No, there’s no free shuttle service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai for regular travelers. However, you can find affordable bus options for as low as AED 25, and some hotels offer complimentary shuttles for their guests. The 150km journey takes about 90 minutes by road.
Let’s be real, free travel between two major cities sounds too good to be true. And it mostly is. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with cheap and easy ways to make this trip.
Why There’s No Free Public Shuttle
Abu Dhabi and Dubai are separate emirates. They’re about 150 kilometers apart. Running free shuttles between them would cost millions. Neither government offers this service to the public.
Some people confuse airport shuttles with city-to-city transport. That’s different. We’re talking about getting from downtown Abu Dhabi to downtown Dubai.
The Cheapest Option: Public Buses
The RTA bus service connects both cities. It’s not free, but it’s dirt cheap. Bus E101 runs between Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Station.
The ticket costs AED 25 (about $7). Buses leave every 40 minutes during peak hours. The ride takes 90 to 120 minutes depending on traffic.
You get air conditioning and comfortable seats. Not fancy, but totally fine for a short trip. Buy tickets at the station or through the RTA app.
Hotel Shuttles: Your Best Free Option
Here’s the trick: stay at a hotel that offers Dubai shuttles. Many Abu Dhabi hotels run daily trips to Dubai Mall or other attractions. These are free for guests.
Call ahead and ask. Hotels near Yas Island and the Corniche often provide this perk. You’ll need to book a spot because seats fill up fast.
The catch? You’re stuck with their schedule. Most shuttles leave in the morning and return in the evening. No flexibility for your plans.
Intercity Taxis and Ride-Shares
Taxis work if you’re traveling with friends. Split the cost and it becomes reasonable. Expect to pay AED 250 to 300 for the full trip.
Uber and Careem operate between the cities too. Prices vary based on demand. Early mornings are usually cheaper than weekends.
Four people splitting a taxi pay about AED 65 each. That’s only AED 40 more than the bus, but you go door-to-door. No waiting at bus stations.
Car Rentals Make Sense for Groups
Rent a car for the day and you’ve got total freedom. Small cars start at AED 100 per day. Add fuel (about AED 50) and you’re still under AED 200 total.
The drive is simple. Take E11 highway straight to Dubai. It’s well-marked and hard to mess up. Just watch your speed – cameras are everywhere.
Parking in Dubai costs extra. Budget AED 20 to 40 depending on where you go. Still cheaper than multiple taxi rides.
Train Coming Soon (But Not Yet)
The Etihad Rail project will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai by train. It’ll be fast, cheap, and convenient. But it’s not ready yet. Expected completion keeps getting pushed back.
When it launches, this will be the best option. For now, it’s just something to look forward to.
Smart Money-Saving Tips
Travel during weekdays if possible. Weekend traffic turns a 90-minute trip into two hours. You’ll burn more fuel and patience.
Book buses online through the RTA app. It saves time at the station. Plus you can see schedules and plan better.
Pack snacks and water. Bus stations charge tourist prices for everything. A bottle of water costs triple what you’d pay at a supermarket.
What We Recommend
For solo travelers, take the bus. It’s cheap and reliable. You can’t beat AED 25 for a comfortable ride.
Traveling with family or friends? Split a taxi or rental car. The convenience is worth the extra cost. You control the schedule and don’t deal with bus station crowds.
Got hotel points or booking a stay anyway? Choose a hotel with free Dubai shuttles. You save money and hassle.
Best option is to hire a car sharing services from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. It costs less and you get luxury travel everytime.
Bottom Line
Free shuttles don’t exist for regular folks. But getting from Abu Dhabi to Dubai doesn’t have to break the bank. The bus costs less than a fancy coffee. Taxis and rentals work great for groups.
Plan ahead, compare prices, and pick what fits your schedule. The two cities are well-connected. Getting between them is easier than most people think.
