If you’re planning to travel from Dubai Bus Station to Abu Dhabi, you’re in luck. The UAE’s public transport system makes it easy, comfortable, and budget-friendly to move between these two bustling cities. Whether you’re a tourist, a daily commuter, or just someone planning a weekend trip, taking the bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is one of the most efficient ways to travel.
This guide covers everything you need to know from bus timings, ticket prices, and bus stops, to which bus station to choose. You’ll also learn useful travel tips, how to buy tickets, and what to expect during your journey.
Why Travel by Bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
There are several ways to go from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by car, taxi, or private transfer. But taking the public bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is often the smartest option for most travelers. Here’s why:
- Affordable: The bus ticket costs only around AED 25–35, which is much cheaper than a taxi or private car.
- Comfortable and Air-Conditioned: The intercity buses are modern, clean, and equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
- Frequent Services: Buses run throughout the day, so you can travel whenever it suits you.
- Environmentally Friendly: Using public transport reduces your carbon footprint compared to driving.
Main Bus Routes from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
The Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus service is managed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Transport (DoT). There are several routes available, depending on where you’re starting your journey.
1. E100 Bus – Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
- Starting Point: Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Bur Dubai
- Destination: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
- Ticket Price: AED 25
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
The E100 bus is the most popular route for travelers heading from Dubai Bus Station to Abu Dhabi. It departs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai, making it very convenient for people staying near the creek or older parts of Dubai.
2. E101 Bus – Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
- Starting Point: Ibn Battuta Metro Station (on the Red Line)
- Destination: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
- Ticket Price: AED 25
- Travel Time: Around 90 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
If you live or are staying in the Jebel Ali, Marina, or JLT areas, the E101 bus is your best choice. You can easily take the metro to Ibn Battuta and board the bus directly from there.
3. E102 Bus – Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Mussafah Shabiya, Abu Dhabi
- Starting Point: Ibn Battuta Bus Station
- Destination: Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station (Abu Dhabi)
- Ticket Price: AED 25
- Travel Time: About 2 hours
This route is ideal if your destination is closer to Mussafah or industrial areas in Abu Dhabi rather than the city center.
E100 Bus Timings and Details
The E100 bus timings are very convenient for both residents and tourists. It operates from 4:30 AM until midnight, and buses usually run every 30–45 minutes. During busy hours or weekends, the frequency may increase to accommodate more passengers.
- First bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai: Around 4:30 AM
- Last bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai: Around midnight
- Average waiting time: 30 minutes
If you’re traveling during Ramadan, note that Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus timing in Ramadan may vary slightly, usually starting later in the morning and ending a bit earlier in the evening.
Union Bus Station to Abu Dhabi: What You Should Know
While Union Bus Station in Deira connects to many intercity destinations, the main buses to Abu Dhabi do not depart directly from here. However, you can take the metro from Union Station to Al Ghubaiba Station (Green Line) or Ibn Battuta Station (Red Line), then transfer to a bus heading to Abu Dhabi.
This makes it easy for travelers staying in Deira or Downtown Dubai to reach the Union to Abu Dhabi bus connection via metro and then hop on the E100 or E101.
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station: The Gateway to Abu Dhabi
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest and most well-connected stations in the UAE. It’s located close to Al Fahidi Historical District and Dubai Creek. The station offers:
- Clean waiting areas
- Air-conditioned seating
- Ticket counters and Nol card top-up machines
- Cafeterias and shops nearby
From here, the E100 bus takes you directly to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, making it the go-to spot for many travelers.
How to Buy Tickets for the Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus
Tickets can be purchased using a Nol Card, which is the same card used for metro and other public transport in Dubai. Here’s how it works:
- Get a Nol Card: You can buy one from any metro station or bus terminal.
- Top it up: Add at least AED 25 for a one-way trip.
- Tap in and out: When boarding and leaving the bus, tap your card on the reader.
For tourists, it’s best to buy a Silver Nol Card, which costs AED 25 (including AED 19 credit).
Bus Times: Abu Dhabi to Dubai Return Journey
When it’s time to return, the transport from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is just as simple. You can catch the E100 or E101 bus from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station back to Dubai.
Here are some useful timings:
- E100 Abu Dhabi to Dubai: First bus at 4:30 AM, last bus around midnight.
- E101 Abu Dhabi to Dubai: First bus at 4:45 AM, last bus around 11:30 PM.
- Bus times Abu Dhabi to Dubai may vary slightly on weekends and holidays.
Always check the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus timings today on the official RTA website or RTA app before you travel.
How to Go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai by Bus: Step-by-Step
Here’s a quick guide for anyone asking how to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus:
- Choose your nearest station: Either Al Ghubaiba (E100) or Ibn Battuta (E101/E102).
- Buy or top-up your Nol Card.
- Check the schedule: You can find E100 bus timings and other routes on the RTA website.
- Board the bus: Make sure you tap your Nol Card when entering.
- Enjoy the ride: The bus will make a few stops along the way at Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus stops before reaching the capital.
It’s that simple — safe, affordable, and comfortable.
Bus Stops Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus stops are limited, which helps maintain a fast journey. Common stops include:
- Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Dubai
- Jebel Ali
- Samha
- Shahama
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
If you’re heading to specific areas like Yas Island, Khalifa City, or Mussafah, you can connect using local Abu Dhabi buses once you arrive.
Bur Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus Timings
If you’re staying in Bur Dubai, Al Ghubaiba Bus Station will be your main hub. The Bur Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus timings are the same as the E100 schedule — roughly every 30 minutes from early morning until midnight.
For early travelers, catching the first bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is also convenient, especially for those commuting for work.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus Timing in Ramadan
During Ramadan, RTA adjusts the schedule slightly to align with fasting hours. Generally, buses start running around 5:30 AM and continue until midnight, with reduced frequency during iftar hours. Always confirm via the RTA app before traveling during the holy month.
Public Bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai: Travel Tips
Here are a few quick tips to make your bus from AUH to DXB journey smoother:
- Plan ahead: Buses fill up fast during weekends and holidays.
- Carry a charged Nol Card: You can’t buy tickets onboard.
- Stay hydrated: Though the buses are air-conditioned, UAE’s weather can be hot.
- Use the RTA or DoT app: To check bus availability today and live timings.
How to Get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by Bus
If you’re heading back, just reverse the route:
- From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, take E100 to Al Ghubaiba or E101 to Ibn Battuta.
- Tap your Nol Card to pay.
- The trip takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic.
You’ll find that transport from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is just as efficient as the other way around.
Dubai Intercity Bus Services
Dubai’s intercity network connects the emirates smoothly. Besides the Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus, you can also find routes to:
- Sharjah
- Ajman
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah
This makes Dubai intercity transport a great choice for budget travelers and residents commuting between cities.
Alternatives to the Bus
If you’re not in the mood for public transport, there are other ways to travel:
- Carpooling: Use apps like Careem or Sharek to split the fare.
- Taxi: Costs between AED 250–300 depending on location.
- Private transfers: Ideal for families or groups who prefer comfort.
- Car rentals: Perfect if you plan to explore more of Abu Dhabi.
Still, for most people, the bus going to Abu Dhabi remains the top choice for convenience and price.
Experience Comfort and Safety on Board
Each Dubai to Abu Dhabi bus is fully air-conditioned and equipped with:
- Comfortable seats
- USB charging ports
- Wi-Fi (on selected routes)
- CCTV for safety
The ride is smooth, and drivers are trained to follow all road safety regulations.
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Final Thoughts
Traveling from Dubai Bus Station to Abu Dhabi is straightforward, affordable, and comfortable. Whether you catch the E100 from Al Ghubaiba or E101 from Ibn Battuta, both routes offer a reliable way to move between the two emirates.
