Dubai to Abu Dhabi is 140km along Sheikh Zayed Road, a 1–2 hour drive past Yas Island and Ferrari World, with buses costing AED 25–35, taxis AED 250–350, or a Beno rental car for full flexibility to stop at the Grand Mosque, Last Exit, and beyond.
Are you planning a trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for a tour around the United Arab Emirates, or for a change of scenery as a resident? If yes, you must be wondering; what can you see and explore in this journey? Well, in this article, we will look into the various options for traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, with a special focus on the convenience and flexibility offered by car rentals.
Before getting into the details of various transportation options from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, here is one common question: how far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai? These two metropolises are about 140 kilometers (87 miles) apart. Depending on your mode of transport and the condition of the flow of traffic, this journey normally takes between 1 to 2 hours.
Public Transportation Options
Bus Services
The bus is one of the most economical ways to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority operates regular bus services between the two cities. While this option is rather economical, the flexibility and comfort that some travelers would look forward to finding may not be guaranteed with it.
Taxi Services
Those who prefer to go by the more direct route can take a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. But the Dubai to Abu Dhabi taxi fare is a bit too high to afford even for a one-way trip. Taxi services are available door-to-door, but they are also not quite an option for people on a budget.
The Advantages of Renting a Car from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
Renting a car for your travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a highly flexible choice. In the case of a car rental, you are not restricted to a fixed schedule or route. You can make stops along interesting sights, take detours, or adjust the travel time according to your preference.
It is relatively cheaper to rent a car to stay in Abu Dhabi for extended stays. Beno offers competitive rates, especially for daily and weekly rentals. Also, a weekly car rental should be great value for money, especially if you would like to make an extensive tour of Abu Dhabi and its surroundings.
Traveling in a rented car means you can enjoy a comfortable journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. You are in control of the music you want to play, and the temperature of the AC and you can travel with the people you want to have a vibe, especially families or groups traveling together.
How to Rent a Car in Dubai?
Dubai has many car rentals, from international chains to local providers. When choosing a company, look for:
- Company reputation and customer reviews
- The range of available cars
- The terms and conditions of renting
- Insurance coverage
- Additional services are offered, such as GPS or child seats
Beno is UAE's leading rental company according to KhaleejTimes, offering luxury yachts, buggies, helicopters, and over 2000 vehicles comprising of sedans, SUVs, supercars, and vans. Renting a car from Beno is the most reassuring rental experience possible with its team of multilingual professionals that's available to assist you always.
Car Rental Requirements
In general, to rent a car in Dubai, you will need:
- A valid license, with an international driving permit depending on your nationality
- Passport
- A credit card for the deposit
- Minimum age requirement-usually 21 or 25, depending on the car rental company and type of car
Tips for finding cheap car rentals in Dubai
Consider the following tips, if you are planning an affordable trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi:
- Book in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons.
- Compare prices between different rental firms.
- Look out for promotional offers or package deals.
- Also, consider renting from locations other than the airport, which may be cheaper.
- If you do not need extra space, you can consider renting a smaller, more fuel-efficient model
Which Bus Route Goes from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
The most common route from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is via the E11 highway, also known as Sheikh Zayed Road. This well-maintained highway offers a straightforward drive with clear signage.
Points of interest along the way
When you travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in your rented car, you get the opportunity to stop and see some interesting points.
- The Last Exit food truck park
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque if you are entering Abu Dhabi
- Yas Island, which is home to the Yas Marina Circuit that hosts the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros. World
Driving Tips
Following are a few things to keep in mind while you travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by car:
- Know the local traffic laws and signs.
- Keep your eyes peeled for sandstorms that could lower visibility.
- Keep an eye on the fuel level; there are enough petrol stations en route. Stay hydrated, especially if it is summer
Rent a Car to Explore Abu Dhabi
If you have chosen a weekly rent-a-car, there are numerous places you can easily visit, including:
- The Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Corniche Beach
- Emirates Palace
- Qasr Al Watan
When you rent a car per day, you will be able to make day trips to places such as:
- Al Ain Oasis
- Liwa Desert
- Sir Bani Yas Island
Now, you know how to go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, rent a car, fasten your seat belt, and drive. With a cheap rental car in Dubai from Beno, you can make an economical trip to Abu Dhabi from your work or leisure.
FAQs
- How long does it take to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus?
Traveling by bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi typically takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic, departure point, and route.
- What is the cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
The cheapest way to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is via bus and typically costs between AED 25 to AED 35.
- How much does a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi cost?
A standard, one-way metered taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs between AED 250 and AED 350 to ride.
- Can I use Uber or Careem to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
Yes, you can use Careem or Uber to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. However, if you like to drive, a luxury car rental from Beno is your best and most comfortable option to enjoy the ride.
- Will there be a train connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes, a passenger train connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi is actively rolling out as part of the nationwide Etihad Rail network coming to the UAE and reports show that this may be realized by September 2026.
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