If you land at Zayed International Airport (previously known as Abu Dhabi International Airport) and are looking for a simple and affordable way to reach Dubai, you are in the right place.
Many travelers fly into Abu Dhabi because Etihad Airways often offers cheaper fares to get to the UAE compared to other top regional airlines such as Emirates or Qatar.
Related: Will Etihad Airways Lure Passengers From Competitors like Emirates & Qatar?
Once you land in Abu Dhabi, taking a bus is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to Dubai.
Here’s your simple guide on how to do it:
Where to Find the Bus at Zayed International Airport
Note: This article focuses on using buses provided by the airport, which can be booked once you land. One can also use buses that are managed by Etihad Airways, but you need to book in advance.
- After you land, collect your bags and follow the signs toward the airport exit.
- Before you completely exit the building, look out for a green bus stall or kiosk. It is usually marked “Buses” or “Bus Services.”
- Here, you can inquire about the next available bus to Dubai.
Bus Details
- Route: The bus departs from Zayed International Airport and drops passengers at Ibn Battuta Bus Station (at Ibn Battuta Mall) in Dubai. It does not make any stops.
- Frequency: Buses depart every hour. (24/7 services)
- For example, if you land at 2:00 PM, you’ll likely catch the 3:00 PM bus.
- Comfort:
- The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and very comfortable.
- They are spacious enough for you to relax or even nap during the journey.
- For your luggage, you will have to put it in the under-bus baggage compartment.
Ticket Price
- Cost:
- It costs only 35 AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham).
- That is roughly 10 USD, depending on the exchange rate.
- You can pay at the bus kiosk before boarding. You will be given a ticket which you will present before being allowed to board.
Drop-off Point in Dubai
- The bus drops passengers at Ibn Battuta Bus Station, located next to Ibn Battuta Mall.
- From there:
- Dubai Marina is about 2 to 5 minutes by taxi or Uber.
- Downtown Dubai is approximately 10 to 15 minutes by car.
- Deira is about 30 minutes.
- At the station, you’ll find plenty of official RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) metered taxis ready to take you to your final destination.
Why Take the Bus?
- Affordable: Using the bus is much cheaper than taking a taxi or Uber for the entire trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.
- Convenient: The hourly 24/7 service makes it easy to plan around your flight arrival time.
- Comfortable: Buses are well-maintained, and the ride is smooth.
Quick Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Pick-up Point | Zayed International Airport Exit |
| Drop-off Point | Ibn Battuta Bus Station, Dubai |
| Frequency | Every hour |
| Cost | 35 AED (~10 USD) |
| Comfort | Air-conditioned, spacious buses |
