Options compared
| Option | Price | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport taxi | AED 80–100 to the Corniche | 30–40 min | Easy, 24/7 |
| Uber / Careem | AED 70–90 off-peak | 30–40 min | App users |
| Bus A1 / A2 | A few AED | 45–60+ min | Budget, light luggage |
| Private transfer | AED 130–200+ | 30–40 min | Families, luxury resorts |
Prices are typical for 2026. Taxi fares to Saadiyat Island are around AED 100; Yas Island is cheaper as it’s closer to the airport.
Taxi
Official metered taxis wait outside arrivals at Terminal A. Fares include a higher airport starting fee. Taxis are clean, safe and accept cards.
Uber and Careem
Both apps operate at the airport with designated pick-up points. Prices rise at busy times and during events like the F1 weekend.
Buses A1 and A2
Public buses connect Terminal A with central districts such as Al Zahiyah and Khalifa Street, 24 hours a day, roughly every 30–60 minutes. Pay with a Hafilat card or as instructed at the stop. Good for solo travellers on a budget.
Find tours & tickets in Abu DhabiTips
- Many Yas and Saadiyat resorts offer airport transfers; ask when booking.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly to use ride-hailing apps on arrival. Get a travel eSIM for Abu Dhabi
- Choose your base first: where to stay in Abu Dhabi.
More Abu Dhabi guides
- Abu Dhabi travel guide
- 15 best things to do in Abu Dhabi
- Abu Dhabi itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 days
- Where to stay in Abu Dhabi
- Best time to visit Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visitor guide
- Dubai to Abu Dhabi: train, bus or taxi
FAQ: Abu Dhabi airport to the city
How much is a taxi from Abu Dhabi airport to the city?
Usually AED 80–100 to the Corniche or downtown hotels.
Is there a metro in Abu Dhabi?
No. Use taxis, ride-hailing apps or buses.
How far is Yas Island from the airport?
About 10–15 minutes by car.
Plan your trip to Abu Dhabi
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
