Dubai International Airport (DXB) → Abu Dhabi transfer
Abu Dhabi is about 158 km from Dubai International Airport, a drive of roughly 104–130 minutes, and a private transfer usually costs around €120–170 for a car or €150–210 for a minivan. The exact price is shown before you book.
- From
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- To
- Abu Dhabi
- Distance
- 158 km
- Typical drive
- 104–130 min
Many travellers fly into DXB because of the flight choice and then stay in the capital, on Saadiyat or Yas Island. A private car takes you door to door without changing transport on the way.
What is the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi like?
The route follows the E11, the coastal motorway between the two cities. After leaving Dubai through the southern districts and Jebel Ali, the road runs through open desert country with the Gulf off to the right, before reaching the outskirts of Abu Dhabi.
There is no border control between the emirates. The motorway is wide and fast, with speed cameras along its length, and the drive is comfortable at any time of day. Most of the variation in time comes from Dubai's city traffic at the start.
Where in Abu Dhabi are you going?
- Yas Island
- The first major area you reach from Dubai, with theme parks, the Formula 1 circuit, golf and several large hotels.
- Saadiyat Island
- Beach resorts and the cultural district with the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a little further on and close to the city centre.
- City centre and Corniche
- Business hotels, the waterfront Corniche and the main shopping areas, at the far end of the route.
- Near the Grand Mosque
- Hotels around the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the bridges onto the main island, often reached slightly earlier than the Corniche.
Event weekends and busy dates
Yas Island hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, usually in late November or early December, along with concerts and other big events. On those weekends hotel prices rise, and roads around Yas get crowded before and after sessions. Book the transfer early and give the exact hotel so the driver can plan the approach.
Comfort on a two-hour ride
After a long-haul flight two hours is a real journey. Ask for a minivan if you want more legroom or carry golf bags or extra cases, and mention child seats at booking. The driver can stop briefly on the way if needed.
HotelTaxi arranges the transfer with a local provider used to the Dubai–Abu Dhabi run, and you can book online or on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi?
Around 104–130 minutes for the 158 km, depending on traffic leaving Dubai and where in Abu Dhabi your hotel is.
Is there a border check between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
No. Both are emirates of the UAE, and you drive straight through without any checkpoint.
Is Yas Island closer to Dubai than central Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Yas Island is on the Dubai side of the capital, so it is reached before Saadiyat or the Corniche.
Should I fly into Abu Dhabi instead of Dubai?
If you find a good flight to Abu Dhabi, the drive to your hotel is shorter. Many travellers still choose DXB for the wider choice of flights and add this transfer.
Can I travel with golf bags?
Yes. Declare them when booking so the provider sends a vehicle with enough boot space.