Abu Dhabi Airport Transfers

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, a city characterised by opulence, stunning beaches, mosques, imposing buildings, adventure sports and monuments. Its airport is strategically located, so it's easy to get around and quickly reach any area or hotel. However, for convenience, it is advisable to organise your travel arrangements before you arrive in the city.

With an organised trip you can enjoy the best things to do in Abu Dhabi without any worries and from the very first moment. Bear in mind, this airport has three terminals and all offer bus stations, taxi ranks and parking for private or shared transfers. After a long flight, you still have to carry your bags and find a way to get to your final destination, so don't worry, I'll tell you about the best options for transfers between the airport and the capital.

To enjoy a carefree journey and arrive in Abu Dhabi without rushing, I recommend using a private transfer. It is an exclusive experience, usually with a professional driver who knows the city very well. It's a service that operates every day of the week, around the clock. Generally, you will have help with your luggage and you will travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

It is a safe option, recommended for family or group trips. You can also take advantage of it if you are travelling alone and don't want to risk going out in search of transport. Generally, the driver will set a meeting point, which is usually the main terminal, and will wait for you there. In case of delays, you don't have to worry as your flight information allows him to know the route in real time.

Interesting details

• Journeytime: less than 25 minutes.
• Price: from 32 euros per person. Please note that the cost may increase, depending on the location of your hotel or the area you are going to.
• Advantages of using this method: you will not have to go out with your luggage, to take the bus or to find transport.
• How to book: it is advisable to book in advance online. All you have to do is provide your personal details, the name of the airline, the flight number, the estimated time of arrival, where you want to be taken, the email address where the booking details will be sent, your country and telephone number.
• Recommended if... you are looking for more comfort and want to enjoy a door-to-door service.

If you want to travel in comfort, but are on a tight budget, you can opt for a shared transfer from Abu Dhabi International Airport. In this case, the costs are shared and the driver usually carries your luggage to the vehicle in which you will be transferred. This is an ideal experience for those who are travelling alone, and for safety reasons don't want to travel on their own by taxi or bus. Please note that depending on the type of vehicle, luggage space is limited.

You can find 3 or 4-passenger cars, minivans and shared buses. Additionally, one factor to keep in mind is that shared shuttles often make several stops to drop off passengers, which increases travel time. In case your flight is delayed, the driver will wait for you for up to an hour, as he usually follows the itinerary.

Useful details

• Duration of the trip: more than an hour, as stops are made at different hotels or points in the city.
• Price: from 20 euros per person.
• Advantages of using this method: you can save a few euros, without putting your safety at risk.
• How to book: you can usually book in advance and cancel without penalty up to 48 hours beforehand. You can book online, you will usually have to fill in a form with your personal details, flight and airline details, estimated time of arrival, country, telephone number, your hotel address and an email to receive confirmation.
• Recommended if... you prefer to have a driver to guide you and accompany you during your first hours in the city.

If it's your first time in Abu Dhabi and you haven't had time to hire a private transfer, you can opt for a taxi ride. You'll find standard taxis with a friendlier fare, which differ in that they are grey and have a yellow sign. If you are looking for a more ostentatious transport, luxury taxis are waiting for you, these services are black Mercedes-Benz transfers with all the comforts.

This option is available around the clock, even on public holidays. To find a taxi, go to terminals 1, 2 or 3 in the signposted areas. The most reliable options are UBER and National Taxi. If you opt for this option, be wary of underground taxis that do not belong to a company, as they may overcharge you or put your wellbeing at risk.

Details of interest

• Journeytime: approximately 25 minutes.
• Price: between 19 and 35 euros, depending on the time and destination.
• Advantages of using this method: it is an ideal option if you are travelling with your family or do not want to share a car. In addition, you will go straight to the hotel to rest after your trip.
• How to book this transport: just arrive at the airport and look for taxis in terminals 1, 2 and 3. The waiting time is usually quite short. In the case of UBER, the service works through an app and you can book a transfer up to 30 days in advance.
• Recommended if... you have a lot of luggage and want to travel comfortably.

If you are on a budget, the best option is to take the public bus. There are different lines operating between the city centre and the airport terminal. Specifically, I recommend taking the A1 bus, which is available around the clock and runs for about 45 minutes. The main advantage of using this method of transport is that return tickets start at 2 euros per person.

However, if you are carrying a lot of luggage it can be a little uncomfortable, as the journey can sometimes be extended due to traffic. Note that the buses go to the City Air Bus Terminal in downtown Abu Dhabi. Buses run every 30 to 40 minutes. So keep an eye out for the bus stop at the airport, which is located between Terminals 1 and 2. For sightseeing around the city, I recommend opting for the Abu Dhabi sightseeing bus tours.

Useful details

• Travel time: 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
• Price: The return ticket costs approximately 2 euros per person. To pay you will need the Halifat Card which costs around 3 euros and can be topped up at vending machines at the airport and in selected shops in Abu Dhabi. If you plan to stay several days and use the bus, opt for a Weekly Pass which costs an estimated 10 euros.
• Advantages of using this method: it's convenient, plus it's the cheapest method of transport.
• How to book this transport: you can buy it online, but you can also buy your tickets when you arrive at the bus station. If you are planning a last minute trip, you don't have to worry as they don't usually sell out.
• Recommended if... you have a limited budget, or your flight arrives in the early hours of the morning and you don't want to pay for a taxi.

In case you plan to stay several days in the city, the best option is to rent a car. This will allow you to move around the city and save a few euros on transport. It's a very convenient method, and there are even car rentals where you can use the vehicle to get to the city centre and drop it off at an agreed point, which will save you time and money. Also, the heat in the UAE can be oppressive, so it's best to opt for the easiest and most comfortable way to get around.

I recommend driving along the E10 and E20 to the city centre. Be aware that you may be asked for your passport, your country's driving licence and an international certificate to rent a car. Petrol generally costs less than 1 euro per litre. Parking is usually free and tolls are charged automatically via an app. By having your own car, you can enjoy the best things to do in Abu Dhabi on your own.

Interesting details

• Travel time: twenty to thirty minutes, depending on traffic. If it's your first time in the city, I recommend using a GPS or map.
• Price: from 40 euros per day. Please note that the cost is usually higher when the delivery is made at the airport, if the delivery is made in other parts of the city it is usually charged around 25 euros per day.
• Advantages of using this method: you will be able to use the car whenever and wherever you want.
• How to book this transport: you can hire the car in advance online or when you arrive at the airport. Keep in mind that sometimes availability is subject to the influx of tourists (especially in high season). Also, some companies allow you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
• Recommended if... you are planning a family or business trip.

If you plan to travel to other cities in the United Arab Emirates and want a quick stopover in Abu Dhabi, an organised tour is the perfect solution. These types of experiences usually include transfers to and from Abu Dhabi, as well as the accompaniment of a professional guide. For example, you can enjoy a city break from Dubai to see the country's capital in a short time.

Some people also choose to hire private or shared transfers for their long stopovers in the city. Usually, a driver will take you to the hotel of your choice, so you can relax. If you prefer, you can venture out on a tour of Abu Dhabi, where you won't have to worry about a thing. Your travel provider will arrange to pick you up a couple of hours before your connecting flight, to take you back to the airport. This is the best option, as if you travel on your own, you may be delayed and miss your journey.

Interesting details

• Duration of the trip: these types of excursions usually have an estimated duration of one day, which allows you to enjoy a quick getaway.
• Price: from 50 euros per person, depending on the services offered. Some tours include transfer, accommodation, meals and entrance fees to certain attractions, which can increase the price.
• Advantages of using this method: you will be able to get to the city quickly and without complications, as well as enjoy a stroll around the capital.
• How to book: You can book in advance online to secure the experience. In addition, there are cancellation policies without penalty up to 24 or 48 hours in advance.
• Recommended if... you want to see several cities in the country, but have little time.

Travelling with a private driver is the best way to enjoy Abu Dhabi, without thinking about anything. It's a similar option to car hire, but with the difference that a trained person who knows every corner of the capital perfectly will be behind the wheel. In an unfamiliar city, it is preferable to be accompanied by a local guide, and these types of trips are usually undertaken in luxury vehicles with all the comforts of home.

It is a safe method of transport, which usually includes a personalised itinerary. With a private driver at your disposal, you can take advantage of Abu Dhabi's best theme parks and explore the city in detail. It's stress-free and time-saving, and you'll get everywhere on time to make the most of every day.

Interesting details

• Travel time: The journey from the airport to the hotel takes approximately 25 minutes.
• Price: from 230 euros per person.
• Advantages of using this method: You can see all the sights of Abu Dhabi at your own pace.
• How to book: It is advisable to book online, a couple of days in advance. Also, make sure you hire reliable and certified companies.
• Recommended if... you are planning a business or leisure trip.

• The City Air Terminal bus station doubles as a mini-airport terminal, located in the city centre. Here you can check in your luggage or check it in and send it to the airport, before heading to the airport to board your flight.
• The lounge offers comfortable spaces, ideal for waiting for your connecting flights or transfers. This space has a relaxation area, lift, free WiFi and air conditioning.
• In Terminal 3 there is an Aerohotel, ideal for long or medium layovers, which has WiFi, wake-up service, air conditioning and more.