Looking to travel between the UAE’s two largest cities in comfort and convenience? Taking a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi offers a stress-free alternative to driving yourself. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or resident needing transportation, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Dubai to Abu Dhabi taxi services—from costs and booking to tips and alternatives.
Quick Facts: Dubai to Abu Dhabi Taxi at a Glance
Before we dive into details, here’s what you need to know immediately:
- Distance: Approximately 140-160 km (depending on pickup/drop-off points)
- Travel Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Cost Range: 250-400 AED one way
- Taxi Types: Regular taxis, luxury taxis, private transfers
- Booking: Street hail, taxi stands, or app booking
- Best For: Convenience, comfort, door-to-door service
Taxi Options: Which One Should You Choose?
1. Dubai Government Taxis (Regular Taxis)
Identification: Beige/creamy color with colored roof (different colors for different companies)
Metered: Yes, all government taxis use meters
Starting Fare: 5-12 AED (depending on time and location)
Per Kilometer Rate: 1.96 AED/km
Per Minute Waiting: 0.50 AED/minute
Airport Surcharge: 25 AED if picked up from Dubai airports
Abu Dhabi Surcharge: 20 AED when entering Abu Dhabi emirate
Estimated Dubai to Abu Dhabi Cost:
- From Dubai City: 250-350 AED
- From Dubai Airport: 280-380 AED
- From Dubai Marina/JBR: 270-370 AED
How to Get One:
- Hail on street (if roof light is on)
- Taxi stands at malls, hotels, attractions
- Call dispatch centers (though they prefer you use apps now)
2. Abu Dhabi Taxis (Silver Cabs)
Identification: Silver color with yellow/white roof
Can operate in Dubai: Yes, but can only pick up passengers in Abu Dhabi
Useful for: Return journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
Rates: Similar to Dubai taxis
Estimated Abu Dhabi to Dubai Cost: 250-350 AED
3. Luxury Taxis (Lexus, Mercedes)
Identification: Usually black or dark colors, luxury brands
Companies: Dubai Taxi Corporation Luxury, various private companies
Starting Fare: 12-25 AED
Per Kilometer Rate: 2.50-3.00 AED/km
Estimated Cost: 400-600 AED
Best For: Business travel, special occasions, comfort seekers
4. Private Hire/Chauffeur Services
Companies: Careem, Uber, local chauffeur companies
Vehicle Types: Economy, business, luxury, SUV
Booking: App-based only
Pricing: Fixed or estimated upfront
Estimated Cost: 300-800 AED depending on vehicle
Advantage: Fixed price, professional drivers, vehicle choice
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Factors Affecting Taxi Fare:
- Starting Point in Dubai:
- Dubai Airport: +25 AED surcharge
- Jebel Ali/Investment Park: Lower base fare
- Downtown/Burj Khalifa: Higher due to traffic
- Destination in Abu Dhabi:
- City Center/Corniche: Standard fare
- Yas Island: +20-30 AED
- Saadiyat Island: +30-40 AED
- Khalifa City/Mohammed Bin Zayed City: +10-20 AED
- Time of Day:
- Daytime (6 AM-10 PM): Standard rates
- Night (10 PM-6 AM): +20% surcharge
- Peak hours: No surcharge but more waiting time charges
- Traffic Conditions:
- Heavy traffic: More waiting charges
- Smooth traffic: Lower overall fare
- Friday afternoons: Variable, can be heavy
Sample Fare Estimates:
| Starting Point | Destination | Estimated Fare (AED) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Airport | Abu Dhabi Corniche | 280-380 | 1.5-2.5 hrs |
| Dubai Marina | Yas Island | 300-400 | 1.75-2.75 hrs |
| Burj Khalifa | Abu Dhabi Mall | 260-360 | 1.5-2.5 hrs |
| Jebel Ali | Khalifa City | 240-340 | 1.25-2.25 hrs |
| Sharjah Border | Abu Dhabi Airport | 350-450 | 2-3 hrs |
Booking Your Taxi: Methods Compared
1. Street Hailing
Availability: Good in most areas except highways
How to: Look for taxi with roof light on, wave hand
Best Areas: Hotel areas, shopping malls, tourist attractions
Not Recommended: During rush hours, in remote areas
2. Taxi Stands
Where to Find:
- All Dubai Metro stations
- Shopping malls (designated areas)
- Hotels (usually have queue)
- Tourist attractions
Advantage: Guaranteed taxi, often air-conditioned waiting
Tip: Look for the taxi stand sign (blue with white taxi symbol)
3. Phone Booking
Numbers:
- Dubai Taxi Corporation: 04 208 0808
- Cars Taxi: 04 269 3344
- Metro Taxi: 04 267 3222
Disadvantage: May take longer, not all drivers speak English well
Current Trend: Most companies encourage app booking instead
4. App-Based Booking (Recommended)
Popular Apps in Dubai:
- Careem (Most Popular for Intercity)
- Options: Go, Business, Go+, Lux
- Fixed prices shown upfront
- Can book in advance
- Professional drivers
- Estimated Dubai-Abu Dhabi: 300-500 AED
- Uber
- Options: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Black
- Similar to Careem
- Sometimes slightly more expensive
- Estimated Dubai-Abu Dhabi: 320-550 AED
- Dubai Taxi App (Official Government App)
- Direct booking of government taxis
- Metered fare (not fixed)
- Real-time tracking
- Estimated Dubai-Abu Dhabi: 250-350 AED
- Abu Dhabi Taxi App
- For return journey booking
- Useful when in Abu Dhabi
- Similar features to Dubai app
Why Apps are Best:
- Fixed price (except government taxi app)
- Driver information upfront
- Payment through app (cashless)
- Route tracking
- Customer support
- Advance booking available
Journey Experience: What to Expect
Pickup Process:
- Government Taxi: Meter starts immediately (5-12 AED)
- App-Based: Driver confirms, you see vehicle details
- At Airport: Follow signs to taxi rank, queue system
During the Journey:
- Air conditioning always on
- Most drivers speak basic English
- Radio usually playing (can ask to change/turn off)
- Conversation level varies (some talkative, some quiet)
- You can request specific temperature or music
Border Crossing:
- No stops required (same country)
- Driver may point out “Welcome to Abu Dhabi” sign
- Nothing changes except possibly taxi jurisdiction
- No additional documents needed
Payment Options:
- Cash (AED): Most common, exact change appreciated
- Credit/Debit Card: Most taxis have machines
- Nol Card: Some Dubai taxis accept
- App Payment: If booked via app
- Careem/Uber Cash: Digital wallet option
Receipt:
- Always ask for receipt
- Government taxis provide printed receipt
- App bookings: receipt emailed automatically
- Keep for expense claims or records
Tolls: Who Pays?
Salik Tolls (Dubai):
- Who pays: Passenger (added to fare)
- Cost: 4 AED per gate (usually 2 gates = 8 AED)
- When: Anytime passing through toll gates
Darb Tolls (Abu Dhabi):
- Who pays: Passenger
- Cost: 4 AED per gate (peak hours only)
- Peak hours: 7-9 AM & 5-7 PM, Sat-Thu
- No charge: Fridays, off-peak hours
Total Toll Estimate:
- Minimum (off-peak): 8 AED
- Typical (with one peak gate): 12 AED
- Maximum (both peaks): 16 AED
Important: Tolls are automatically detected via taxi’s tag and added to your fare.
Tips for a Better Taxi Experience
1. Communication Tips
- Have destination address written in Arabic (helps driver)
- Use landmarks: “Near Abu Dhabi Mall” or “next to Emirates Palace”
- Confirm price estimate before starting (if not app booking)
- Ask for receipt at beginning if needed for business
2. Safety Considerations
- Note taxi number (displayed inside)
- Share trip details with someone (apps do this automatically)
- Sit in back seat (standard practice)
- Wear seatbelt (mandatory, driver may remind you)
- Trust your instincts (if uncomfortable, ask to stop)
3. Comfort Tips
- Specify temperature preference
- Ask about music volume
- Request quieter route if desired
- Take bathroom break before long journey
- Carry water (though most taxis have AC)
4. For Business Travel
- Get printed receipt (required by most companies)
- Note purpose on receipt if possible
- Keep records for expense claims
- Consider corporate accounts with taxi companies
Peak Times & Best Booking Strategies
When to Avoid:
- Friday mornings: Prayer time changes, variable traffic
- Sunday evenings: Return traffic to Abu Dhabi
- Thursday afternoons: Weekend travelers
- Eid holidays: Extremely busy, prices may surge
- Rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM): More waiting charges
Best Times to Travel:
- Weekday mid-morning (10 AM-2 PM): Smooth traffic
- Weekday late evening (8 PM onwards): Light traffic
- Saturday mornings: Generally quiet
- Early mornings (5-6 AM): Fast but may have night surcharge
Booking in Advance:
Recommended for:
- Early morning flights
- Special occasions
- Group travel
- Peak holiday periods
- Business meetings
How far in advance: 2-24 hours (apps allow scheduling)
Luggage Considerations
What’s Allowed:
- Standard luggage in trunk (2-3 suitcases typically)
- Hand luggage in cabin
- Shopping bags (reasonable amount)
Extra Charges:
- Officially: No extra charge for luggage
- Unofficially: Very bulky items might be declined
- Best practice: Mention luggage when booking if large items
Special Items:
- Sports equipment: May require larger vehicle
- Musical instruments: Consider luxury taxi for space
- Fragile items: Inform driver, request careful handling
- Pets: Generally not allowed (service animals exception)
Traveling with Children
Child Seats:
- Not provided by taxis
- Not required by law in taxis (unlike private cars)
- Recommendation: Bring your own if concerned
- Alternative: Book family-friendly service via app
Family Travel Tips:
- Book larger vehicle if multiple children
- Carry entertainment for kids (2+ hour journey)
- Plan bathroom breaks
- Pack snacks and drinks
- Consider timing around nap schedules
Alternative Options to Consider
When Taxi Might Not Be Best:
| Alternative | Cost | Time | Better When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intercity Bus | 25 AED | 2-3 hrs | Solo budget travel |
| Rental Car | 150-300 AED + fuel | 1.5-2.5 hrs | Need car at destination |
| Private Driver | 500-800 AED | 1.5-2.5 hrs | Business, multiple stops |
| Helicopter | 3,000+ AED | 45 min | Ultimate luxury/emergency |
Bus vs Taxi Comparison:
Bus (E100/E101):
- Cost: 25 AED
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Comfort: Basic
- Luggage: Limited
- Flexibility: Fixed schedule
Taxi:
- Cost: 250-400 AED
- Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
- Comfort: Good
- Luggage: Reasonable
- Flexibility: On-demand
Special Scenarios
1. Airport Transfers
From Dubai Airports to Abu Dhabi:
- DXB (Terminals 1,2,3): 280-380 AED
- Al Maktoum (DWC): 350-450 AED
- Tip: Book in advance for flight arrivals
- Consider: Flight delays (most drivers wait 1-2 hours free)
From Abu Dhabi to Dubai Airports:
- Similar prices
- Consider traffic to airport
- Allow extra time for international flights
2. Business Meetings
- Book luxury taxi for impression
- Ensure receipt for expense claim
- Consider scheduling with buffer time
- Have meeting address in Arabic ready
3. Tourist Day Trips
- Consider round trip vs two one-ways
- Ask driver about return pickup
- Note driver’s number for return journey
- Agree on waiting charges if driver waits
4. Medical Appointments
- Book with time buffer
- Consider comfort level (luxury taxi)
- Have clinic/hospital details ready
- Ask for assistance if needed
Cost-Saving Tips
1. Share the Ride
- Split cost with fellow travelers
- Apps offer ride-sharing options
- Hotel shuttles sometimes available
2. Choose Optimal Timing
- Avoid peak hour tolls in Abu Dhabi
- Travel mid-week if possible
- Consider early morning/late evening
3. Use Correct Service
- Regular taxi vs luxury (half the price)
- Government taxi vs private hire
- Consider bus for solo travel
4. Negotiate Return Trip
- Some drivers offer discount for round trip
- Agree on waiting charges upfront
- Consider booking same driver for return
Common Issues & Solutions
1. Driver Doesn’t Know Location
- Solution: Use Google Maps on your phone
- Prevention: Have address in Arabic
- Alternative: Use app booking (driver has GPS)
2. Meter “Issues”
- Solution: Note taxi number, report later
- Prevention: Use app booking with fixed price
- Standard: Meter should start at 5-12 AED
3. Refusal to Go to Abu Dhabi
- Rare but happens: Some drivers prefer city trips
- Solution: Book via app (cannot refuse)
- Alternative: Go to taxi stand at airport/mall
4. Traffic Delays
- Unavoidable sometimes
- Solution: Check traffic apps before booking
- Cost impact: More waiting charges
5. Payment Issues
- Card machine not working: Have cash backup
- Driver no change: Use smaller notes if possible
- Dispute: Contact company with receipt details
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to take a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
A: Extremely safe. UAE has one of the world’s safest taxi systems. All drivers are licensed, vehicles regularly inspected, and journeys tracked.
Q: Can I book a taxi for return journey?
A: Yes, either book two one-ways or arrange with driver for return (agree price in advance).
Q: Do taxis have Wi-Fi?
A: Most do not. Some luxury taxis might. Assume no Wi-Fi and prepare accordingly.
Q: Can I ask the driver to stop for breaks?
A: Yes, but meter continues running (waiting charges apply). Agree on break duration.
Q: What if I leave something in the taxi?
A: Contact the taxi company immediately with receipt details. Most items are returned.
Q: Are taxis available 24/7?
A: Yes, but fewer available very late night. App booking recommended for odd hours.
Q: Can I request a female driver?
A: Possible through app booking (special request) but not guaranteed. Limited availability.
Q: Is tipping expected?
A: Not expected but appreciated. 5-10 AED is common for good service.
Technology & Apps Update 2025
Current Trends:
- Cashless payments becoming standard
- Advanced booking via apps preferred
- Real-time tracking by family/colleagues
- Integrated payments with other services
- Green taxis (hybrid/electric) increasing
Recommended Apps:
- Careem: Best for intercity, reliable
- Dubai Taxi App: Official, metered fares
- Google Maps: For tracking and route checking
- WhatsApp: For sharing journey details
Environmental Considerations
Green Taxi Options:
- Hybrid taxis: Increasing in Dubai fleet
- Electric taxis: Trial phase, limited availability
- Regular taxis: Meet Euro 4 standards
Carbon Footprint:
- Approximate emissions: 20-30 kg CO2 one way
- Comparison: Similar to driving yourself
- Offset option: Some apps offer carbon offset
Conclusion: Is Taxi the Right Choice for You?
Taking a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi offers undeniable benefits:
When taxi is best:
- You value convenience over cost
- Traveling with luggage or group
- Business travel (expense account)
- Don’t want driving stress
- Need door-to-door service
- First-time visitor to UAE
When to consider alternatives:
- Solo traveler on tight budget (take bus)
- Need car at destination (rental)
- Very cost-sensitive
- Enjoy driving
- Have plenty of time
Final recommendations:
- Use app booking (Careem or Uber) for fixed prices and reliability
- Travel off-peak to save time and some cost
- Have exact address ready in Arabic if possible
- Keep receipt for any issues or expense claims
- Enjoy the ride – UAE’s highways are impressive
The Dubai to Abu Dhabi taxi journey is a comfortable, safe, and efficient way to travel between these two incredible cities. While not the cheapest option, the convenience, door-to-door service, and professional drivers make it worthwhile for many travelers.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the UAE’s highlights, a business professional with meetings in both cities, or a resident visiting friends and family, taxi travel offers a stress-free alternative to navigating yourself.
