Transfers Countries United Arab Emirates Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi to Dubai

Private car transfer from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Door-to-door
in 1 h 30 min

From €16
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Abu Dhabi.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 1 h 30 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Dubai.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

139 km1 h 30 min

Overview: car trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Your drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai offers you the opportunity to explore several notable attractions along the route to enrich your appreciation of this unique country.

If you didn’t get the chance to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque while in Abu Dhabi, your Daytrip driver will be able to take you. This 30-acre complex is home to the world’s largest carpet, largest chandelier, and largest marble mosaic. In the UAE, bigger really is better.

Your first stop outside of Abu Dhabi should be the Emirates Park Zoo, situated approximately 20 miles (35 kilometers) from Abu Dhabi’s city center. Take a tour and see exotic animals from around the world, not just the Middle East.

As you get closer to Dubai, make a stop at the Dubai Miracle Garden, famed for its vast floral displays. This oasis in the desert is the world’s largest flower garden, with almost 18 acres of flower structures and butterfly gardens. Be aware, though, that it is unfortunately closed from May to September due to the extreme heat.

Once you get to Dubai, your Daytrip driver will take you right to the door of your accommodation and help with your luggage. Get the luxury experience in one of the world’s most elite cities.

About Dubai

Dubai is the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the capital of the Dubai Emirate. The UAE functions as a single country with seven emirates, and each emirate is its own monarchy run by an emir. You’ll see some cultural differences as your trip progresses from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Abu Dhabi offers a more conservative, calm vacation, while Dubai is all about glamor.

Situated on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf, Dubai has transformed from a humble fishing village into a global hub of commerce, tourism, and innovation. Dubai’s rise as a financial and tourism center for the Middle East was a response to seeing the oil wealth of its neighbors. Instead of trying to compete with its limited oil resources, Dubai turned to other sectors to support its economy.

Today, Dubai is a dazzling metropolis renowned for its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, and extravagant attractions. It has poised itself as the premier destination for the world’s elite and a link between the Middle East and the rest of the world, with about 90 million people going through its airport annually. At the heart of Dubai is the Burj Khalifa—the world's tallest building—among other man-made wonders like giant aquariums and indoor skiing.

From Abu Dhabi to Dubai: travel tips

Make sure your trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai goes off without a hitch by following these travel tips!

Respect Islamic customs and traditions

While Dubai is an international destination and the foreign population outnumbers the locals, it is still an Islamic country. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan, and be mindful of prayer times when planning activities.

Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions to ensure respectful behavior, as they are most likely different than in your home country. For example, showing public displays of affection are frowned upon, and you must be 21 to drink alcohol.

Dress modestly for comfort

Dressing modestly is important in Islamic culture, and even more so in religious sites. Chests, knees, and elbows should be covered at any mosques you visit. Covering your skin is also important for protecting your skin from the harsh sun. Long sleeves and loose clothing will keep you cool, prevent sunburn, and help you blend into the local population.

How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Despite being a short distance from each other, there are limited options for driving from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. We recommend making a day out of your transfer to see some areas of interest with a private driver.

From Abu Dhabi to Dubai via private driver

The drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is about 85 miles (140 km) and will take 1.5 hours. This is a great amount of time for driving while still getting a few stops into your itinerary. Unlike a regular taxi service, hiring a Daytrip driver means you can add stops directly from Daytrip’s site. This improves communication between our drivers and you!

Take your trip into your own hands, without having to actually drive the car yourself! Adding detours help turn a regular transfer into a day trip full of cultural experiences you might not be able to get to by bus. Our drivers are insured, speak English, and are local to the region. Choose your pick up and drop off times without being held to a bus schedule.

From Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers bus services (E100, E101, and E102) between Abu Dhabi and Dubai for those who would rather skip ordering a taxi or private driver. The journey by bus typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, and fares start at 7 USD (25 AED).

Tickets can be purchased at bus stations or online through the RTA website. It's advisable to book tickets in advance. These intercity buses are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard facilities.

Flights and trains from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Although Abu Dhabi and Dubai both have an international airport, it is not possible to take a flight between these two cities. There are also no trains yet for transporting passengers, but as tourism becomes more important to the UAE’s economy, these services may become available in the future.

Things to do when you get to Dubai

Your party in the UAE is just beginning as you go from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Be dazzled by Dubai’s upscale lifestyle and unique approach to surviving in this harsh landscape!

Shop at the Dubai Mall

If Dubai is known for anything, it’s luxury shopping. Get your souvenirs at one of the largest malls in the world, home to an extensive range of retail outlets, entertainment venues, and attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Just around the corner is the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. It is twice the height of the Empire State Building, so get a unique view on its observation decks.

Go skiing in Dubai

Skiing in the desert? Anything is possible in Dubai! Experience indoor skiing and snowboarding at Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates. It has real snow slopes, chairlifts, penguins, and snow park attractions- the perfect way to cool off in one of the hottest cities.

See Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah broke ground in 2001 and is the first completed project from the UAE’s plan to exponentially increase its coastline for luxury development. This massive land reclamation project is a series of islands shaped like a palm tree, with luxurious beachfront villas, hotels, restaurants, and malls. See the iconic Atlantis hotel, and spend an afternoon at the Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

Palm Jumeirah is part of the UAE’s plan to shift its economic focus away from heavy dependency on oil and towards being a unique, luxury tourism destination. However, it has not fared as well as investors would hope. It is under scrutiny for its effect on marine biology and the natural flow of sediment along the coastline.

Other similar coastline projects have had slow developments and issues with funding. There is even evidence emerging that the entire project may eventually fall back into the sea, so see it now while you can!

Enjoy Dubai’s fountain show

This is perhaps the only free thing to do in Dubai! Witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain Show, a captivating display of water, music, and lights located outside the Dubai Mall, which is synchronized with popular songs and classical music. The show is from 1 to 1:30 PM during the day, and evening shows are every 30 minutes from 6 to 11 PM.

When is the best time to visit Dubai

It comes as no surprise that the UAE has hot summers, with average temperatures in June and July reaching 105°F (41°C). Instead, the best time to visit Dubai is from November to April, Dubai has moderate temperatures and lower humidity levels. You’ll have a much more pleasant trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in the winter.

The weather during this period is generally sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius). This is still considerably warmer than many parts of the world, so if you need some sun in mid-winter, then you’re in the right place!

Winter in Dubai is perfect for outdoor activities, like visiting the Palm Jumeirah Island, Jumeirah Beach, desert safaris, dune bashing, and camel riding experiences. It coincides with Dubai's peak tourist season, and you will find plenty of events, festivals, and attractions to enjoy. If the heat is still too much, even in winter, head indoors to one of Dubai’s many indoor malls. Enjoy luxury shopping, museums, aquariums, and even indoor skiing.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

What to do in Dubai?

Dubai is known for luxury shopping and huge architectural feats. Witness iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Or shop at luxurious malls such as the Dubai Mall, where you can also visit the aquarium and even go skiing. UAE also has a diverse immigrant population and a wide array of dining options from all over the world.

What country is Dubai in?

Dubai is located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country situated in the Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf and sharing boundaries with Oman and Saudi Arabia. The UAE has about 9.4 million people and is best known for its oil production and flashy cities.

What is the best transportation within Dubai?

Dubai has plenty of public transportation options within the city, including buses, trains, and trams. Taxis are also plentiful and the best option if your route takes you a long distance with many public transit transfers.

What is the currency in Dubai?

The currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). It's commonly abbreviated as either AED or Dhs. 1 USD = 3.67 AED, and make sure to select AED on the card reader when paying with your bank card for the best conversion. Only take cash out at reputable exchange desks that offer a receipt and have a well-known brand.

What to wear in Dubai?

There is no official dress code for visiting Dubai but dress modestly and respectfully, especially in public places and religious sites. While Western clothing is generally acceptable, avoid clothing that is too revealing or offensive to local customs. Dressing modestly is also important for covering your skin from the harsh UV rays of the sun.

What time is it in Dubai?

Dubai operates on Gulf Standard Time (GST), which is 4 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+4). During daylight saving time, Dubai does not adjust its clocks, maintaining the same time zone throughout the year. Dubai is 8 hours ahead of New York City and 3 hours ahead of London.

Visit these sights on the way

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

The UAE’s largest mosque is a marvel of architecture and design, both beautiful and record-breaking. A Welcoming White Wonder

Emirates Park Zoo

Nearly 2000 animals are just one of the attractions at this educational and entertaining park. Animals and Activities

Dubai Miracle Garden

At the world’s largest flower garden, hundreds of millions of flowers are shaped into a myriad of colorful shapes, including a full-sized Airbus A380. A Floral Fantasy

Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque

Inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and Andalusian art, offers a beautiful look into Islamic architecture. Blended Blues

Al Noor Mosque

This beautiful interpretation of traditional Ottoman architecture is one of the only mosques in Sharjah open to the public. An Inside Look at Islam

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

2,986 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Dec 28, 2021

Reliable service

“Reliable service. Driver on time, polite well dressed and drove me safely to Dubai from Abu Dhabi in the middle of the night.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler aboubacart69

Dec 17, 2019

Transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and return

“We used Team Day Trip to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi from our cruise, so that we could visit the new Louvre Museum. The transfer both ways was excellent, in a very comfortable car with a good driver. Can highly recommend the service with the online booking system working seamlessly.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler CJStarrenburg

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.