How to Get to Abu Dhabi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Abu Dhabi

Airports & Airlines

Abu Dhabi is well-connected globally via air. Two main airports serve the emirate.

Major Gateways & Carriers

Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH): Main international gateway.
Etihad Airways: National airline, extensive global routes.
Other major airlines connect AUH to worldwide hubs.

Flights & Price Trends

Direct flights from major global cities are available, but prices vary seasonally.

Booking & Savings

Higher flight prices during peak tourist season (Nov-Mar) and holidays.
More affordable tickets typically during summer (Jun-Aug).
Booking in advance, especially for peak periods, often secures better prices. Consider Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts or use Skyscanner for comparisons.

Airport Facilities

AUH is an up-to-date airport with duty-free shops, dining, lounges, and free Wi-Fi.

Airport Transfers

Taxis, public buses, accommodation shuttles, car rentals, and ride-sharing services are available.

Regional Airport

Al Ain International Airport (AAN) serves the Al Ain region for regional carriers.

Land Transportation Options

Regional Connectivity

Inter-Emirate Buses: Regular, affordable services to Dubai (E100, E101), Al Ain (E201), Sharjah (E307).
Self-driving: Well-maintained roads, drive on the right. IDP plus national license needed for most non-GCC citizens.
Car rental options from DiscoverCars.com or other major companies.
No passenger rail network currently connects Abu Dhabi.

Border Crossings & Rules

Oman: Hili and Mezyad borders near Al Ain. Visa rules vary by nationality.
Ksa: Ghuwaifat border. Complex visa requirements apply.
Border crossings between UAE emirates are available and unrestricted.
Limited international bus services, mainly to Oman.

Road Conditions & Safety

Excellent Infrastructure

Road infrastructure is excellent, with modern, multi-lane highways and well-maintained urban roads.

Driving Rules

Drive on the right side. Speed limits strictly enforced. Seat belts mandatory. Zero-tolerance for drink driving.

Safety Concerns

High speed limits and aggressive road behavior can occur. Maintain safe distances. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.

Sea & River Travel

Cruise & Ferry Services

Sea travel mostly caters to cruise passengers, with no public ferry services for general transportation.

Cruise Port Information

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal: Located at Mina Zayed, welcomes international cruise ship operators.
Immigration procedures handguided by cruise line and UAE authorities.
Taxis, ride-sharing, and pre-arranged transfers available at the terminal.

River Transportation

Abu Dhabi lacks river transportation options.

No Major Rivers

The urban area is mainly coastal and desert-bound.
No public river transportation for general city commuting.
Some hotels/resorts offer private boat transfers or tours.

Departure Procedures

Ensure a smooth departure from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH).

Check-in & Security

Arrive at AUH at least 2-3 hours before international flights.
Online check-in-in is recommended when you can get it.
Prepare for a regular airport security checks.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

AUH offers extensive facilities for a comfortable wait.

Amenities & Services

Duty-free shopping.
Diverse range of places to have a meal.
Various lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, prayer rooms.

Important Departure Notes

No specific exit fees or departure taxes are currently levied from AUH.
Complete passport control procedures efficiently.
Head to your boarding gate as indicated on your boarding pass and airport screens.

Allow extra time during peak seasons or holidays.
If your flight faces issues, remember services like AirHelp.
Ensure all required documents are accessible.

Last-Minute Departure Checks

Before Heading to the Airport

Perform a final check to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

Essential Pre-Airport Checks

Ensure all luggage is packed and weighed, meeting airline limits.
Confirm passport, visa, and boarding pass are accessible.
Check out of where you're staying and settle any remaining bills.

Transportation to AUH

Organize your trip to the airport in advance to avoid stress.

Airport Transfer Options

Book a taxi or ride-sharing service (Careem, Uber) in advance.
Utilize the public bus Route A1 to downtown Abu Dhabi.
Confirm if your hotel offers a dedicated airport bus service.

Currency Exchange

Exchange any remaining Dirhams or spend them at the airport duty-free.

Device Charging

Charge all electronic devices for your onward journey.

Local Language

A few Arabic phrases can enhance your experience.

Final Departure Advice

Security & Customs

Understand the protection and customs procedures to make your... more efficient departure.

Navigating Airport Security

Be prepared to remove all electronics and liquids from your carry-on luggage.
Wear easy-to-remove shoes if necessary by security.
Follow all instructions from airport screening personnel.

On-Board Comfort

Factor in objects that will make your flight more comfortable.

Packing for Your Flight

Noise-canceling earphones for a peaceful flight.
A good book or entertainment loaded onto your device.
An empty reusable water bottle to fill after security.

Post-Departure Considerations

Share Your Experience

Consider sharing your travel stories and photos with friends and family.

Feedback

Provide feedback to your hotel or tour operators to help them improve services.

Plan Your Next Trip

Start dreaming about your next adventure based on your Abu Dhabi experience!

Flight Delay or Cancellation?

Remember that if your flight is delayed or canceled, services like AirHelp can assist you in claiming compensation. Keep your boarding pass and booking reference.

How to Get to Abu Dhabi