Zayed International Airport (AUH) → Downtown Dubai & Business Bay transfer
Downtown Dubai and Business Bay are about 115 km from Zayed International Airport, a drive of roughly 90–113 minutes, and a private transfer usually costs around €95–130 for a standard car or €120–160 for a minivan. The exact price is shown before you book.
- From
- Zayed International Airport (AUH)
- To
- Downtown Dubai & Business Bay
- Distance
- 115 km
- Typical drive
- 90–113 min
The first hour is open motorway along the coast. The last part runs right through Dubai along Sheikh Zayed Road, past the Marina, Al Barsha and Al Quoz, which is why this route takes longer than the kilometres suggest.
Why the last 20 kilometres take so long
From the airport the car follows the E11 north-east past Ghantoot and Jebel Ali. Once in Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road becomes a busy city artery with many lanes, junctions and exits. Between Dubai Marina and Downtown traffic is often dense, and on weekday afternoons it can slow to walking pace in places.
Drivers sometimes use the inland E311 when the coastal road is congested, and choose the final approach depending on whether your hotel is on the Burj Khalifa side or along the canal in Business Bay.
Downtown or Business Bay: where exactly are you staying?
Downtown Dubai is the district around Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the fountain lake, with hotels, serviced residences and a pedestrian boulevard. Several hotels have entrances on internal roads or podium levels, and Dubai Mall has its own approach roads.
Business Bay lies directly east, along the Dubai Water Canal, with office and hotel towers on both banks. Addresses here are often given by tower name, so share it exactly as it appears in your booking confirmation.
Planning tips for this route
- Business trips
- If you have a meeting on the day you land, count on the upper end of the range at weekday rush hour, roughly 8–10 in the morning and late afternoon.
- New Year and big events
- Around New Year's Eve and large events at Burj Khalifa, roads near Downtown may close early. Book well ahead and allow extra time.
- Families with luggage
- A minivan keeps the near two-hour ride comfortable for children and lots of suitcases. Child seats can be requested when booking.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Abu Dhabi Airport to Burj Khalifa?
Usually 90–113 minutes for the 115 km. Light traffic at night brings it towards 90 minutes, weekday afternoons towards the upper end.
Is it better to fly into Dubai airport for a Downtown hotel?
Dubai International Airport is much closer to Downtown. If your flight lands at AUH anyway, a private transfer gets you there directly without changing transport.
Can the driver drop me at Dubai Mall?
Yes, but a hotel or residence address is easier for meeting and luggage. If you need the mall, agree the entrance with the provider before the trip.
Does heavy traffic in Dubai increase the price?
No. The total price is agreed before booking and stays the same however long the ride takes.
Can I stop on the way to Downtown?
The ride is private and goes directly to your address. If you need a stop, mention it when booking so it can be arranged.
More transfers from Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi)
Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi): arrival and transfer guide