The question “how far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?” is one of the first things every visitor to the UAE asks. Whether you’re planning a day trip to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or figuring out your airport transfer, knowing the real-world distance and travel time is crucial. The straightforward geographic answer is about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from downtown Dubai to downtown Abu Dhabi. But in practice, your journey depends entirely on how you travel, when you leave, and where you start and end. Let’s break it down so you can plan your inter-emirate adventure perfectly.
The Straight Facts: Distance & Geography
Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the two largest emirates in the UAE, situated along the Persian Gulf coast. The capital city, Abu Dhabi, lies southwest of Dubai.
- City Center to City Center: The distance between Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa) and Central Abu Dhabi (Corniche) is approximately 150 km (93 mi).
- Airport to Airport: From Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), the distance is roughly 160 km (99 mi).
- Key Landmark Reference: The iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is about 130 km (81 mi) from Downtown Dubai.
Travel Time: It’s All About the Route and Traffic
This is where the “how far” question gets interesting. The time it takes can double based on your choices.
By Car or Taxi (The Fastest Option)
Driving is the most flexible way to travel between the two cities. You’ll take the E11 highway, also known as Sheikh Zayed Road, which is a modern, multi-lane motorway.
- Typical Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Factors That Affect Time:
- Time of Day: Avoid weekday morning rush hours (7-9 AM) from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and evening rush hours (5-7 PM) in the opposite direction. Friday afternoons can also be busy.
- Speed Limits: The highway speed limit is typically 140 km/h, with strict radar enforcement. Maintaining a good pace is easy outside of congestion.
- Your Final Destination: Adding time to navigate within each city’s internal traffic.
By Bus (The Most Economical Option)
The RTA (Dubai) and Darb (Abu Dhabi) public bus service, specifically the E100 and E101 routes, is an excellent budget choice.
- Departure Points: E100 from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (Bur Dubai), E101 from Ibn Battuta Metro Station.
- Arrival Point: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route.
- Cost: Only AED 25 (about $6.80 USD) one-way. Buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with Wi-Fi.
By Private Transfer or Airport Taxi
This is a door-to-door service ideal for groups or those with lots of luggage.
- Travel Time: Similar to a private car, 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Cost: Significantly higher. A standard taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi can cost AED 250 – AED 350+ (approx. $70-$95 USD). Private transfers booked online may offer fixed rates.
What You Need to Know About the Drive: Tolls & Tips
If you’re driving, be aware of the Salik (toll) system.
- Toll Gates: There are two main toll gates on the E11 highway between the cities: one near Al Maha and another near Ghantoot. You will pass through them in both directions.
- Cost: Each pass costs AED 4 (about $1.10). If you’re driving a rental car, the tolls are usually automatically charged to the registered account, and the rental company will bill you later, often with a small administrative fee.
- Pro Driving Tip: Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates. For a scenic alternative, the E311 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road) runs parallel to the E11 and can be less congested, though sometimes slightly longer.
Can You Travel by Train or Plane?
- Train: As of 2024, there is no direct passenger train connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Etihad Rail network is under development but not yet operational for intercity passenger travel.
- Plane: While both cities have major international airports, flying is not a practical option for this short distance due to check-in times, security, and the short flight duration. The drive is almost always faster door-to-door.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is it worth doing a day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Absolutely. A day trip is very feasible. Start early (by 8 AM), visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi or the Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace, and you can be back in Dubai by evening.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
The public bus (E100 or E101) at AED 25 is by far the cheapest method. It’s reliable and comfortable.
Q3: Do I need a different visa to visit Abu Dhabi if I’m staying in Dubai?
No. The UAE issues federal visas. If you have a visa for Dubai (e.g., a tourist visa on arrival), it is valid for travel to Abu Dhabi and all other emirates.
Q4: Are there Uber or Careem options between the cities?
Yes, both Uber and Careem offer intercity trips. The price is similar to or slightly higher than a standard taxi but offers the convenience of app-based booking and payment. Expect fares in the AED 300+ range.
Q5: Where is the border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
There is no formal “border checkpoint” for passengers. You’ll know you’ve entered Abu Dhabi emirate by the change in streetlight design (they become white and grey) and the welcome signs along the E11 highway.
Conclusion: A Short Journey Between Giants
So, how far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai? In essence, it’s a remarkably accessible 90-minute to two-hour journey separating two world-class cities with distinct personalities. With a bit of planning—choosing the right time to travel and the best mode of transport for your budget—hopping between the futuristic energy of Dubai and the cultural grandeur of Abu Dhabi is one of the easiest and most rewarding experiences in the UAE. Pack your sunglasses, hit the road, and enjoy the desert vistas along the way
