Every day, hundreds of people travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. If you’re one of them, you may be looking for an affordable and easy way to travel between the two Emirates. Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus is the perfect option.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai are two of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Abu Dhabi is the capital city of UAE, whereas Dubai is the capital of the emirate of Dubai. The RTA operates three intercity bus services between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. E100, E101, and E102.
This guide will provide comprehensive information about bus service from Abu Dhabi to Dubai routes, timings, fares, and alternatives.
Overview of Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus
Many tourists and business travelers choose to journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. This route takes travelers through some of the most beautiful desert landscapes in the United Arab Emirates. They can enjoy views of dunes, mountains, and camels along the way.
Different bus services operate between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Here is an overview:
| Bus number | Bus time | Bus routes | Distance | Bus price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E100 | Sunday to Wednesday (12:00 PM – 11:40 PM) Thursday (12:25 PM – 11:40 PM) Friday (5:00 AM – 11:54 PM) Saturday (12:14 PM – 11:30 PM) | Abu Dhabi central bus station – Al Ghubaiba bus station | 139 KM | AED 25 |
| E101 | Everyday (5:00 AM -10:00 PM) | Abu Dhabi central bus station – Ibn Battuta bus station | 116 KM | AED 25 |
| E102 | Everyday (6:20 AM – 11:40 PM) | Mussafah Shabiya – Ibn Battuta bus station | 112 KM | AED 25 |
How to reach Dubai from Abu Dhabi?
The easiest way to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is by using the public bus service that runs daily between the two cities. The RTA, or Roads and Transport Authority, operates Dubai’s public bus network. The buses are air-conditioned and equipped with Facilities for people with Special Needs, E-Card Machines, NOL top-up machines at every main bus stop, and more. [1] RTA, “Facilities, https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/public-transport/dubaibus?lang=en#:~:text=Our%20buses-,Facilities,-Include%20service%20facilities”
A distance of 139 kilometers only separates Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The journey takes approximately 2 hours or more depending on traffic, making it a convenient option for travelers who want to explore both cities during their stay in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus routes
For residents of Abu Dhabi, there are now multiple options for taking a bus to Dubai. The E101 and E100 buses run seven days a week from the Central Bus Station in Abu Dhabi, with the last stop being the Ibn Battuta bus stop or Al Ghubaiba bus station, respectively.
Previously, residents of Mussafah had to travel to Central Abu Dhabi to make this journey, but now they can catch the E102 bus from the Musaafah Shabiya bus station. This new route offers a convenient and direct option for those living in Mussafah and helps to connect the two major cities more efficiently.
Three intercity bus routes operate between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. They are:
E100
The E100 bus departs from the Abu Dhabi Central Bus station and ends its journey at Al Ghubaiba bus station. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, and passengers can expect to see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks along the way.
The E100 bus has 4 stops from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. They are listed below:
- Abu Dhabi, Samha 2
- Max Metro Bus Stop Landside
- Department of Ports & Customs 2
- Al Ghubaiba Bus station
E101
The E101 bus directly connects Abu Dhabi central bus station and the Ibn Battuta bus station. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes, depending on traffic. Ibn Battuta bus station is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, near Ibn Battuta mall and The Garden.
The E101 Bus has 2 stops from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. They are:
- Abu Dhabi, Samha 2
- Ibn Battuta bus station 8
E102
The E102 bus departs from Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station and ends at Ibn Battuta bus station. The journey takes 1 hr 56 minutes. Shabiya Bus station is situated nearby to Amna Ahmad, Abu Dhabi.
The E102 Bus has 2 stops from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. They are:
- Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal 1 and 3
- Ibn Battuta bus station 10
Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus fare
For those who wish to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai on a budget, RTA buses are the best option. Taking the bus between Abu Dhabi and Dubai costs only AED 25, making it the most affordable way to travel. The ticket price is the same for all bus services: E100, E101, and E102. So, you can choose any of them to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.
Method for paying the bus fare
There are two methods to pay for the bus service from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. They are:
NOL card
The bus fare can be paid using a Nol card. Nol cards are contactless smart cards used by Dubai’s public transportation system for fare payment. The Nol card is a convenient way to travel around Dubai, whether by metro, bus, tram, or water bus.
Cash is no longer accepted on public transport in Dubai, so having a Nol card is essential if you want to use the city’s travel network.
Virtual NOL card
The virtual Nol card will be available for those who prefer to use it as an alternative to the traditional Nol card. The customer can use the virtual Nol card for all Nol tickets, such as metro, bus, water bus, and parking.
In addition, the virtual Nol card will be linked to your account and can be used to pay for fares, see the balance, and top up your card easily. The card is available through Nol Pay on Huawei phones and can only be managed through the wallet of Huwaei watch 3 and 3 pros.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus timings
The Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus service is a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the two cities. The service is particularly popular with tourists, providing an affordable and hassle-free way to explore the United Arab Emirates.
Abu Dhabi bus timings are always punctual, with buses running every 30 minutes. You will never have to wait an extended period for the next bus. Buses are always available when you need them and run regularly throughout the day.
The timings for the intercity bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai are listed below:
- E100
The timing of E100 bus routes is different for days in a week. They are listed below:[2]RTA, “Download Timetables, https://www.rta.ae/wps/PA_JourneyPlanner/DownloadTimetableServlet?lineId=dub:10100:%20:H:y08&lineName=bus%20E100″
| Days | First Bus | Last Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 4:40 AM | 1:00 AM |
| Friday | 4:40 AM | 1:00 AM |
| Saturday & Sunday | 4:47 AM | 1:00 AM |
- E101
The timing for the E101 bus service is listed below: [3]RTA, “Download Timetables, https://www.rta.ae/wps/PA_JourneyPlanner/DownloadTimetableServlet?lineId=dub:10101:%20:H:y08&lineName=bus%20E101″
| Days | First Bus | Last Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Friday | 4:45 AM | 1:15 PM |
| Saturday & Sunday | 7:40 AM | 6:40 AM |
- E102
The timing for the E102 bus service is listed below: [4]RTA, “Download Timetables, https://www.rta.ae/wps/PA_JourneyPlanner/DownloadTimetableServlet?lineId=dub:10102:%20:H:y08&lineName=bus%20E102″
| Days | First Bus | Last Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday to Saturday | 6:20 AM | 11:40 PM |
Is it worth traveling to Dubai from Abu Dhabi by bus?
It is worth considering the options available when traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Taking the bus is often the best for those on a budget as it is relatively cheap. However, it can be quite slow, and it takes two hours to reach Dubai from Abu Dhabi.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a more comfortable or faster journey, you should look at other options, such as flying or taking a taxi. Taxis are usually more expensive than the bus but can be worth it for those in a hurry. Flights are often the quickest way to travel, but they can be expensive.
Ultimately, it depends on your budget, and you must choose the best option. If you have the time and are on a budget, traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus can be worth it.
Alternative transportation option from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
There are a few different ways to go when traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. The most popular option is to drive, but this can be a bit of a hassle during peak traffic times. However, a few alternative ways to travel between these two cities are worth considering.
| Hours | Sunday to Saturday: 9:30 AM–9:30 PM |
| Contact | +34910780507 |
| Website | Civitatis |
| Services | Hot air balloon, Desert safari, Doha Camel safari, Transfers in Dubai, Free walking tour, Helicopter tour and more |
For travelers looking to explore some of the world’s top tourist destinations, Civitatis is an excellent option. With their range of activities, guided tours, and excursions offered in Spanish, and visitors can easily find an event that fits their needs and budget. They also have friendly and knowledgeable staff who can help you out.
Likewise, a private transfer is one of the most convenient options for transportation from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. This eliminates the hassle of waiting for the public bus and ensures prompt service every time. As a bonus, those with luggage won’t need to worry about carrying it all day.
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Contact | +1 (888) 651-9785 |
| Website | Viator |
| Services | Desert safari, Private transfer, worldwide destination, VIP tours, and more |
Viator offers a wide range of tours to destinations across the globe. They provide flexible payment and cancellation options that suit any budget or plan, making them an ideal choice for travelers.
Booking a guided tour package can be an excellent option for those looking for an alternative for traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, this is a convenient option that eliminates the hassle of planning transportation.
| Location | Dubai Mall (outside main entrance), Financial Center Rd, Dubai |
| Map | Get direction |
| Hours | 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day |
| Contact | +97143407709 |
| Website | Big Bus Tour |
| Services | City Tour, Desert sunset tour, Beach Tour, Open top bus, private hires and more. |
Take a Big Bus tour around Dubai and see everything the city offers. You’re sure to have an unforgettable experience, whether it’s sightseeing or admiring beautiful landmarks.
Traveling by Big Bus involves purchasing tickets. Tourists can choose between day and night tours and combo tickets for access to some of Dubai’s most popular attractions. And the prices of the tickets will depend on which package you pick.
In addition, there are two different routes that you can take on the Dubai bus tour: the red route and the blue route. The red path allows visitors to discover some of Dubai’s most famous attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa and numerous museums. The blue route will take you to beaches such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah beach, and other popular beaches.
Related Info
- If you are planning to travel to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, then check out Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus.
- Similarly, check out Union bus station if you are around Deira.
- Check out the Sabkha bus station if you are in Al Sabkha, Deira.
- Or, you can check out Dubai RTA bus for more information about bus services in Dubai.
FAQs
Is a bus available from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
Yes, there is a direct bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. The RTA buses E100, E101, and E102 are actively operated between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
How much does it cost the bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
A bus service from Abu Dhabi to Dubai costs only AED 25. You can use your nol card to take any public transportation in Dubai.
How can I go to Dubai from Abu Dhabi?
You can reach Dubai from Abu Dhabi by using an RTA bus, Taxi, or driving yourself. The RTA bus is the cheapest option, but it takes the longest. A taxi is more expensive, but it’s faster.
Is the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus available today?
Yes, the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus is available today. The Dubai Bus runs from 04:00 to 01:00 the next day. [5]RTA, “Bus station, https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/public-transport/timetable#BusStations:~:text=Dubai%20Tram-,Bus%20Stations,-Dubai%20Bus%20is”
Is a taxi available from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
Yes, Taxis are available from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Although taxis are more expensive than buses, they will get you to your destination much faster. A one-way trip by taxi will cost you anywhere from $60-$75.
Final thoughts
The Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus is a great way to travel between the two cities. With multiple departures of different bus routes throughout the day, you can easily find a bus that fits your schedule. The fares are also very reasonable, making this an affordable option for travelers on a budget.
Regardless of how you travel, be sure to plan ahead to arrive at your destination on time. Hope this Dbd guide has helped you find bus service from Abu Dhabi to Dubai routes and timings.
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About the author
Imran Hassan
Imran Hassan is an experienced Travel Specialist for UAE and the Middle East. He is based in Dubai and specializes in creating unique itineraries to ensure his customers have the best possible experience during their stay. From selecting the right hotel to recommending must-see attractions, Imran's expertise ensures that all vacations are unforgettable.
Adi Abbas is a travel enthusiast based in Dubai who has explored more than 15 countries in the Middle East and South Asia. He loves discovering different cultures, trying local food, and seeking out exciting things to do. His passion for travel has taken him to many places, where he's made unforgettable memories that will stay with him forever. Adi loves documenting his trips through photography and writing about his experiences.