The A1 bus route in Abu Dhabi provides a 24/7 connection between Al Zahiyah City Air Terminal and the new Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport. The journey costs a flat rate of AED 4.00 using a Hafilat card, runs approximately every 40-60 minutes, and includes key stops across the city.
Your A1 Bus Quick Guide
- Check Your Card: You cannot pay with cash. Ensure you have a Hafilat card with at least AED 4.00 balance.
- Find Your Stop: In the city, head to Al Zahiyah (City Air Terminal). At the airport, follow signs for public buses outside the Terminal A Arrivals hall.
- Get Real-Time Timings: Download the Darbi app for the most accurate A1 bus timetable and live tracking.
What is the A1 Bus in Abu Dhabi?
The A1 bus is a dedicated 24-hour public transport service connecting Abu Dhabi’s city center with its international airport. It is operated by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) and is one of the most reliable and affordable ways to get to and from your flight.
A 24/7 link to the new Terminal A
Following the closure of Terminals 1, 2, and 3, all flights now operate from the new, state-of-the-art Terminal A. The A1 bus route has been fully updated to service this new terminal directly, making it the primary public bus for all air travelers.
The service runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays, ensuring you can catch a bus regardless of your flight’s arrival or departure time.
Key features of the service
This route is designed specifically for travelers. The buses are modern, fully air-conditioned, and come equipped with designated luggage racks, so you don’t have to worry about your suitcases.
They also typically offer free onboard Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, allowing you to stay connected during your journey.
Who should use the A1 bus?
The A1 bus is an excellent option for solo travelers, budget-conscious visitors, and residents. If you are staying near one of its main stops, it is often more convenient and significantly cheaper (AED 4.00) than a taxi, which could cost between AED 70-100 for the same trip.
Abu Dhabi Airport Bus A1 Timetable and Fare (2026)
Understanding the schedule and cost is essential for a smooth journey. As of 2026, the fare and payment system are standardized across the city’s regional bus network.
Bus frequency and operating hours
The A1 service is available 24/7. The frequency, however, can vary depending on the time of day.
- Peak Hours: You can typically expect a bus every 40 minutes.
- Off-Peak & Late Night: The waiting time may increase to 60 minutes.
The total journey time between Al Zahiyah (City Air Terminal) and Terminal A is approximately 45-60 minutes, but this is highly dependent on traffic conditions.
How much does the A1 bus cost?
The fare for the A1 bus is a flat rate of AED 4.00 per journey. This is not a “per-stop” fare; you pay the same price whether you travel one stop or the entire route.
How to pay for your bus ticket
This is the most critical point for travelers: You cannot pay for the A1 bus using cash, a credit card, or your phone.
Payment is accepted only via a Hafilat Card. This is Abu Dhabi’s rechargeable smart card for public transport. You must tap your card on the reader when you board and tap it again when you get off.
You can purchase a new Hafilat card (or top up an existing one) from:
- Vending machines at the Terminal A Arrivals hall.
- The Al Zahiyah City Air Terminal.
- Major bus stations throughout the city.
A1 Bus Route Abu Dhabi: All Stops (Updated 2026)
The A1 route is designed to hit key destinations, connecting the main airport terminal with popular residential and commercial areas.
Route summary
The bus runs between Al Zahiyah (City Air Terminal) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (Terminal A).
It travels along major roads, including Sultan Bin Zayed The First Street and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, before heading onto the E10 highway toward the airport.
Main stops on the A1 bus route
While the bus makes 33 stops, many are minor. The table below highlights the most important stops and nearby landmarks for travelers. The route is identical in both directions (City to Airport / Airport to City).
| Stop Name | Key Landmarks & Connections |
| Al Zahiyah (City Air Terminal) | Route Start/End. Near Abu Dhabi Mall. |
| Zayed 1st St / ADCB | Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, nearby hotels. |
| Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre | Popular shopping and gold souk area. |
| Sultan Bin Zayed St / Bus Station | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. Connect to intercity buses. |
| Shk Rashid Bin Saeed St / Mushrif Mall | Mushrif Mall, major residential area. |
| ADNEC | Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. |
| Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque | Key tourist stop. A short walk to the mosque entrance. |
| Terminal A | Route Start/End. Abu Dhabi International Airport. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the A1 Bus
Using the bus is simple, even for first-time visitors, if you follow these steps.
Step 1: Get your Hafilat card
Before you plan to board, secure your Hafilat card from a ticket vending machine. A new card costs AED 10 (for the card itself) and you can add credit (e.g., AED 10-20) at the same time. Ensure you have a balance of at least AED 4.00.
Step 2: Find the bus stop
At Terminal A: Exit the Arrivals hall and follow the signs for “Public Transport” or “Buses.” The A1 bus stop is clearly marked.
In the City: Use the Darbi app or Google Maps to find the nearest A1 stop. Look for the distinctive, air-conditioned bus shelters.
Step 3: Boarding the bus and tapping in
When the A1 bus arrives, board from the front door. Locate the payment reader (a small grey or green device) next to the driver and tap your Hafilat card on it. You will hear a beep and see a “GO” message, confirming your AED 4.00 fare has been processed.
Step 4: Storing your luggage
Immediately after boarding, move to the dedicated luggage rack, usually located near the middle of the bus. Place your large suitcases here to keep the aisles clear. Keep your personal bags with you.
Step 5: Tapping out when you disembark
When you reach your destination, exit from the rear doors. You must tap your Hafilat card on the reader located near the exit door. This “tap-out” step is crucial for the system to know your journey is complete.
Pro Tip: Download the “Darbi” app from the ITC before you land. It shows the real-time A1 bus timetable and live location of the next bus, so you can perfectly time your exit from the airport and avoid waiting outside.
Final Thoughts
The A1 bus route in Abu Dhabi is a fantastic public service that remains one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to travel between the city and Terminal A.
For just AED 4.00 and with 24/7 availability, it’s an unmatched option for budget-savvy travelers who want a direct and reliable link to the airport. Just remember to get your Hafilat card in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I pay for the A1 bus with cash or a credit card?
No. Payment is exclusively via the Hafilat smart card. You cannot buy a ticket from the driver with cash, nor can you tap a credit card or debit card. You must buy a Hafilat card from a vending machine at the airport or a major bus station before boarding.
Does the A1 bus go to Terminal 1, 2, or 3?
No. As of November 2026, Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are permanently closed for all passenger flights. The A1 bus route has been updated to exclusively serve the new Terminal A, which is now the only passenger terminal at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
How long does the A1 bus take from the city to the airport?
The journey typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes. However, this can be longer during peak evening rush hour (around 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) due to heavy traffic. Always allow extra time if traveling to the airport for a flight.
What is the A1 bus frequency at night?
The A1 bus runs 24/7. During late-night hours (e.g., 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM), the frequency is reduced. You can expect one bus approximately every 60 minutes during this period. Always check the Darbi app for the most accurate real-time schedule.
- Last updated: October 2026
- Reviewed by: Ali Hassan, Abu Dhabi Transport Specialist
- Disclaimer: Bus routes, fares, and timetables are subject to change by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). Always check the official Darbi app for the latest information.
Author: The DubaiHowto Editorial Team
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Last reviewed: February 2026. Sources: Official UAE portals and service providers