take the  Red Subway Line  from the airport to Union Station and change to the  Green Line  heading to Al Ghubaiba Subway Station. The Al Ghubaiba Bus Station is 6 minutes away on foot from the subway station. Your subway ride will last about 32 minutes. At Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, you’ll hop on the I ntercity Bus E100  to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. In general terms, it runs every half hour and operates from 04:20 am to 11:20 pm. On Fridays and during weekends, its routes are more frequent. The trip with Bus E100 lasts 110 minutes. Therefore, the total transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi should take  140 minutes . Waiting time for the subway and bus is not included. Still, as all lines run frequently, waiting shouldn’t add much time to the entire journey’s duration. 

Our Tip 1 : If you want to save time (but not money), you can take an airport taxi to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station.

Our Tip 2 : During Ramadan, timetables usually change. 

How Much will your Journey cost?

To begin with, you can’t pay for your transfer in cash. Conversely, you will have to buy a rechargeable  Nol Card  at the airport subway station or the automatic machines of the Arrivals halls, charge it with money, and use it both for your subway and bus rides. There are 4 different types of Nol Cards: the  Red Ticket  is a contactless paper card, which can be loaded with 10 single tickets or 5 daily passes. It costs 2 AED(0.50€/0.50$) and is valid only for train, subway, and bus rides. However, a Red Card gives passengers the right to use only one mode of transport per trip. The  Silver Card is priced at 25 AED(6.28€/6.28$) (offering though a 19 AED(4.77€/4.77$) credit) and can be used on trains, trams, subway, buses, sea buses, taxis, and even for parking. Please keep in mind that unless you transfer from one transport means to the other within 30 minutes, you will be charged for two trips. The Gold Card is preferred by passengers wishing to travel on the Dubai trains Gold Class, while the  Personal Card  is mainly used by locals. In all the above cases, children up to 5 years of age travel free.

If you choose the Ibn Battuta Station and the Intercity Bus E101, you will have to pay 7.5AED(1.88€/1.88$) for your subway ride (as the station is located two zones away from the airport) if you have a Silver Card and 8.5 AED(2.14€/2.14$) if you’ve bought the Red Ticket. The bus fare will be 25 AED(6.28€/6.28$), and the total cost of your ride  32.50 AED (8.17€/8.17$) . 

If you are heading to Al Ghubaiba Station, while the cost of the E100 bus will be the same, you will pay 5 AED(1.26€/1.26$) with a Silver Card and 6 AED(1.50€/1.50$) with a Red Ticket for the subway, as the bus station lies in the adjacent to the airport zone. Thus, your total transfer will be priced at  30 AED (7.54€/7.54$) .

Our Tip 1 : If you are traveling economy class via Emirates, you can use their free airport shuttle transfers. However, you should mention it during your reservation. The Emirates coaches leave from DXB terminal 3 to Abu Dhabi.

Our Tip 2 : Please remember that  Nol Cards  can  only  be used in Dubai. They are not valid in Abu Dhabi. 

Car Rental from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi

A Dubai airport car rental is one of the most convenient and easy ways to get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi. If you enjoy independent journeys and you have a parking spot waiting for you in Abu Dhabi, don’t overthink it. Make your pick among the numerous car rental companies operating at DXB Airport and start your trip stress-free.

The estimated duration of your ride will be about 90 minutes. Nevertheless, the unfortunately common traffic jams can raise that time significantly. What’s more, you should keep in mind that the route from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is a toll road. Hence, you should be prepared for the toll fees. Still, Dubai’s car rentals remain the most autonomous way to travel to Abu Dhabi and explore its nearby areas.

Private Airport Transfers from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi

If airport taxis are convenient and car rentals are independent, Dubai airport transfers are the most luxurious and pleasant way to reach Abu Dhabi after arriving at DXB Airport. Your driver will be waiting for you at the exit of your gate, ready to carry your luggage and drive you to Abu Dhabi once you get comfortable inside the vehicle. Thus, if you want to enjoy premium transfer services from Dubai Airport Abu Dhabi, all you have to do is choose one of the private transfer companies operating at Dubai Airport and book your ride.

How do I get from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?

You have two alternatives when it comes to your transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi: the convenient yet costly airport taxi or the cheap but highly tedious combination of the Red Subway Line with the intercity Dubai buses. Alternatively, private airport transfers and car rentals are also listed among your options.

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

Dubai taxis are metered. Hence, their fares depend on the traffic conditions. In any case, Dubai taxis usually charge 329 AED(82.50€/82.50$) for the 90-minute transfer from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi.

Is a bus available from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

Three intercity bus lines leave Dubai, heading to Abu Dhabi. Bus E100 connects Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, while Bus E101 departs from Ibn Battuta Station, with the main bus station of Abu Dhabi as its destination. Finally, Bus E102 also runs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station but heads to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station, stopping at Abu Dhabi Airport on its way.

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

The bus ticket from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs 25 AED(6.28€/6.28$) for all three bus lines. However, the purchase of a contactless Nol Card is required to pay for your ticket.

Dubai Airport (DXB) transfer to Abu Dhabi

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On time, found us quickly at the airport. Very nice car.

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Dubai Airport (DXB) transfer to Abu Dhabi map

Dubai airport (dxb) to abu dhabi transfer time.

1 hour 33 minutes approximately

Dubai Airport (DXB) to Abu Dhabi distance

103 Miles approximately

165 Kilometres approximately

This map and route are for information purposes only, with no guarantee of accuracy or completeness. The transport company retains absolute discretion to choose the route to your destination. Distance and travel times are only indicative between origin and destination points.

In and around Abu Dhabi

• Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH)
• Dubai Airport (DXB)
• Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum Airport (DWC)
• Sharjah Airport (SHJ)
• Dubai Cruise Terminal - Port Rashid
• Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal - Palm Island

Transport to Abu Dhabi

• Wheelchair adapted
• Airport transfer
• Private transfer
• Chauffeur service
• Cruise transportation

Fastest way to get from Dubai Airport (DXB) to Abu Dhabi

The fastest way to get to Abu Dhabi will be with a pre-booked taxi or minibus waiting to whisk you off on arrival.

Cheapest way from Dubai Airport (DXB) to Abu Dhabi

The most economical way to travel to Abu Dhabi is by bus. Shared transport options will be more budget friendly as you will be sharing the travel with other passengers.

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Know your options! How to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Airport shuttles.

• Car Rentals

Other Options

Residents and visitors often have to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai for work or to explore the various attractions in each emirate. If you are interested in scheduling an Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai, various modes of transportation are available to help you get to the capital. Wondering how to go from Dubai to Abu Dhabi? Here are your options.

How to go to Dubai from Abu Dhabi?

If you are going from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, the journey would roughly take an hour and a half. Wondering how to reach Abu Dhabi from Dubai? You can do so via taxis, buses and airport shuttles. Remember, these choices vary in terms of routes, fare and other features.

How far is Dubai from Abu Dhabi?

The distance between the two emirates is approximately 140 km by road. However, the estimate depends on where you take the measurement from.

Let’s now explore the various ways to travel, including buses, taxis and car rentals, to help you determine the best option for your travel preferences and budget.

Booking a Dubai to Abu Dhabi taxi is a good option for those looking for a faster commute. This journey is usually about an hour and 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

• Taxis can be found throughout Dubai, either hailed on the street or booked through a ride-hailing app. Dubai airport taxis are well-maintained and offer a comfortable and air-conditioned ride, but their rates for the complete journey may be higher than regular taxis.
• Those arriving at Dubai International Airport Terminal 1, 2 or 3 can use RTA Airport Taxis to reach the UAE capital. These taxis have a base fare of AED 25 and charge AED 2.19 for every km.
• A standard trip by taxi from Downtown Dubai costs between AED 250 and AED 300 one way. The ride begins at AED 5 if you are travelling during the day, with an additional AED 2.19 per kilometre charged after that. This may be expensive, but it is the easiest way to reach Abu Dhabi. If you travel at night (after 10:00 pm), the metre starts at AED 5.50.

Other options

Still wondering how to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi? If you don’t prefer the mentioned options, you can always rely on transportation companies for private transfer. GetTransfer.com offers the following pricing packages for Economy, Comfort and Business.

Depending on your luggage and the number of people in your party, you can expect to pay anywhere from AED 258 to AED 1,300 for a private transfer. The obvious benefit is that you will be able to set your own time and request add-ons like car seats for kids.

For those looking for a cost-effective and convenient way to travel, Dubai to Abu Dhabi intercity bus service is a great option. This journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes and offers a comfortable, air-conditioned ride. Apart from being affordable, the bus service is convenient. For some it is the best way to go from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

Two transportation services: E100 and E101, pick up residents from different locations in Dubai. The E100 bus departs from Al Ghubaiba bus station in Dubai and arrives at Abu Dhabi Central bus station, with multiple departure times throughout the day.

• E100: Operates between Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (CBS)
• E101: Operates between Ibn Battuta Bus Station and Abu Dhabi CBS

NOL tickets can be purchased from the stations before boarding. The bus is equipped with soft and comfortable seats, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Remember to check Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus timings on the RTA official website during Eid and other national holidays.

Which Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus should I choose?

If you are coming from Dubai Marina , Palm Jumeirah, JBR, or JLT , then E101 is your best bet, arriving at and departing from Ibn Battuta Mall. The shopping centre also has a taxi stand and a metro station so you can easily continue to your next destinations.

However, Downtown Dubai or Old Dubai residents will find it easier to board the E100 at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai. These shuttles are air-conditioned.

Don’t forget to top up your NOL card , an electronic bus pass system introduced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in the UAE. With this smart card, you can purchase a one-way ticket for the RTA bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for AED 25.

Etihad Airways and Emirates offer complimentary Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport bus shuttles for economy-class passengers. They run multiple times a day.

Etihad Shuttles

If you are an Etihad passenger, you can get a coach from the pick-up point at the lower levels of Abu Dhabi International Airport Arrivals. The coach is air-conditioned and offers access to Wi-Fi. Al Wasl Centre is the pick-up/drop-off location in Dubai.

Please book a seat on Etihad Coach at least 24 hours in advance to avoid inconvenience.

Emirates Shuttles

The complimentary coach service for Emirates passengers can be availed from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport . The Emirates bus from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi is also air-conditioned to ensure a comfortable journey. This bus service must be booked at least 48 hours in advance to avoid inconveniences.

Additionally, some hotels may offer a free shuttle bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to their guests, so it is a good idea to check with your hotel in advance.

Rent-a-car 

For those who want the flexibility to explore both cities at their own pace, Dubai to Abu Dhabi car rental is a suitable option. This provides the convenience of door-to-door transportation, but one should familiarise themselves with the rental process and driving regulations in the UAE before beginning the journey.

If you want to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai alone, car rental services in Dubai can also assist you. An example is Avis.

Location and contact of Avis in Dubai

• Jumeirah Beach Residence: The Walk | +971-4-518-6822
• Sheikh Zayed Road: Near Financial Centre Metro Station | +971-4-518-6833
• Avis Circle Village: Circle Mall, JVC | +971-4-518-6755
• Radisson Red: Dubai Silicon Oasis | +971-4-518-6799

Opening hours of each branch vary.

Apart from Avis, Speedy Drive, One Click, Sixt, Al Emad Cars, and Thrifty UAE offer car hire facilities in the city. Another option is Hertz, which allows you to reserve a slot online.

Those new to the capital have also been known to rely on ride hailing apps in Abu Dhabi — the most popular being Uber and Careem. The price depends on the type of ride selected, estimated length and traffic conditions.

Taking an Uber to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi may come with these charges:

• Green: AED 507
• Comfort: AED 507
• Family: From AED 417
• Black: AED 733

The Hala Taxi category in the Careem app is a good choice for those in search of a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Just:

• Open the Careem App and select Hala Taxi
• Enter your desired destination
• Select where you want to be picked
• Tap Yalla and wait

A Hala Taxi can cost anywhere from AED 100 to AED 300 depending on your current location and where you need to go in Abu Dhabi.

FAQs about entering Abu Dhabi from Dubai

What is the best way to get from dubai to mussafah.

A convenient option is via bus, specifically the E102 from Al Jafiliyah to Mussafah.

What is the cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

The cheapest way is via bus. Those on a budget may consider this the best way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?

The driving distance between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is more than 125 km. Are you moving to the capital permanently? Know what to do while moving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi .

Is there a Dubai to Abu Dhabi train service?

Interestingly, Dubai to Abu Dhabi train will soon become a reality when Etihad Rail passenger trains are fully functional. The entire journey on the train from Dubai to Abu Dhabi will take less than an hour!

Another upcoming project in the works is the Dubai to Abu Dhabi Hyperloop . Once complete, travel between the two emirates will become faster than before.

How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai quickly?

Wonder how to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai quickly? The best way to reach your desired location is by boarding a taxi or driving yourself. It will get you to your destination within one hour and ten minutes.

Want to go to other emirates from Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Consider the Inter – emirate bus services in the UAE .

How to reach Abu Dhabi from Dubai by Metro?

The Dubai Metro doesn’t directly connect to Abu Dhabi. However, you can use the Dubai Metro Red Line to reach Ibn Battuta Mall Metro Station and board the Abu Dhabi bus (E101) from the Ibn Battuta Metro Bus Stop.

How to go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai by bus?

If you want to return to Dubai from Abu Dhabi, you can take the E100 and E101 RTA buses. Check out the official bus routes for the Abu Dhabi to Dubai intercity buses .

Once you reach the capital city, don’t forget to check out the major tourist spots in Abu Dhabi . There are also plenty of Instagrammable destinations in Abu Dhabi to visit!

We hope this guide helps you plan your travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, you can make sure that your journey between these two cities is smooth and enjoyable by planning and choosing the option that best fits your needs.

Let us know in the comments section below if you know of other means of travelling between the two emirates.

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How to Go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. This article has been viewed 115,453 times. Learn more...

There are neither train services nor direct flights from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available to you. With the development of public transportation, car rentals, taxis, and even helicopters, there is a transportation option for every budget.

Riding the Airline Shuttle

• You can view running times and reserve your seat on the Etihad shuttle by visiting etihad.com/en-ae/plan-and-book/book-etihad-express/.
• Emirates does not offer an online booking method, but you can check out what times the coaches run at https://www.emirates.com/english/before-you-fly/dubai-international-airport/shuttle-service-dubai/ .

• Store your luggage in the compartment under the shuttle for a comfortable ride, but keep personal and financial items such as passports and credit cards with you at all times.

Taking the Public Bus

• If you are in Bur Dubai, Satwa, or Karama, take the E100 bus from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
• If you are in Marina, JLT, or the JBR area, take the E101 bus from the Ibn Battuta Metro Station.

• An RTA Nol card is a smart card that basically functions as an electronic bus pass. You can purchase one of the many ticket offices, RTA customer services centers, and even ticket vending machines.

• Keep in mind when you are traveling that buses only run from 6am-11pm. Have an alternate method of transportation or book a room if you decide to stay in Abu Dhabi past 11pm.

• Since you will most likely be able to store your bag directly overhead, there is no need to keep personal or financial items on your person. They should be safe in your bag until it’s time to exit the bus and compartments are opened.

• The bus ride is a great time to catch up on emails, read a book, or listen to your favorite playlist.

Hiring a Taxi

• A one-way trip to Abu Dhabi via taxi will cost you around 250AED (about 68 USD). However, be prepared to pay more than that in case of unexpected delays on the highway.

• If you have a driver who is willing to engage in conversation, ask about places to go in Abu Dhabi. They can most likely tell you about local hangouts and fun activities to do during your trip.

Renting a Car

• The most common route is to take the Sheikh Zayed Road, or Highway E 11. Depending on where you enter the highway, it has at least one toll. Tolls typically cost 4 AED.

Flying by Helicopter

• Flying to Abu Dhabi in a helicopter is the most costly option for transportation. For 5 people, it will cost you around 14,900 AED, which is about 4,056 USD.

Expert Q&A

• Always research the local legislature of anywhere you plan to travel to avoid problems with law enforcement. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid scammers by researching the names of local taxi companies beforehand so that you will recognize their taxis. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 2

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://gulfnews.com/news/uae/society/taxi-drivers-in-uae-manage-to-steer-demanding-job-on-the-road-1.1992395
• ↑ https://www.visitdubai.com/en/articles/tipping-in-dubai

About This Article

To go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, take a bus, taxi, or rent a car. If you purchased economy class tickets from Emirates or Etihad airlines, you can get a free shuttle bus to Abu Dhabi. The buses run multiple times a day and take about 2 hours to get to Abu Dhabi. If you didn’t fly with Emirates or Etihad airlines, get a public bus from the nearest bus station. Just get a card from the ticket machines, which usually cost about 7 dollars. Alternatively, hire a taxi to Abu Dhabi. This will cost you upwards of 70 dollars, but will be quicker than the buses. If you want more control over your transport, you can also rent a car. Just make sure you have your local and international driver’s licenses with you. For more tips, including how to fly to Abu Dhabi by helicopter, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Getting From Dubai to Abu Dhabi; The Easiest Ways in 2024

Want to visit several cities in the UAE but not sure how to get around?

The two most popular cities for visitors are Dubai and Abu Dhabi – but is it possible to visit both in one trip to the UAE? Is it easy to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai? What if you fly into one city and out of the other or want a car rental to road trip elsewhere in the UAE?

We explain exactly how you get around in the UAE here!

How Far is Dubai from Abu Dhabi

The distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is approximately 160 kilometres, but it depends on where you are taking your measurements from!

Both cities sprawl without a definitive city centre or end.  From the outer areas of both cities, the journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is about 1 hour, or using public transport it can take up to 3 hours.

How To Get From Dubai to Abu Dhabi (and Vice Versa!)

There is no direct commercial flight connection between the two cities and no train line at present (though we’ll discuss this more below!). The only option currently is by road, which still leaves you quite a few options:

Public Transport: Intercity Bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Free airline buses from dubai to abu dhabi, free airline buses from abu dhabi to dubai, paid airport transfers dubai to auh, taxies and hired drivers between dubai and abu dhabi, join a tour group between dubai and abu dhabi, self-drive – hire a car in the uae, uae trains – etihad rail and the hyperloop, how to get from dubai to other cities in the uae.

We explain how each of these works below.

The Intercity Bus  is the cheapest way to connect between the two cities. It leaves Dubai from two locations:

• Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai (Route 100) to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station , approx. 120 minutes
• Ibn Battuta Mall (Route 101) to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station approx. 90 minutes and Route 102 to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station , approx. 1 hour 55 minutes.

All routes on the Intercity service cost 25 AED one way. You can pay cash at the counter or use your Dubai NOL card, which also works on Dubai buses and the Metro (but NOT on Abu Dhabi public transport. Abu Dhabi uses Hafilat bus cards).

Abu Dhabi to Dubai Bus

The Intercity Bus also runs in reverse from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (next to Al Wadha Mall) back to Al Ghubaiba or Ibn Battuta Mall and Mussafah Shabiya to Ibn Battuta.

Connecting to Dubai International Airport DXB

From Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, you can connect to DXB by:

• Taking bus 33 or 42 to Terminal 1
• Taking bus 31 to Terminal 2
• Take the Metro green line to Burjuman, switch to the red line for Terminal 3
• Catching a short taxi – approx 30 AED

Connecting to Zayed International Airport AUH

From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to the new Abu Dhabi international airport, AUH:

• Take bus 2A from outside the station to Terminal A, leaves every 40 minutes 4 AED
• Take a taxi – approx 30 minutes and cost 50AED

Looking to visit the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi from Dubai?

It is possible to catch public transport, though not all that straightforward if you are travelling with kids.  You would need to catch the Intercity bus as described above, then a local bus to the Grand Mosque; there are several routes, and the most direct is Route 32 , which costs 2 AED per person.

Related Reading: Our full guide on how to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 

If you are planning to visit, say, the Louvre or Emirates Palace on an Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai, note none of these popular Abu Dhabi sites are anywhere near each other! It is easy enough to navigate your way around town by taxi, but the costs will add up. 

It makes hiring a car from Dubai , a private driver or joining a tour start to make sense if you’re travelling in a group and want to make multiple stops.

Both the major airlines in the UAE – Etihad and Emirates – offer FREE services connecting the two cities. However, the bus stations are not in the most convenient of locations;  it’s not an airport-to-airport transfer!

Be aware of this if you have flights from DXB (Emirates) and AUH (Etihad); careful planning is needed, and pay attention to the airport codes we’re about to share!!!

Flying Emirates

If you’re flying Emirates but ultimately want to end in Abu Dhabi , your ticket can be issued to include the free transit bus through to your destination. The Emirates bus stop in Abu Dhabi is at their Khalidiya office on the Corniche (NB, this is nowhere near AUH airport!)

You can see the Emirates shuttle schedule here .

When you book your airline ticket, book the final location as ZVJ (not DXB) to guarantee your seat on the free bus. You must transfer immediately from DXB after your flight lands – no Dubai sightseeing on the way!

If you have an onward connection to AUH, the taxi back to the airport is about 80 AED extra.  We’re not aware of any baggage service at the bus stop (it is really just a car park). If you want to do Abu Dhabi sightseeing before your next flight, your bags will need to come with you or return to AUH first to store your bags.

You can organise a baggage transfer with Emirates to AUH for 200 AED, but by this point, you may as well have paid for a metered taxi door-to-door.

Flying Etihad

If you have an Etihad flight but you are leaving from Dubai, you can start your journey at the Etihad Travel Mall (Downtown Dubai).  The code you need to book your flight is XNB (instead of AUH).

Note that for business or First-class passengers on either airline, a complimentary private chauffeur is provided; just remember to confirm your booking at least 48 hours in advance to use this service.

So let’s switch it around, if you’re starting in Abu Dhabi but must depart from Dubai.

If you are flying with Emirates,  you can catch the  complimentary bus service  from outside their Khalidiya office to Dubai International Airport (DXB).

You can only catch the bus on the day of travel – book your departure from ZVJ.

If you have arrived at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) with Etihad Economy and want to connect straight to Dubai, you can arrange a seat on the  Etihad Coach ,  departing from AUH and taking you to the Etihad Travel Mall (Downtown Dubai) – use airport code XNB when booking. 

If you have an onward flight from DXB, expect a taxi from Etihad Travel Mall to DXB to cost 40 AED.

The journey in either direction from Dubai to Abu Dhabi takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes, but for arrivals, you will likely be booked on a service at least 1 hour after your landing time. For departures, they will suggest catching the service listed at least 4 hours before your departure.

If you are flying with any other airline, sadly, these complimentary bus services are not available to you.

A new paid transport option has emerged by way of the AUH Expres s bus service . Passengers flying out of AUH no longer need to take a local bus into Al Wadha before connecting to an intercity bus to the airport.

Instead, passengers can now buy a bus ticket from Ibn Battuta Bus Statio n to the new Zayed International Airport for 35 AED ( or book it online in advance ) and board the comfortable air-conditioned AUH express coach.

The AUH express goes directly to AUH from Ibn Battuta Station in Dubai and only takes a little over 1 hour.

Coming the other direction, you can get an AUH Express ticket from inside Zayed International Airport or pre-purchase here and take the coach service to Ibn Battuta. From there, passengers can purchase a Nol and continue their journey onward using the Metro.

Just be mindful, that many flights land in the middle of the night in AUH; the AUH Express is running overnight, but the Metro may be closed at this time of night, you may need to complete your journey by taxi.

The most straightforward way to transit between the two cities is to hail a metered taxi.  They should take you door to door, but sometimes taxis will insist on pulling over at the first petrol station over the border to swap passengers to the taxi service for that Emirate. (It is not clear if there is a law that requires this or simply the taxi doesn’t want to be that far out of his zone; A Dubai taxi cannot pick up a new fare in Abu Dhabi and vice versa.)

From DXB to downtown Abu Dhabi, expect a fair between 275 – 350 AED.

If you hire a private driver, the same trip is likely to cost you 350 – 500AED, depending on the size of the vehicle booked.  The advantage is you can pre-book your exact time, and you may be able to add extras like car seats to your orders.

• See AUH to Dubai City private transfer options Get Your Guide
• Abu Dhabi to Dubai private driver services Viator

• Book a transfer using Welcome Pickups

If you would like to see the highlights of each city on a day trip, there are plenty of options for travelling in both directions.  Always check out reviews and see how long the tour will last. 

As a family, be aware that quoted prices will be per seat on the bus or minivan; if you have a larger group, a private tour group could work out more economical.

Abu Dhabi Day Trips from Dubai

Dubai day trips from abu dhabi.

NB: If you are day-tripping from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for the Yas theme parks, don’t forget they offer a FREE shuttle service from numerous Dubai locations – learn more about this service over here.

If you are a confident driver, self-driving is the easiest way to get around in the UAE, offering you the most flexibility travelling between the two cities.

Most visitors self-driving will need to hire a car.  Even if you have friends living in the UAE, you need to have a UAE driver’s license to be covered by the vehicle’s insurance.  We recommend it is easier and safer for visitors to hire where overseas licenses are accepted on a tourist visa. 

We recommend DiscoverCars.com to compare prices before booking .

Things to be mindful of when hiring a car in the UAE

• The UAE drives on the right, with the steering wheel on the left.
• Almost all cars have automatic transmissions.
• The traffic goes FAST! It can be a little hectic with 6-lane freeways to one-way systems.
• Car seats are required by law up to 4 years old (albeit enforcement of this law is not prevalent). Better safe than sorry BYO car seats, or you can hire from the car rental company.
• Hiring a car one-way between the two cities is likely to incur an extra one-way hire fee.
• The speed limit signs differ between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Once you’re on the freeway, you can travel at 140 km/hr. Dubai signposts this as 120 km/hr but includes a 20km/hr “buffer” before you’re fined. In Abu Dhabi, the posted limit is now the actual limit – i.e. max 140 km/hr on the freeway.
• There are tolls in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai; Your rental company will have the car appropriately registered but will on-charge any toll fees to you as the driver.
• Heading further into the desert? Read this guide if you are new to desert driving conditions in the extreme heat.

Could you imagine an ultra-fast shuttle service could cut the transit time between the two cities to a mere 15 minutes? A Hyperloop service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi has long been touted but has admittedly grown quiet in the last few years.

The more imminent reality is that a standard high-speed train service will commence between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the near future. Etihad Rail will eventually connect all of the Emirates with freight and passenger services, as well as connect to neighbouring countries Oman and Saudi Arabia.

There’s no date given at this stage for the launch of the passenger service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi but it will certainly be a welcome transportation link between the two cities helping to cut down traffic and time.

A private hire car is the easiest way to get beyond the big cities and see the other Emirates as it allows you the flexibility to travel door to door.  If you are not a confident driver, however, or you prefer someone else to take the driving while you’re on holiday, then it’s perfectly understandable.

You may also want to check out our other guides on how to get around the Emirates by road:

• How to get between Dubai and Ras al Khaimah, the northern Emirates route
• Road tripping from Dubai to the east coast of Fujairah
• How to get from Dubai to Sharjah
• How to get from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to the Oasis City of Al Ain
• How to road trip from Dubai to the Musandam Peninsular, Oman
• Road tripping from Dubai & crossing the Oman border to Muscat

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Please note this article has been updated post-COVID. There are no longer any border restrictions on crossing between the Dubai and Abu Dhabi emirates. This page contains affiliate links which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you if a booking is made. You can read our full terms of use and disclosure policy here.

The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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How to get from muscat to musandam, 90+ indoor activities for kids in dubai – 2024 family …, what should i wear in abu dhabi & …, carols in the desert ~ a unique uae ….

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Bus Abu Dhabi to Dubai: Trip Overview

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According to 49 reviews, Abu Dhabi Airport Express received a 3.4-star rating for this journey. Travelers were especially satisfied with the cleanliness and the temperature, but some complained about the wifi. Abu Dhabi Airport Express ticket prices on this trip start at $13.00

Abu Dhabi Airport Express Abu Dhabi Dubai recent customer reviews

We booked ticket for 5am and the office staff did not allow to board at 5 am bus. They insisted the bus time has to be +2 hours of booked bus time I.e 7 am in my case. It was worst experience with ground staff. Rest everything was great.

It was very convenient and cost efficient to take the airport express bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

It did not say anywhere that I need to pass by counter even if I have barcode - and instructions were missing that the pick up is on exit 7 arrival side not departure

Abu Dhabi to Dubai Buses

Busbud helps you find a bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Get the best fare and schedule, book a round trip ticket or find buses with WiFi and electrical outlets.

We make it our job to connect you with the most dependable bus companies that cover bus service from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.

Whether it is cheap bus tickets or more luxurious buses going to Dubai from Abu Dhabi, we help you find what you're looking for based on how much of a budget you have.

Information on this bus route

Frequently asked questions for your trip abu dhabi - dubai, how do i get from abu dhabi to dubai without a car.

The best way to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is by bus. Traveling by bus offers a budget-friendly, secure, and easy way to go between the two cities. You also have the option of using carpooling services.

How long is the bus ride from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

The travel time from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is about 1h 30m, but the quickest bus can get you there in about 1h 30m. This is the time it takes to travel the 62 miles (100 km) that separate the two cities.

How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?

The distance between the two cities is 62 miles (100 km).

How many buses travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai daily?

On average, there are 23 daily departures on this route, offered by Abu Dhabi Airport Express. The number of buses operating from Abu Dhabi to Dubai may change based on the day of the week. Simplify your trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by checking the schedules and selecting the bus that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

What time are the first and last bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

The first bus leaves at 12:00 AM and the last one leaves at 11:00 PM.

What is the cheapest way to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

You can save a lot of money on your trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by choosing to travel by bus. $13 is the starting point for the cost-effective bus ride to Dubai from Abu Dhabi.

How much does a bus ticket from Abu Dhabi to Dubai cost?

The average bus ticket price from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is $13. Over the last 30 days, the prices ranged between $13 and $13, so make sure to compare them to get the best option.

Can you do a day trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

Yes, you can do a day trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. The total time it takes to make a round-trip between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is about 3h. So you'll have enough time to visit Dubai before returning to Abu Dhabi in the evening.

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $9 to $9 for a bus ticket from Abu Dhabi to Dubai based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $9 which is on 2024-05-01.

About Bus Travel

Bus travel tips.

Make friends with the driver. They usually know a lot about your destination and may even recommend which side of the bus to sit on to get the best views on the road between Abu Dhabi and Dubai!

From miles long of beauteous natural landscapes to impressive man-crafted sights, you're bound to be in for a visual treat on your bus trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.

Buses are energy-efficient. Carrying a passenger over 100 kms by coach only takes 0.6-0.9 liters of gas. Compare that to the 2.6 liters required by high-speed train, 6.6 liters by airplane and 7.6 liters by gas-powered car, and it's clear that the bus is a more environmentally-conscious option for your bus transportation from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.

Make a music playlist for your bus ride from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, and enjoy the scenery to tunes from your own personal soundtrack.

Did you know?

Did you know there are on average 4,400 intercity bus departures every day in the US only? This number has been growing for 9 years in a row, yay!

The Superbus, created by a Dutch engineer is the world's fastest bus with 250 km/h. Too bad it's only a prototype for now.

The word 'bus' is an abbreviation of 'omnibus" which means 'for all' in Latin as buses were meant to be transportation for everybody.

Will you be returning to Abu Dhabi by bus?

Top traveled bus routes, why choose busbud, the best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud makes bus travel easy. We help travelers find a bus, plot routes, and book intercity bus tickets all over the world. With several language and currency options available, Busbud seeks to cater to international bus travelers no matter where they are in the world. Busbud prides itself on its worldwide partnerships. We make it possible for you to buy tickets with its large network of trustworthy bus partners like Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others.

Interested in more? Receive travel deals, trip reminders and other updates by email!

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Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years

This artist’s rendering provided by the government of Dubai shows plans for Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Dubai government via AP)

This satellite image from Planet Labs PBC shows Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central on Friday, April 26, 2024. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

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Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom’s 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates’ double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai’s plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai’s ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

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What did Abu Dhabi look like 60 years ago? Rare photos transport you to another era

Alan horan's images of a crucial phase in modern-day uae history have been donated to the uae's national library and archives.

Falconers in Abu Dhabi in the early 1960s. Photo: Dr Alan Horan © UAE National Library and Archives

Related: How the UAE is safeguarding its history in huge recording drive

At first glance, it is simply a camel train carrying a cargo of firewood across a water channel.

A tower guards the crossing, while the sea and sky project a timeless world of endless blue.

But this was a world about to experience torrents of change barely comprehensible to anyone living there then.

This image was taken in Abu Dhabi in the early 1960s and it shows the Al Maqta causeway that crossed the strait of water separating Abu Dhabi island from the mainland.

This was Abu Dhabi’s link to the rest of modern-day UAE and, before the causeway was built, could only be crossed safely at one point and at low tide.

The striking photograph was taken by oil engineer, Alan Horan, who had arrived in the spring of 1960.

Two years earlier Abu Dhabi had struck oil . Change was coming. But the town was experiencing an interlude before life would be transformed beyond all recognition.

But the photo itself already shows flickers of the changes that were coming. The causeway of stone blocks on which the camels walk was only built just a few years earlier to allow easier access for vehicles to pass without having to wait for low tides as the oil exploration drive gathered pace.

"My recollection is that I did not specifically set out to photograph the Maqta crossing," Mr Horan told The National . "I must have been on a journey or just exploring the island."

Abu Dhabi in the old days

Mr Horan, who was born in Egypt and earned a PhD in the UK, was appointed the chief local representative for Abu Dhabi Marine Areas Limited oil company, which had made that first discovery in 1958. He recalls a place practically untouched by development.

“Abu Dhabi was an island surrounded by creeks with extensive and beautiful coral reefs,” Mr Horan, who said he lived in a compound on the western side of Abu Dhabi , told The National .

"In those days there was nothing beyond us with Saadiyat Island in the distance."

Mr Horan, now in his 90s and living back in London, recalled how in those days with strong north-westerly winds and high tide, the sea would flood the areas immediately by the shoreline, surrounding buildings with water.

“This was particularly disruptive in the area where cargoes were discharged,” he recalls. “The ‘jetty’ was formed of barrels filled with cement. Delivering cargoes was complicated by the shallow waters in the immediate vicinity of the town which prevented cargo vessels approaching the jetty.

“For the greater part, the dwellings were of the ‘barasti’ style using palm fronds on wooden frames. Some houses were made of coral and mud. While the traditional business of pearl fishing had long passed, the craft of boat building and maintenance remained strong.”

Travelling to the mainland meant crossing the causeway he photographed and navigating a “treacherous” expanse of wet sabkha beyond that had often trapped camels in the mud.

The photographs Mr Horan shot during this time in Abu Dhabi are truly remarkable. Many were taken on a Zeiss Contessa camera that he bought in the Kuwait souq and then developed on Kodachrome slides injecting them with vibrancy and colour. They show a traditional way of life but also many pointed to the changes that were coming.

One shows young falconers gazing proudly into the camera, another shows a family of young women and girls outside their traditional barasti home, while another playful shot shows children playing with balloons outside the ADMA house.

One striking aerial photograph shows the causeway from where Mr Horan took the photograph of the camel train but beyond is an untouched world of creeks, inlets, channels, sea and sand. Another aerial shot of what is now the Corniche shows a practically untouched expanse of sand all the way down to Saadiyat Island.

Visits to Al Ain and its mountain spring water

Abu Dhabi was then ruled by Sheikh Shakhbout who Mr Horan describes as “gracious, supportive and kind”. During the summer, when Sheikh Shakhbout spent time in the drier climate of Al Ain away from the Abu Dhabi humid summer, Mr Horan would often visit him there as part of his duties with ADMA. Today, the journey is around 90 minutes by car on a new motorway, but then it involved an overnight camp amid rolling sand dunes.

“These night stops were exceptional occasions as there was complete silence and no light pollution. Unique,” said Mr Horan.

“In the morning, we proceeded to Al Ain where I met with Sheikh Shakhbout. Al Ain offered delights of clear water in the falajes – even a cool pool belonging to a local dignitary.

“Al Ain had extensive walled palm groves, fed by the falaj water. Water was always precious and the falaj water was of high quality and drinkable at the point of discharge from the mountains,” said Mr Horan.

“In Abu Dhabi, only very brackish water was available from local wells. So, water was imported from Dubai, in steel tanks aboard dhows. Even this water was not very potable, merely an improvement on the brackish water available locally.”

Dubai Creek and a trip to Liwa

Mr Horan also travelled across the country from Dubai to the Liwa oasis. An image taken in Dubai Creek shows abras, an intriguing selection of adverts for goods such as 7-up and various cigarette manufacturers, along with an impressive range of cars including Land Rovers . The Land Rover was a popular choice, particularly those trips to Liwa.

Mr Horan took several striking images of Liwa that showing its oases and vast desert. One in particular, of Mr Horan’s wife, Jean, walking through a date palm grove conveys the sheer vastness of the desert

“Liwa Oasis was accessible only by Land Rover and expert driving over dunes,” he said.

“Liwa was remarkable for its isolation from the rest of … Abu Dhabi. The residents were very hospitable.”

Crucial phase in country's history

Mr Horan left Abu Dhabi in 1962, the same year the first shipments of oil left for international markets. He returned for a second time in the 1970s as general manager of ADMA-OPCO before leaving in the early 1980s.

Mr Horan had an important role in the early development of Abu Dhabi’s oil industry. He returned as a guest for the 25th anniversary of the first export of oil and he was awarded an OBE for services to British commercial interests in Abu Dhabi.

Now he has donated his remarkable collection of more than 200 photographs from his time here to the UAE’s National Library and Archives.

They have been restored carefully, are safeguarded for future generations and can be viewed online on the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive . They are a truly special visual record of a crucial phase in Abu Dhabi’s history.

"I am honoured that my slides showing some aspects of those early days are now in the National Library and Archives," said Mr Horan.

"The periods spent in Abu Dhabi ... were essential parts of my career. I have very fond memories of my time serving Abu Dhabi."

Dubai faces massive clean up after deluge swamps glitzy desert city

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Plans revealed for Dubai to move its busy international airport to $35 billion new space

Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international travel , will move within the next ten years, it has been announced.

The operations will move to the city-state's second airfield, in its southern desert reaches, in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum 's announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom's 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE, which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula.

The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak, nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates' double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai's plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai's ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai's 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

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Passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi Airports clear 6.9 million in Q1-2024

As business and leisure travel surge, Abu Dhabi Airports put in 35% traffic gains

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Airports recorded a substantial 35.6 per cent growth in passenger numbers over the first three months of 2024. The entity, which operates five airports within the emirate, said more than 6.9 million passengers were handled during the period compared to 5.1 million same time last year.

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“Buoyed by strong global demand for passenger and commercial services, the first quarter witnessed a positive upswing in flight movements, with 61,737 movements recorded,” said a statement.

Zayed International Airport alone handled over 6.8 million passengers. The airport's new terminal, which opened in February, expanded its airline database with the return of Turkmenistan Airlines and the launch of Hainan Airlines operating to Haikou, China. This brought the total number of regular scheduled operators to 29 airlines by end of Q1-24.

Last week British Airways relaunched its operations from Zayed International after a hiatus of four years. The airline will operate daily flights from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow. "This further cements its position as a leading hub, evidenced by significant jumps of 26.6 per cent in movements and 36 per cent in passenger traffic," the statement added.

Top destinations

London maintained its status as the top destination city with nearly 290,000 passengers. The other leading destinations included Mumbai, Kochi, Delhi, and Doha.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports said: "Abu Dhabi Airports remains committed to investing in its facilities and services to enhance the passenger experience and wider value proposition to satisfy our existing airline partners and our common customers as well as attract new ones." 

Zayed International Airport’s Top 5 destinations by passenger numbers (Q1 2024)

• London 289,674
• Mumbai 240,681
• Kochi 206,139
• Delhi 203,395
• Doha 184,317

Cargo operations

Cargo traffic also registered significant expansion in Q1-2024, with 162,000 tonnes of air freight handled across all airports. This marks an increase of 25.6 per cent.

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Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom’s 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates’ double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai’s plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai’s ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.