A private car from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs between 250 to 600 AED ($68 to $163 USD), depending on the vehicle type and service provider. Standard sedans are cheapest, while luxury SUVs cost more. The 150 km trip takes about 90 minutes in normal traffic.
You’re planning a trip between these two cities. Maybe you’ve got luggage. Maybe you’re traveling with family. Or maybe you just want comfort without dealing with public transport.
Let’s break down what you’ll actually pay.
Standard Sedan Prices
Most people book regular sedans. Think Toyota Camry or similar cars. These run 250 to 350 AED for the one-way trip.
This price covers up to four passengers and reasonable luggage. The car picks you up at your location and drops you exactly where you need to go. No stops, no sharing with strangers.
Luxury Car Options
Want to ride in style? Luxury sedans like Mercedes or BMW cost 400 to 500 AED. You get leather seats, more legroom, and a smoother ride.
Premium SUVs like Land Cruisers go for 500 to 600 AED. These work great for groups of six or seven people. Split the cost between friends and it becomes reasonable.
Business travelers often pick luxury options. If you’re heading to an important meeting, arriving in a nice car makes sense.
What Affects the Price
Time of day matters. Rush hour trips cost more because drivers deal with heavy traffic. Early morning or late night rides might also have surcharges.
Your exact pickup and drop-off points change the price too. Going from Dubai Marina to Abu Dhabi Corniche costs less than Dubai Airport to Yas Island. The extra distance adds up.
Tolls are sometimes included, sometimes not. The Salik toll gates between Dubai and Abu Dhabi add about 20 AED. Ask if this is part of your quoted price.
Comparing Your Options
Public buses cost only 25 AED but take three hours with stops. You’re stuck to their schedule and deal with crowds.
Shared taxis run about 50 to 75 AED per person. You wait for the car to fill up before leaving. Could take 30 minutes just to start your trip.
Private cars cost more but save time and stress. You leave when you want. Your luggage stays safe. You can work, sleep, or relax during the ride.
Booking Tips
Book 24 hours ahead when possible. You lock in better rates and guarantee availability. Last-minute bookings during busy times can double the price.
Use apps to compare prices. Careem and Uber show upfront costs. Local companies might negotiate if you call directly.
Ask about return trips. Some drivers offer discounts if you book both ways. This works well for day trips to Abu Dhabi.
Hidden Costs to Watch
Some companies add waiting time charges. If they wait more than 15 minutes at pickup, you might pay extra. Be ready when your car arrives.
Airport pickups sometimes include parking fees. This adds 10 to 20 AED to your total. Confirm this before booking.
Cancellation fees exist with most services. Cancel too late and you’ll lose money. Read the terms before confirming your ride.
Group Travel Math
Traveling with five people? A private car makes financial sense. Split 350 AED five ways and each person pays 70 AED. That’s barely more than a shared taxi but way more comfortable.
Families with kids especially benefit. You control the temperature, play your music, and stop if needed. Try doing that on a bus.
Best Time to Travel
Weekday mornings see the worst traffic. Your 90-minute trip can stretch to two hours. Friday afternoons and weekends move faster.
Plan around prayer times if you can. Traffic clears out temporarily, making your ride quicker.
Is It Worth It?
For solo travelers on a tight budget, probably not. The bus works fine and costs 90% less.
For groups, business trips, or anyone valuing comfort and time, absolutely. You save two hours and arrive relaxed. That’s worth the extra money for most people.
Private cars give you control. You decide when to leave, where to stop, and how the trip goes. In a hot desert climate where comfort matters, that’s not just luxury – it’s smart planning.
