The Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, often referred to as the Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal, isn’t just a transport hub — it’s the heartbeat of intercity connectivity in the capital of the UAE. Strategically located in Al Wahda, this green-domed landmark is where thousands of passengers begin their journeys every day, linking Abu Dhabi to Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates.

In a city that values precision, efficiency, and accessibility, the Central Bus Station stands as a model of smart urban mobility — combining affordability, convenience, and cultural connectivity in one central location.

Table of Contents

Location & Accessibility

The Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station sits in Al Wahda Zone 1, right along Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street (2nd Street) — one of the city’s busiest arteries. Its central placement makes it accessible from nearly every major district in the capital.

Location: Al Wahda, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi
Coordinates: 24.4764° N, 54.3728° E
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

For exact navigation, visitors can easily find it on Google Maps by searching “Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal – Al Wahda.”

The station is adjacent to Al Wahda Mall, a popular retail and dining destination, and a short distance from key residential and business communities, making it a convenient stop for both residents and tourists.

Nearby Communities & Attractions

Living or staying near Abu Dhabi’s main bus terminal offers unbeatable access to transport, shopping, and cultural spots.

Nearby Communities

Al Manhal – 6 minutes away
Al Mushrif – 7 minutes away
Al Bateen – 9 minutes away
Khalidiya – 9 minutes away

Nearby Landmarks & Attractions

🛍 Al Wahda Mall – 6 minutes away
🕌 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – 25 minutes via bus 094
🏰 Al Bateen Palace – 6 minutes away
🌳 Delma Park – 6 minutes away
💎 Gold Souq Abu Dhabi – 10 minutes away (internal link suggestion: /gold-souk-abu-dhabi)

For visitors looking to explore more of the capital, check out things to do in Abu Dhabi — from heritage sites to hidden modern gems.

Internal Routes — Getting Around the Capital

Abu Dhabi’s local bus system is efficient, reliable, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re commuting to work, shopping, or sightseeing, the Internal Routes from the Central Bus Station make it easy to reach almost any major area in the city.

Abu Dhabi Bus Station to the Airport

Route A2 connects the Central Bus Station to Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Stops: Mariam Bint Said Mosque
Duration: ~1 hour
Fare: AED 3.67 – AED 11

To Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Route 094 takes passengers to one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks — the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Stops: Saif Ghobash Street
Duration: 28 minutes
Fare: AED 3.67

(Explore our feature on Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for cultural and visitor insights.)

To Ferrari World & Yas Island Attractions

Routes 160 / 216 connect travelers to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi — the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park — and the entertainment-packed Yas Island.

Duration: 2 hours 17 minutes
Fare: AED 7.35 – AED 11.02

Yas Mall is also reachable via Bus 175, taking about 1 hour 38 minutes, costing AED 3.67 – 7.35.

To Marina Mall

If you’re planning to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s waterfront shopping and dining, Marina Mall is only a short ride away.

Bus 034: 26 minutes
Bus 022: 36 minutes
Average Fare: AED 3.67

To Mussafah Industrial District

For daily commuters, Bus 110 connects the city center to Mussafah, a vital industrial and residential district.

Duration: 34 minutes
Fare: AED 3.67 – AED 7.35

External & Intercity Routes — Connecting the Emirates

Abu Dhabi’s intercity network offers seamless travel across the UAE, connecting travelers to Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain.

Abu Dhabi to Dubai

The E100 and E101 buses are the most popular routes linking the capital to Dubai.

E100: Central Bus Station → Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (Bur Dubai)
- Duration: 2 hrs 45 min
- Fare: AED 33.06 – 55.10
E101: Central Bus Station → Ibn Battuta Metro Station (Jebel Ali)
- Duration: 1 hr 50 min
- Fare: AED 18.37 – 33.06

(For a smooth onward journey, see our Dubai Metro Guide for route connections.)

Abu Dhabi to Al Ain

Route X90: Al Nahyan → Al Ain Central Bus Station
- Duration: 2 hrs 35 min
- Fare: AED 18.37 – 29.38

Al Ain is known for its oases, heritage forts, and cultural landmarks. Explore our article on Al Ain City Guide for travel inspiration.

Abu Dhabi to Sharjah

Route 117: Abu Dhabi Central → Al Jubail Bus Terminal
- Duration: 2 hrs 45 min
- Fare: AED 33.06

Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah

E100 / E101 / 117 Routes
- Duration: 4.5 – 6 hours
- Fare: AED 66.12 – 99.17

Abu Dhabi to Umm Al Quwain

Route 117: Via Al Jubail and Ras Al Khaimah Airport
- Duration: 5 hrs 22 min
- Fare: AED 62.44 – 80.81

Abu Dhabi to Ajman

E100 & 117 Routes
- Duration: 3.5 – 5 hours
- Fare: AED 36.73 – 55.10

For a detailed look at Ajman travel routes, see our guide to Al Jurf Family Park Ajman and nearby attractions.

Facilities Inside Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

The Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal is more than just a waiting area. It’s a well-equipped public facility offering a range of essential services and conveniences for travelers:

🏧 First Abu Dhabi Bank ATM – easy access to cash before travel
📱 Etisalat by e& and DU Express Shop – mobile top-ups & SIM cards (see also Etisalat Data Plans 2025)
💳 Hafilat Smart Card Top-Up Machines – recharge your card for seamless travel
🏝 Delma Island Ferry Reservation Office – book island trips directly
🕌 Prayer Rooms – peaceful spaces for reflection
🥤 Vending Machines & Refreshment Corners – quick snacks and drinks for travelers
🚐 Bus Rental Counters – options to rent private buses to the Western Region

Other Major Bus Stations in Abu Dhabi

If you’re planning to travel within the Emirate, you’ll also find these well-organized bus terminals across the city:

Musaffah Bus Station
Al Shahama Bus Station
MBZ City Bus Station
City Terminal (Corniche)
Murur Bus Station
Bani Yas Bus Station
ICAD Bus Station
Al Wahda Bus Station (a secondary hub next to the main terminal)

Each of these stations integrates with Abu Dhabi’s DARB toll system and Hafilat payment network, ensuring consistency and ease of travel.

Smart Travel Tips

Use the DARBI app by Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) to check live bus timings and plan routes.
Recharge your Hafilat card in advance for smoother commutes.
Try to travel early mornings or late evenings for less crowded trips to Dubai or Al Ain.
Keep small change for quick purchases at vending machines or ticket counters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main bus operator in Abu Dhabi?

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) manages Abu Dhabi’s public buses and Hafilat system under the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).

How much does a bus ticket cost in Abu Dhabi?

Fares within the city typically range between AED 2 – 5, while intercity trips can range from AED 20 to 100, depending on the destination.

What is the E101 bus fare from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

The E101 bus to Ibn Battuta Metro Station costs approximately AED 25–33, depending on your payment method and timing.

Can I use a smart card for bus fare in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, the Hafilat Smart Card is the city’s official contactless payment system for buses, offering both rechargeable and temporary card options.

Are there hotels near Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Yes, several top-rated hotels are within a few minutes’ drive:

Villaggio Hotel & Resort – 6 minutes
Royal Rose Hotel – 12 minutes
Ramada by Wyndham Downtown – 11 minutes
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi – 11 minutes

(See our complete Abu Dhabi hotel guide for more options.)

Is there a toll system like Salik in Abu Dhabi?

Yes — it’s called DARB. Toll gates are active on bridges like Mussafah, Al Maqtaa, Sheikh Khalifa, and Sheikh Zayed Bridge.

Final Thoughts

The Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is more than a stop — it’s the city’s transportation lifeline, connecting communities, landmarks, and Emirates under one efficient network. Whether you’re commuting daily, planning a weekend trip to Dubai, or exploring the UAE’s cultural heartlands, this terminal remains your trusted gateway to seamless, affordable travel.

For more guides on transport, lifestyle, and living in the UAE, explore TheDubaiWeb.com — your go-to source for everything that moves, inspires, and connects Dubai and beyond.

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Emila

Emila is a professional content writer and UAE resident for the past 6 years. Passionate about travel and local exploration, she specializes in creating in-depth guides on UAE destinations, the Dubai Metro, public buses, and practical tips for residents and tourists alike. Through her writing on thedubaiweb.com, Emila helps readers navigate the UAE with ease and confidence.