The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is one of the easiest and most scenic road trips in the UAE, a straight shot down a wide highway that takes around 90 minutes. With your own rental car you go on your schedule, stop where you like, and skip the fixed times of buses and the cost of a one-way taxi.
How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai?
It is roughly 140 kilometres between the two city centres, usually about an hour and a half by car on the E11, better known as Sheikh Zayed Road. Traffic is light once you clear the city, and the route is flat, modern and simple to follow.
What to know before you drive
- Tolls: Dubai uses Salik gates and Abu Dhabi uses the Darb toll system. Both are automatic, with no booths to stop at. We handle the toll billing for you, so there is nothing to arrange in advance.
- Speed limits: the E11 limit is generally 120 to 140 km/h; watch the overhead signs and the radar cameras.
- Fuel: petrol is inexpensive in the UAE, so the round trip costs very little to fuel.
- Licence: no special permit is needed to drive between the emirates, and the same licence rules apply throughout the UAE.
The best car for the trip
For a comfortable cruise, a luxury sedan or a spacious SUV makes the highway effortless and the day out relaxed. Watching the budget? An economy car will get you there and back for very little.
What to see in Abu Dhabi
Once you arrive, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Corniche and Yas Island, home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros World and the Formula 1 circuit, are all within easy reach and far simpler to hop between with your own car.
Book your car with free delivery
We deliver anywhere in Dubai, hand you the keys with a full tank, and there is no deposit. Planning to base yourself in Abu Dhabi? We can arrange delivery there too on request.