The most direct option for travel is the 24/7 Abu Dhabi Airport Express, which runs hourly from Dubai’s Ibn Battuta Station for AED 35. Alternatively, the RTA E102 bus operates from the same station to the airport from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM for AED 25. Both trips take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Plan Your Trip: Quick Actions
- Choose Your Service: If traveling late at night or with a credit card, the 24/7 Abu Dhabi Airport Express is your best option. For a budget trip during the day, take the RTA E102.
- Prepare Payment: Ensure you have a Nol card with at least AED 35 balance, or have your credit/debit card ready for the AUH Express.
- Check Timings: Verify the exact departure time for your chosen service using the RTA S’hail app (for E102) or the airport website (for AUH Express).
This guide details the Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport bus timings, ticket prices, and routes for both services to help you plan your journey.
Your Two Main Bus Options: A Quick Comparison
The best bus for you depends on your budget, time of day, and preferred payment method. The “Abu Dhabi Airport Express” is a dedicated 24/7 airport service, while the E102 is a public RTA route that includes the airport as a stop.
| Feature | Abu Dhabi Airport Express (Capital Express) | RTA E102 Bus |
| Operating Hours | 24/7, 7 days a week | 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Frequency | Every 1 hour | Every 1 hour |
| Fare (Ticket Price) | AED 35 | AED 25 |
| Payment Method | Nol Card, Credit/Debit Card, Cash (at counter) | Nol Card only |
| Dubai Departure | Ibn Battuta Bus Station | Ibn Battuta Bus Station |
| Abu Dhabi Arrival | Zayed International Airport (All Terminals) | Zayed International Airport, then Mussafah |
| Trip Duration | Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes | Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (to airport) |
Option 1: Abu Dhabi Airport Express (The 24/7 Service)
This is the most convenient and direct service, specifically designed for passengers traveling to and from Zayed International Airport. It is operated by Capital Express, not the RTA.
What is the AUH Airport Express?
This dedicated express bus runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, between Dubai’s Ibn Battuta Station and all terminals at Zayed International Airport (AUH). It is the only option if you are traveling very early in the morning or late at night.
AUH Express timings and frequency
The service is reliable and runs hourly, 24/7. A bus departs from Ibn Battuta Station every hour on the hour (e.g., 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM).
Departure and arrival points
In Dubai, the bus departs from the Ibn Battuta Bus Station. In Abu Dhabi, it stops directly at all airport terminals (Terminals A, B, and C), making it ideal for passengers with luggage.
Option 2: RTA E102 Bus (The Budget-Friendly Route)
The E102 is a public intercity bus route operated by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It is a cheaper alternative but has limited operating hours.
Who should use the E102 bus?
This bus is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who are traveling during its operating hours (5:30 AM to 10:30 PM). It is also the correct bus if your final destination is Mussafah, as the airport is just a stop along its route.
RTA E102 bus timings
The E102 bus runs from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM. The first bus leaves Ibn Battuta at 5:30 AM, and the last bus departs at 10:30 PM. The frequency is one bus every 60 minutes.
E102 route stops
Unlike the direct AUH Express, the E102 makes several stops after the airport. This does not affect your trip to the airport, but it’s important to know.
Key E102 Stops (from Dubai):
| Stop Number | Station Name |
| 1 | Ibn Battuta Bus Station (Starting Point) |
| 2 | Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal 1 & 3 |
| 3 | Mussafah, Al Ain University S & T |
| 4 | Mussafah, Al Najah Private School |
| 5 | Mussafah Community Bus Station (Ending Point) |
The Return: Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai Bus Timings
Getting back to Dubai is just as straightforward. Both services operate from the airport terminals.
Using the AUH Airport Express to Dubai
This remains the easiest option. The 24/7 service runs hourly from Zayed International Airport (Terminals A, B, & C) back to Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai. You can find the bus stands clearly marked outside the arrivals areas.
Using the RTA E102 bus to Dubai
The E102 bus also stops at the airport on its return journey. However, its route starts in Mussafah, so you will be boarding mid-route. The service heading to Dubai also runs on an hourly schedule but only until its last departure from the airport (around 12:00 AM midnight, as it starts from Mussafah earlier).
Bus Fare and How to Pay
The Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport bus fare is highly affordable.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport bus ticket price
The Abu Dhabi Airport Express ticket price is AED 35 one-way.
The RTA E102 bus ticket price is AED 25 one-way.
Understanding the Nol card
A Nol card is a smart card used for all RTA transport in Dubai, including the E102 bus. You must have a Nol card with sufficient balance (at least AED 25) before boarding the E102.
The AUH Airport Express also accepts Nol cards, making it convenient.
Can I pay with cash or credit card?
You cannot pay cash on the E102 bus. You must use a Nol card.
The Abu Dhabi Airport Express is more flexible. You can pay for your AED 35 ticket using a Nol card, a credit card (Visa/Mastercard), or a debit card. You can also pay cash at the ticket counter at the station.
Pro Tip: For RTA buses like the E102, always use the RTA S’hail app or Google Maps for the most accurate real-time tracking and schedule. For the 24/7 Airport Express, check the official Zayed International Airport website, as it is a separate service.
On-Board Experience: Facilities and Luggage
Both services use modern, high-quality coaches designed for intercity travel.
Bus features
You can expect a comfortable journey with features including:
- Full air-conditioning
- Comfortable, reclining seats
- On-board information displays
- Priority seating for women, children, and people of determination
Luggage allowance
These buses are designed for airport travelers. You are allowed to bring one large suitcase (to be stored in the dedicated luggage compartment underneath the bus) and one piece of hand luggage (to be kept with you or in the small overhead rack).
Final Thoughts
Choosing the bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport is an excellent, stress-free travel decision.
For 24/7 convenience and payment flexibility, the Abu Dhabi Airport Express (AED 35) is the clear winner. For the most budget-friendly option during daytime hours, the RTA E102 (AED 25) is a reliable RTA service. Both will get you from Ibn Battuta Station to the airport terminals in about 90 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport after midnight?
You must use the Abu Dhabi Airport Express bus. It is the only service that runs 24/7, with hourly departures from Ibn Battuta Station. The RTA E102 service stops operating at 10:30 PM.
Can I use my Dubai Nol card for the Abu Dhabi airport bus?
Yes, your Dubai RTA Nol card is accepted on both the RTA E102 bus and the Abu Dhabi Airport Express bus. Ensure you have a minimum balance of AED 25 for the E102 or AED 35 for the Express.
What is the cheapest way to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport?
The cheapest way is the RTA E102 bus, which costs AED 25. However, it only runs from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM. The Abu Dhabi Airport Express is slightly more at AED 35 but runs 24/7.
Does the E102 bus go directly to the airport?
Yes, the E102 bus stops directly at Abu Dhabi Airport (Terminals 1 & 3) after departing from Ibn Battuta. It is not the final stop, as the bus continues to Mussafah, but it is a direct stop on the route.
Last updated: October 2026
Reviewed by: Dubaihowto, Transport Editors
(Disclaimer: Timings, routes, and fares (AED) are subject to change by the RTA or airport authorities. Always check the official S’hail app or airport website before your journey.)
Author: The DubaiHowto Editorial Team
DubaiHowto is an independent informational platform created to help UAE residents and visitors understand everyday services such as public transport, telecom, government procedures, visas, fines, and utility systems.
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Last reviewed: February 2026. Sources: Official UAE portals and service providers