Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus Timings, Fares, Routes & Tips (2025)

Are you planning to trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus? Here is everything covered: bus routes (E100, E101, E102), schedules, fares (AED 25), Nol card details, station locations, and insider tips for a smooth journey. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident commuting between cities, this guide will help you to travel cheaply, comfortably, and stress-free

Why Take the Bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

The Dubai to Abu Dhabi intercity bus is the cheapest (AED 25), which is most reliable, and eco-friendly. You can enjoy more benefits, including:

• Affordable fares (vs. taxis costing AED 250+)
• Comfortable coaches with free Wi-Fi, AC, and luggage space
• Frequent departures (every 20-30 mins)
• No advance booking needed (just tap your Nol card)

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus Routes (2025 Updated)

When you are traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, you should be aware of the bus routes. Three main RTA intercity bus routes operate between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. We have provided full information about these routes:

E100 Bus: Al Ghubaiba (Dubai) → Abu Dhabi Central

It is the best for those who travel in Bur Dubai, Deira, Karama, or near Dubai Creek. First bus starts from 4:20 AM (Weekdays) and the Last Bus comes at 11:50 PM (Weekdays), and12:15 AM (Weekends). Here are quick details to explore the schedule of bus timings.

• First Bus: 4:20 AM 11:50 PM (Weekdays)
• Last Bus: 11:50 PM (Weekdays), 12:15 AM (Weekends)
• Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes
• Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (150 km)
• Fare: AED 25 (Nol card only)

E101 Bus: Ibn Battuta (Dubai) → Abu Dhabi Central

This is the best bus for those who travel in Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, or along Sheikh Zayed Road.

• First Bus: 4:30 AM
• Last Bus: 12:30 AM (varies slightly on weekends)
• Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes
• Travel Time: 1.5 to 1.75 hours (115 km)
• Fare: AED 25

Pro Tip: Arrive 15 mins early – queues form quickly during peak hours.

E102 Bus: Ibn Battuta/Al Jafiliya → Mussafah Shabiya (Via Abu Dhabi Airport)

The E102 Bus is best for those passengers heading to Mussafah or Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) and the new Midfield Terminal. The E102 bus now stops at Terminal 1 & 3 of Abu Dhabi Airport before continuing to Mussafah.

• First Bus: 5:00 AM
• Last Bus: 10:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes & 40 mins on Firday.
• Travel Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on stops)
• Fare: AED 25

On Friday, bus frequency reduced every 40 mins vs. 20-30 mins on weekdays. During Peak Hours 6-9 AM, Some E101 buses run non-stop from Ibn Battuta to Abu Dhabi, cutting travel time to 1 hour 15 mins.

Quick Comparison Table

Travelers are allowed a maximum of 2 suitcases, not exceeding a total weight of 30kg. If this limit is surpassed, staff may refuse oversized bags. Remember, Friday mornings have ghost buses that never arrive. One truth I want to tell you is that buses rarely arrive every 20 minutes; in reality, it means 15 to 45 minutes.

Nol Card & Payment Guide

Whenever you want to travel on these buses, remember that it is mandatory to have an Nol card. You cannot travel without it even cash is not accepted at the buses. Always check the Nol card balance before leaving for the journey so that you do not face any obstacles in your journey. Keep a minimum AED 25 (one-way fare) before traveling and according to your need.

Here are some Nol Card Secrets That Save You Money:

Do you know? 90% of visitors buy Silver Nol cards at the airport (AED 25). Instead:

• Get a Red Ticket (AED 2) if making a one-time trip (cheapest)
• Load exactly AED 25 – the system won’t give change
• Kids under 5 technically ride free (but no one checks ages)

If you miss or never to travel on these buses, here are some alternative Transport Options.

FAQs