Abu Dhabi’s public transport options are exemplary, to say the least. This does not come as a surprise, as the United Arab Emirates’ capital always makes sure to provide the best for its residents and visitors. The Abu Dhabi transport means are many, each with its own schedules, fees, and routes. So, explore all about these means and their details within this guide.
Abu Dhabi Public Transport Overview
First of all, it must be noted that Abu Dhabi fosters a wide and well-maintained network of public means of transportation. In addition, the public means of transportation in Abu Dhabi vary between buses, taxis, and marine transportation. While they may vary in fees and accessibility – all of these means are equally reliable and convenient. Furthermore, note that the information within this guide is retrieved from the Abu Dhabi Mobility website, so you can rely on them fully!
Abu Dhabi Bus Transport
First of all, Abu Dhabi is known for its massive network of public buses. The Abu Dhabi transport bus route network can help you navigate throughout the Emirate easily because it connects all of its neighborhoods and areas altogether. Thus, it offers a seamless travel experience from and to anywhere in the emirate.
Moreover, travelling using Abu Dhabi’s public buses is considered one of the most affordable transportation methods. The fees for buses in Abu Dhabi are calculated based on the distance between the pick-up destination and the drop-off destination. See below the bus fare in the UAE’s capital:
- Local trips: starting AED 2
- Regional trips: starting AED 2 plus AED 5 per kilometre
Hafilat Card
Additionally, each emirate has its own bus card that makes paying for riding the bus seamless and hassle-free. In Abu Dhabi, commuters can use a Hafilat Card, which is not only easy to use but also saves on bus fares.
- Hafilat Card priced: AED 10
- Card Validity: 5 years
- Purchase locations:
- Al Ain Cooperative
- Lulu Hypermarket branches in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra
Furthermore, the Hafilat Card features various types. While all of these ensure easy bus usage and fare payment. They differ in some features and prices as well.
On-Demand Services
In addition to the regular public bus transport system, which ensures easy mobility throughout the city. Abu Dhabi transportation features an on-demand service called “Abu Dhabi Link.” This service aims to improve the city’s mobility, economy, and quality of life even more. Here is a breakdown of the service fully:
- Booking:
- Download the app and create an account
- Book your ride, enter your pickup and drop-off locations
- Meet the driver at the designated assembly point
- Track your trip from A to Z through the mobile app
- Have a pleasant ride!
- Included areas:
- Al Shahama
- Yas Island
- Al Rahbah
- Al Bahyah
- Saadiyat Island
- Al Sader
- Fees:
- Al Shahama: AED 2 per boarding
- Yas Island and Saadiyat Island: Free
- Operation hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Service 73
Abu Dhabi recently won an award for being a “Bike City” – why is that related you may wonder. Well, that is why bike riders will love Service 73! This is the first bus service that allows commuters to bring their bikes onboard, as the buses feature a designated space for them.
- Operating points: Reem Island and Al Hudayriat Island
- Stops:
- Zayed Educational Complex
- The Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation
- Bab Al Nojoom Camp
- 321 Sports
- Marsana Beach
Abu Dhabi Express
Lastly, if you want to travel quickly across Abu Dhabi, then you will love the Abu Dhabi Express. This service covers various routes at a minimal cost. Also, this service covers the areas below:
- Routes: E-01, E-02, E-03, E-04
- Covered areas:
- Departure:
- Abu Dhabi Bus Station
- Lifeline Hospital
- Arrival:
- Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD)
- Emirates Driving Company
- Al Mafraq Worker City
- Madinat Zayed (Al Dhafra region)
- Al Ghadeer
- MBZ City Bus Station
- Al Safeer Mall
- Departure:
- Operating hours:
- 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Weekdays)
- 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM (Weekends)
Abu Dhabi Bus Companies
Lastly, the capital enhances a wide number of fellow bus companies. All of them offer excellent transportation services, as per your request. To name a few of these bus companies:
- Emirates Transport Abu Dhabi
- Location: ICAD 1، Mussafah
- Contact details: 800 6006
- Al Ghazal Transport Abu Dhabi
- Location: Musaffah
- Contact details: +971 2 408 8400
- Bright Bus Transport Abu Dhabi
- Location: Mohamed Bin Zayed City
- Contact details: +971 2 552 6073
- City Transport Abu Dhabi
- Location: Second Street, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street
- Working hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Sunday – Thursday)
- Contact details: +971 2 446 7522
- National Transport Company Abu Dhabi
- Location: Al Danah, Zone 1
- Contact details: +971 2 622 3300
Abu Dhabi Taxi
On the other hand, if you are looking for a private ride, you can always rely on Abu Dhabi taxi services. You will enjoy well-accommodated vehicles that offer air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and professional drivers. All of which are licensed and monitored by authorities. All to ensure you have a safe and pleasant trip. You can also book a taxi to your convenience at any time by calling the numbers below:
- Abu Dhabi taxi booking phone numbers:
- Call centre: 600 53 53 53
- For booking from outside the UAE:+971 2 418 6000
- Vehicle types
- Silver Taxi
- Airport Taxi
- Vito Airport
Taxi Fares
As for the fares, note that they vary depending on vehicle type, daytime, and nighttime. Therefore, the table below will illustrate these fares thoroughly and clearly. Starting with the daytime fares, which are from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM:
| Vehicle Type | Silver Taxi | Airport Taxi | Vito Airport |
| Flag Fall | AED 5 | AED 20 | AED 20 |
| Every 1 kilometre | AED 1.82 | AED 1.82 | AED 1.82 |
| Every minute of waiting | AED 0.50 | AED 0.50 | AED 0.50 |
| Minimum trip Fare | AED 12 | – | – |
| Booking fees | AED 4 | AED 4 | AED 4 |
As mentioned earlier, the fares differ at night, from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. To avoid confusion, the table below will showcase these fares when taking a taxi at night in Abu Dhabi:
| Vehicle Type | Silver Taxi | Airport Taxi | Vito Airport |
| Flag Fall | AED 5.50 | AED 20 | AED 20 |
| Every 1 kilometre | AED 1.82 | AED 1.82 | AED 1.82 |
| Every minute of waiting | AED 0.50 | AED 0.50 | AED 0.50 |
| Minimum trip Fare | AED 12 | – | – |
| Booking fees | AED 5 | AED 5 | AED 5 |
Lastly, it is worth noting that you can pay for taxis in Abu Dhabi through various means in addition to cash. To pay for a taxi in the UAE’s capital, you can rely on the following payment methods:
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
- PayBy App
- Online Card when booking through the Abu Dhabi Taxi App
Marine Transport Abu Dhabi
The last method for Abu Dhabi Public transport is by using its water taxi services. The only flaw of this method is its limited areas. Also, its short working hours may not be suitable for everyone. Other than that it is a wonderful way to quickly move from one destination to another. Also, it is a great adventure to see the city while travelling on a boat! Note that you can book tickets online, and it is best to book a round ticket. Also, make sure to book one day ahead so you will not miss your water taxi.
- Fares:
- Adults: AED 20
- Free of charge tickets:
- Children under 12 years old
- Seniors older than 60 years old
- People of determination plus 1 companion
- Ferry Lines:
- Saadiyat Island – Al Aliah Island
- Dalma Island – Al Dhana
- Water Taxi:
- Marsa Mina – Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Yas Bay – Yas Bay
- Yas Waters Edge – Yas Bay
- Yas Bay – Al Qana Marina
- Contact details:
- Customer Services: 800 10 20 30
- Customer Direct: +971 50 447 3187
- Operating hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday – Friday)
FAQ
Generally speaking, public buses are always the cheapest method of transportation. The trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi would cost around AED 30 for a one-way ticket.
Darbia is the Integrated Transport Centre Abu Dhabi has to offer, where commuters can display real-time bus information.
The Abra is one of Abu Dhabi’s traditional means of public transportation. While you can enjoy this experience with the water taxi, you can book it via other channels to enjoy the experience.
To conclude, the Abu Dhabi public transport system offers great accessibility for all. They offer seamless travelling options throughout the city with excellent and well-maintained vehicles. In addition, make sure to explore more travel guides on Property Finder’s blog, including Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and more exclusive guides.
