Navigating Abu Dhabi Public Transport: Guide to Easy, Affordable Travel
Public transport in Abu Dhabi is modern and covers the city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra regions. It's run by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), part of the Department of Municipalities and Transport. Key perks include:
- Affordable fares: Starting as low as AED 2 for short trips.
- 24/7 access: Buses run round-the-clock.
- Eco-focus: More electric buses and smart tech to cut pollution.
- Easy planning: Use the free Darbi app for real-time routes and maps.
Abu Dhabi aims for 25% of trips via smart solutions by 2040, with updates like Ramadan schedules and holiday boosts for smoother rides.
Buses: The Backbone of Abu Dhabi Travel
Buses are the go-to for daily commutes. There are over 60 routes, including city loops, airport links, and inter-emirate services to Dubai. All buses are air-conditioned, wheelchair-friendly, and have free Wi-Fi.
Key Bus Types
- Standard Service: Covers Abu Dhabi city and suburbs like Al Ain.
- Abu Dhabi Link: On-demand rides via app, book from your phone for door-to-door service (runs 6 AM to 11 PM).
- AD Express: Non-stop from the suburbs to the city center, with 64 buses making 680 weekly trips.
- Regional Routes: Connect to Dubai (e.g., E100 from Abu Dhabi Bus Station).
Bus Fares and Schedules
Fares are distance-based and paid with a Hafilat smart card (buy at bus stops or malls for AED 10 - 20). Load cash or use the Darbi app.
Trip Type |
Fare (AED) |
Schedule Highlights (Daily) |
|
City/Suburbs |
AED 2 + AED 0.15/km |
Every 15 - 30 mins, 24/7 |
|
Regional (e.g., to Al Ain) |
AED 2 + AED 0.05/km |
Every 30 - 60 mins, 5 AM - 11 PM |
|
To Dubai (E100/E101) |
AED 25 one-way |
Every 20 - 30 mins, 4:30 AM - 12:30 AM |
|
7-Day Unlimited Pass |
AED 35 (for visitors) |
N/A - unlimited rides |
|
30-Day Unlimited Pass |
AED varies by zone |
N/A - unlimited rides |
Taxis: Quick and Convenient Rides
Taxis are silver (standard) or black (premium) and easy to spot. Flag them on the street, book via app, or call 600 535 353. Women and families can use pink-roof family taxis.
Taxi Fares
Daytime starts low, with night surcharges (10 PM–6 AM).
Taxi Type |
Starting Fare (AED) |
Per KM (AED) |
Airport Surcharge (AED) |
|
Standard (Silver) |
3.50 (day) / 5 (night) |
1.82 |
15 - 25 |
|
Premium (Black) |
6 |
2.50 |
20 - 30 |
|
Ride-Hailing (Uber/Careem) |
4 - 12 (base) |
Varies by app |
Included in fare |
Emerging Options: Ferries, On-Demand, and Autonomous Rides
- Water Taxis/Ferries: Quick hops between islands like Louvre Abu Dhabi and Yas Marina (AED 5 - 20, book via Abu Dhabi Maritime app).
- Autonomous Delivery & Taxis: First self-driving delivery vehicles launched in Masdar City in September 2025. Passenger autonomous taxis now serve busy spots.
- Car-Sharing: Rent via apps like Udrive for short trips (from AED 1/min).
FAQs
What are the bus fares in Abu Dhabi?
City trips start at AED 2 plus AED 0.15 per km. To Dubai: AED 25 one-way. Use the Hafilat card for easy pay.
How do I book a taxi in Abu Dhabi?
Call 600 535 353, flag on the street, or use apps like Uber, Careem, or Abu Dhabi Taxi. Family taxis have pink roofs.
Are there 24-hour buses in Abu Dhabi?
Yes! Standard buses run 24/7, with night routes marked as "Night Bus."
What's new in Abu Dhabi public transport 2025?
Autonomous taxis on Reem Island, electric bus push, and AD Express non-stop services.
How can I get a public transport pass?
Visit a Customer Happiness Centre with Emirates ID for subsidized passes (AED 35 for 7 days).
