Travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by Bus?

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are pretty far apart, more than 100 kilometers. But many people still travel between them a lot. Some folks prefer taking buses because they’re both convenient and affordable.

Luckily, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a really good public transportation system. It makes going from Abu Dhabi to Dubai or from Dubai to Abu Dhabi much simpler. In this guide, we’ll check out how you can use the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus service. We’ll also give you info about when the buses run and the routes they take.

Why are Abu Dhabi to Dubai buses so popular?

These buses offer several advantages to travelers. They are not only budget-friendly but also help you avoid the heavy traffic. They’re a good choice for daily commuting, which also benefits the environment. Plus, they connect to all the important stops in both emirates effectively.

What safety and convenience measures do the buses follow?

People often think bus travel is uncomfortable and unpleasant. However, when it comes to Abu Dhabi to Dubai intercity buses, travelers are happy because comfort and safety are their priorities. Boarding is well-organized, making it safe for solo travelers.

These buses provide professional service, including information screens, full air conditioning, and designated seats for women and children. Moreover, they offer various amenities like prayer rooms, waiting areas, vending machines, and plenty of dining options at every bus station.

Which buses operate from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

The Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus service covers all parts of both emirates, making it highly accessible to travelers. It not only connects the two emirates but also reaches every significant area in between. This makes it a convenient choice for public transportation, taking you to malls, popular hotels, and various locations with good connectivity. On average, it takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes for a single Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus to reach all stops. There are three different buses designated for this route, each with its specific stops:

Bus E101

This is the most commonly used intercity bus for travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It operates from the Central Bus Station in Abu Dhabi to Ibn Battuta in Dubai. With the introduction of E102, the load has been divided between the two buses, providing greater comfort and convenience for travelers. E101 operates six days a week, from Sunday to Friday. The travel time is 1.5 hours. There is no service on Saturdays due to lower office traffic. On weekdays, it runs from 05:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and on weekends, it starts at 11:15 PM and ends at the same time.

Bus E100

Bus E100 is the first and oldest bus on this route, but the government maintains its high service quality. It remains competitive with the other two buses in operation. It runs from the Central Bus Station in Abu Dhabi to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai withing 2 hours. The route connects both New Dubai and Old Dubai. The E101 Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus schedule for 2023 varies for each day.

Bus E102

This intercity bus recently started operating due to the increasing number of daily travelers. It runs from Ibn Battuta in Dubai to Mussafah in Abu Dhabi. Residents of Mussafah’s suburban areas find this bus highly convenient, as it eliminates the need to travel to Abu Dhabi’s central bus station to catch another bus to Dubai. The travel time is 1.5 hours.  This major inconvenience has been effectively resolved by the Abu Dhabi government. The E102 Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus schedule for 2023 is from 6:20 AM until 11:40 PM.

Bus Service Operating Timing

Here are the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus timing:

E100 Bus Timing

• Monday to Thursday: First bus at 4:40 AM, last bus at 1:00 AM.
• Friday: First bus at 4:40 AM, last bus at 1:00 AM.
• Saturday & Sunday: First bus at 4:47 AM, last bus at 1:00 AM.

E101 Bus Timing

• Monday to Friday: First bus at 4:45 AM, last bus at 1:15 PM.
• Saturday & Sunday: First bus at 7:40 AM, last bus at 6:40 AM.

E102 Bus Timing

• Sunday to Saturday: First bus at 6:20 AM, last bus at 11:40 PM.

Bus Service Operating Route and Ticket Price

Following is the bus service operating route and ticket price:

Bus E100

• It travels from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and costs AED 25.

Bus E101

• It runs between Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and IBN Battuta Bus Station with a ticket price of AED 25.

Bus E102

• It connects Mussafah Shabiya to IBN Battuta Bus Station, and the ticket price is AED 25.

Number of Stops for Each Bus

The number of stops for each bus is as follows:

• E102 Bus

It has the following stops:

1. Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station
2. Mussafah Park
3. Al Najah Private School
4. Al Ain University of Science and Technology
5. Abu Dhabi International Airport Terminal 1 and 3
6. Ibn Battuta Metro Station

• E101 Bus

It stops at the following stations:

1. Abu Dhabi, Central Bus Station
2. Abu Dhabi, Shahama Village
3. Abu Dhabi, Samha
4. Ibn Battuta Metro Bus Stop

• E100 Bus

It makes stops at the following stations:

1. Abu Dhabi, Central Bus Station
2. Abu Dhabi, Shahama Village
3. Abu Dhabi, Samha
4. Al Ghubaiba Bus Station

Understanding Abu Dhabi to Dubai Bus Stations and Routes

Before boarding the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus, it’s important to understand the stations and routes available for your journey. These details can greatly affect your travel plans and convenience. Here’s a breakdown:

Ibn Battuta Bus Station – Closest to Abu Dhabi

• Situated near The Palm and Dubai Marina.
• A common choice for travelers coming from Abu Dhabi.
• Convenient for further transportation via metro or taxi to various Dubai destinations.
• Can be reached by taking either the E100 or E101 bus.

Al Ghubaiba Bus Station – Farther Side of Dubai

• Located on the far side of Dubai, near Deira, Old Dubai (Al Fahidi/Bur Dubai), and Dubai International Airport.
• Considered the endpoint for some Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus journeys.
• Travel time from Ibn Battuta to Al Ghubaiba is approximately 35 minutes.
• Ideal for travelers heading to destinations on this side of Dubai.

E102 Bus Service – Connecting Musaffah and Dubai

• A relatively new bus service connecting Musaffah in Abu Dhabi to Dubai.
• Musaffah is a residential area, not typically a tourist destination.
• Located about a 30-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi.
• Please note that this service does not stop at Abu Dhabi Bus Station.

Understanding these stations and routes is essential for a smooth and convenient journey between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Depending on your destination and plans, you can choose the most suitable option among the available buses.

How to book an Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus ticket?

• To use the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus service, you can obtain a NOI Card. It is a rechargeable plastic card primarily designed for regular travelers. If you’re traveling occasionally, you can opt for the Red NOI Pass.
• The minimum bus fare is AED 4, but it can vary based on the distance you travel.
• The maximum ticket price can go up to AED 25.

To use public transport in the UAE, you need a Nol card, which comes in four types:

1. Nol Red Ticket: This is a paper card for a single trip, and it costs AED 2.
2. Personal Card: Priced at AED 70, this card has a top-up limit of AED 5,000.
3. Gold Card: It costs AED 25 and has a top-up limit ranging from a minimum of AED 500 to a maximum of AED 2,500.
4. Regular Silver Card: This card also costs AED 25 and has a top-up limit of AED 1,000.

You can purchase these cards at RTA Customer Service Centers, vending machines, authorized sales agencies, or online portals.

What developments can you expect in Abu Dhabi to Dubai buses?

A mobile app is available for travelers to easily navigate their routes and get information on Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus timings. It simplifies the process of checking the Abu Dhabi to Dubai intercity bus prices with just a tap, allowing you to access the entire schedule from the comfort of your home.

Abu Dhabi is already equipped with modern amenities, making it one of the most desirable emirates globally. The new Route 2020 project has plans to enhance the Abu Dhabi to Dubai intercity buses, and it includes a metro extension.

There is also a plan to link Abu Dhabi to the Dubai buses, making them even more competitive, in addition to the Expo 2020 project.

Other Transport Options from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

When traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, it’s essential to consider alternative transportation options, as there are no commercial flights directly connecting these two cities. Here are some other ways to make the journey:

Taxi

• Uber and Careem offer taxi services from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.
• The fare is metered and can be considerably higher than taking the RTA public bus.

Car Hire

• Renting a car is an option for travelers who want flexibility.
• While more expensive than public transport, it provides the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Driving in an unfamiliar city can be challenging, so make sure to understand local traffic laws, speed limits, and road conditions before driving.
• Car rental Dubai are widely available throughout Dubai.

Airport Transfer

• Emirates passengers can fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB) and then take a free shuttle bus to Abu Dhabi.
• Details about the shuttle bus service can be found on the Emirates website, and advance booking is required.
• Etihad also operates a coach service between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai, with details available on their website.

Organized Tours

• For those visiting major tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi (such as Louvre, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, etc.), booking an organized tour from Dubai can be convenient.
•  Organized tours typically include transportation, a professional guide, and entrance tickets.

Free Shuttle Bus to Yas Island (Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World)

• Travelers interested in Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World can purchase entrance tickets themselves and use free shuttle buses from Dubai to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
• Buses depart from various locations in Dubai, including Mall of the Emirates, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, City Centre Deira, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Burjuman, Dubai Marina Mall, and more.
• Details can be found on the respective websites of Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World.
• Buses typically operate in the morning and return in the evening, and passengers need to present their e-tickets to the driver. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Conclusion

Taking advantage of public transport facilities offers numerous benefits for both residents and tourists alike. The Abu Dhabi to Dubai intercity bus service is a prime example of well-implemented amenities, receiving high praise for its quality. This route is bustling with activity and showcases some of the UAE’s most attractive destinations.

Whether you’re a daily commuter between these emirates or considering a move to either one, do not underestimate the value of this service. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly understand why it maintains its excellent reputation even years after its launch. It’s a convenient and efficient way to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, enhancing the overall experience for all passengers.

FAQs

Is there a direct bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

Yes, there are direct buses connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai, making the journey convenient for travelers.

How long does it take to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus?

The bus journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

Where can I catch the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus?

You can catch the bus at the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station or various other stops along the route, depending on the bus service you choose.

How often do the Abu Dhabi to Dubai buses run?

Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus services operate regularly, with different timings for weekdays and weekends. Check the specific bus service schedule for details.

Are there different bus options for traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

Yes, there are several bus services, including E100, E101, and E102, offering different routes and timings for travelers to choose from.

Do I need to book my bus ticket in advance?

It is not always necessary to book your bus ticket in advance, but during peak travel times, it’s advisable to secure your ticket ahead of time, especially for added convenience.

Are there any discounts or special cards available for frequent travelers?

Yes, Nol cards and passes offer discounts for regular travelers on Abu Dhabi to Dubai buses. These cards provide convenient payment options and potential savings.

What amenities are available on the Abu Dhabi to Dubai buses?

The buses offer various amenities, including air conditioning, segregated seating for women and children, and optional services like worship rooms and waiting areas at bus stations.

Can I use the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus to access specific destinations within the cities?

Yes, the buses connect to many significant stops in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, making them a practical choice for reaching malls, hotels, and other attractions.

Are there alternative transportation options between Abu Dhabi and Dubai?

Besides buses, you can consider options like taxis, car rentals, airport transfers, and organized tours for traveling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.