Abu Dhabi Bus Station 2026: Central Station, Routes, Timings & Fares

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is the main public bus terminal in the UAE capital and an important hub for both local and intercity travel.

Located in Al Wahda, next to Al Wahda Mall, the station connects passengers with destinations across Abu Dhabi as well as major routes to Dubai, Sharjah, Al Ain, Al Dhafra and other areas.

The station is commonly known as:

  • Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
  • Abu Dhabi Main Bus Station
  • Central Bus Station Abu Dhabi
  • Al Wahda Bus Station

Abu Dhabi Mobility manages the public bus network across the emirate. The Central Bus Station serves as the main hub, while stations such as Mussafah Shabiya, Al Shahama and Al Ain support passengers travelling from other parts of the emirate.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Quick Guide

DetailInformation
StationAbu Dhabi Central Bus Station
Also known asMain Bus Station / Al Wahda Bus Station
AreaAl Wahda, Abu Dhabi
Nearby landmarkAl Wahda Mall
Main servicesLocal, regional and intercity buses
Station access24/7
Local bus paymentHafilat smart card
Dubai routesE100 and E101
Sharjah route117
Al Ain routeX90
Airport servicesA-series routes
Journey planningDarbi
Taxi accessAvailable outside the station

Although the terminal operates as a major round-the-clock transport hub, individual bus routes follow their own operating schedules.

Where Is Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is located in Al Wahda in central Abu Dhabi, close to Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street.

It is immediately beside Al Wahda Mall, one of the easiest landmarks to use when finding the station.

The location makes the terminal easy to reach by:

  • taxi;
  • city bus;
  • private car;
  • or connecting public transport.

Its central position also makes it convenient for passengers travelling between the city centre, residential districts, industrial areas and other emirates.

Is Al Wahda Bus Station the Same as Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Yes.

Al Wahda Bus Station is a common name for Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station because it is located directly beside Al Wahda Mall.

If you are travelling by taxi, you can simply ask for:

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

or:

Al Wahda Bus Station

Both normally refer to the same main terminal.

Major Bus Stations in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is the largest and most important hub, but several other stations serve different parts of the emirate.

Bus StationAreaMain Use
Central Bus StationAl WahdaMain local and intercity hub
Mussafah Shabiya Bus StationMussafahIndustrial and residential commuting
Al Shahama Bus StationNorthern Abu DhabiSuburban and residential routes
Al Ain Bus StationAl AinRegional and intercity travel
Airport transport facilitiesZayed International AirportAirport-city connections

Passengers travelling from outer districts do not always need to go through Al Wahda. A nearby regional station may offer a more direct connection.

Types of Bus Routes in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s bus network includes several service categories.

Route TypeCommon CodePurpose
Airport routesAAirport connections
Express routesXLong-distance and regional travel
City routesNumbersDaily travel within Abu Dhabi
Inter-emirate routesE or designated numbersTravel between emirates

Understanding the route prefix can make journey planning much easier.

Local Bus Routes From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

A variety of city and regional services operate through central Abu Dhabi.

Some of the important routes include:

RouteMain ConnectionAreas Served
23Bawabat Abu Dhabi ↔ Al BateenBawabat Abu Dhabi, Al Maqta area, Sheikha Fatima Park
45Al Nahyan / Central Station loopAl Nahyan and central Abu Dhabi
101Al Danah / Capital Park ↔ Dalma Mall / Industrial CityResidential and industrial areas
102Al Danah ↔ MBZ City Bus StationMBZ City
103Al Danah ↔ ADVETI / MBZ CityEducational and residential districts
110Central Abu Dhabi ↔ MussafahIndustrial and worker commuting areas
A2Abu Dhabi city ↔ Zayed International AirportAirport connection
X60Central Station ↔ Mezaira’a / Muzayr’ahOuter Abu Dhabi / Al Dhafra
X70Central Station ↔ Al Marfa / MirfaWestern coastal areas
X88Central Station ↔ RuwaisRuwais and Al Dhafra

Routes and stops can change, so use Darbi before travelling when a specific connection is important.

Main Intercity Bus Routes From Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is especially important for passengers travelling to other emirates.

The main routes include:

RouteDestinationApprox. Travel TimeApprox. FrequencyApprox. Fare
E100Dubai – Al Ghubaiba2 hr 20 min20–30 minAED 25
E101Dubai – Ibn Battuta1 hr 45 minAround 30 minAED 25
117Sharjah – Al Jubail2 hr 30 min45–60 minAED 33
X90Al AinAround 2 hr45–60 minAround AED 25

Journey times can increase during heavy traffic, weekends and public holidays.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Dubai

Dubai is one of the most popular destinations from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.

The two main services are:

  • E100
  • E101

E100 Abu Dhabi to Al Ghubaiba

The E100 connects Abu Dhabi with Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai.

DetailInformation
RouteE100
DestinationAl Ghubaiba, Dubai
Approx. travel time2 hr 20 min
Approx. fareAED 25
FrequencyAround 20–30 min
Operating daysDaily

Al Ghubaiba is useful for passengers travelling toward older parts of Dubai and areas connected with the surrounding Metro and bus network.

E101 Abu Dhabi to Ibn Battuta

The E101 connects Abu Dhabi with Ibn Battuta Bus Station.

DetailInformation
RouteE101
DestinationIbn Battuta, Dubai
Approx. travel time1 hr 45 min
Approx. fareAED 25
FrequencyAround 30 min
Operating daysDaily

Ibn Battuta is particularly convenient for passengers who want to continue by Dubai Metro.

Abu Dhabi to Dubai Bus Timings

E100 Timings

The E100 operates daily.

TimingApproximate Information
First departureAround 4:30 AM
FrequencyEvery 20–30 min
DestinationAl Ghubaiba

Traffic conditions can affect arrival time in Dubai.

E101 Timings

The E101 also operates with multiple daily departures.

TimingApproximate Information
FrequencyAround every 30 min
DestinationIbn Battuta
ServiceDaily

For late-night or early-morning journeys, check the latest departure before heading to the station.

E102 Abu Dhabi–Dubai Service

The E102 is another Dubai-bound service, but it is associated with Mussafah rather than the main Al Wahda terminal.

DetailInformation
RouteE102
Starting areaMussafah
DestinationDubai
First serviceAround 6:20 AM
ServiceContinues into the evening

If you are already at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, E100 or E101 will normally be more relevant for a Dubai trip.

Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Sharjah

The 117 route connects Abu Dhabi with Al Jubail Bus Terminal in Sharjah.

DetailInformation
Route117
DestinationAl Jubail, Sharjah
Approx. travel time2 hr 30 min
FrequencyAround 45–60 min
Approx. fareAED 33

Traffic through Dubai and Sharjah can make the journey longer, especially during busy periods.

Arriving early is recommended on weekends and public holidays.

Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Al Ain

The X90 is one of the main routes connecting Abu Dhabi with Al Ain.

DetailInformation
RouteX90
DestinationAl Ain
Approx. travel timeAround 2 hr
FrequencyApproximately 45–60 min
Approx. fareAround AED 25

Al Ain Central Bus Station serves as an important transport hub for passengers travelling within Al Ain or connecting to other destinations.

Other Al Ain Connections

Another route associated with Al Ain travel is E201.

Because routes and departure points may change, check Darbi before choosing between X90 and other Al Ain connections.

Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Zayed International Airport

Zayed International Airport is connected to Abu Dhabi through dedicated airport services.

Important airport routes include:

  • A1
  • A2
  • A10

Airport Bus Overview

DetailInformation
AirportZayed International Airport
Route typeA-series
Main routesA1, A2, A10
Typical frequencyAround 30–60 min
AvailabilityAirport services operate throughout the day
Areas connectedCity centre, Khalifa Street, MBZ City, Dalma Mall and other districts

Not every airport bus starts directly from Central Bus Station.

For the fastest journey, enter your exact starting point and Zayed International Airport into Darbi.

Local Bus Timings From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Several local services have frequent departures throughout the day.

Route 54

DetailInformation
Route54
DirectionAl Zafra → Mussafah
DaysDaily
Example departures06:30, 06:45, 07:00, 07:15, 07:30, 07:45, 08:00, 08:15, 08:30, 08:45, 09:00

Route 56

DetailInformation
Route56
DestinationCorniche Area
DaysDaily
Example departures05:00, 05:30, 06:00, 06:30, 07:00, 07:30, 08:00, 08:30, 09:00, 09:30, 10:00

Route 102

DetailInformation
Route102
DestinationYas Island corridor
DaysDaily
Example departures05:20, 06:00, 06:40, 07:20, 08:00, 08:40, 09:20, 10:00, 10:40, 11:20, 12:00

Route 32

DetailInformation
Route32
DestinationKhalifa City A
DaysDaily
Example departures06:20, 06:40, 07:00, 07:20, 07:40, 08:00, 08:20, 08:40, 09:00, 09:20, 09:40

Route 44

DetailInformation
Route44
DirectionAl Bateen → Mushrif
DaysDaily
Example departures05:15, 05:30, 05:45, 06:00, 06:15, 06:30, 06:45, 07:00, 07:15, 07:30, 07:45

These departure times are useful for planning, but always check the current schedule before an important journey.

Routes From Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Popular Places

DestinationRoute(s)Approx. Travel Time
Zayed International AirportA2 / suitable A-series routeAround 1 hr depending on origin
Marina Mall034 or 02226–36 min
Mussafah110Around 34 min
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque94Around 28 min
Yas Island175, 160 or 216Around 1 hr 30 min to 2 hr+

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most popular attractions reached from central Abu Dhabi.

Route 94 is associated with this connection.

Approximate journey time is around 28–30 minutes, although traffic and waiting time can affect the total trip.

Use Darbi before departure to confirm the closest stop and current route.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Marina Mall

For Marina Mall, routes such as:

  • 034
  • 022

can provide connections from central Abu Dhabi.

Approximate journey time is around 26–36 minutes.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Mussafah

Route 110 is an important service between central Abu Dhabi and Mussafah.

The trip can take approximately 34 minutes, although peak-hour traffic may increase the journey time.

The route is particularly useful for passengers commuting to industrial and employment areas.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Yas Island

Connections toward Yas Island can include routes such as:

  • 175
  • 160
  • 216

Journey time can range from approximately 1.5 hours to more than 2 hours, depending on the route and connection.

For destinations such as Yas Mall, Yas Island attractions or nearby areas, plan the full journey in Darbi before leaving.

Abu Dhabi Bus Routes to Al Dhafra

Express routes provide connections toward Al Dhafra and western parts of the emirate.

X60

Central Abu Dhabi → Mezaira’a / Muzayr’ah

X70

Central Abu Dhabi → Al Marfa / Mirfa

X88

Central Abu Dhabi → Ruwais

Long-distance services operate less frequently than typical city buses, so check departure times in advance.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Operating Hours

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station functions as a 24/7 transport hub.

However, this does not mean every bus operates continuously.

Each route has its own:

  • first departure;
  • last departure;
  • frequency;
  • and operating pattern.

Airport services may operate through the night, while some local and intercity routes stop earlier.

Always check your specific bus timing rather than relying only on station opening hours.

How to Check Abu Dhabi Bus Timings

The Darbi app and journey-planning service is one of the easiest ways to check Abu Dhabi bus routes and schedules.

It can help you find:

  • bus routes;
  • stops;
  • schedules;
  • connections;
  • journey options;
  • and current transport information.

When you arrive at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, electronic displays and station staff can also help you confirm the correct platform.

Abu Dhabi Bus Fares

Public buses in Abu Dhabi provide an affordable alternative to taxis and private cars.

Local Abu Dhabi Bus Fares

Fare TypeAmount
Starting local fareAED 2
Daily fare capAED 6

Fare rules can depend on the journey and current transport policy.

Intercity Bus Fares

DestinationApprox. One-Way Fare
DubaiAED 25
SharjahAED 33
Al AinAround AED 25–30

For long-distance routes, check the current fare before travelling.

How to Pay for Abu Dhabi Buses

Local Abu Dhabi public buses use the Hafilat smart card.

Cash is not normally accepted on board.

How to Use Hafilat

  1. Make sure your Hafilat card has enough balance.
  2. Tap the card when boarding.
  3. Travel to your destination.
  4. Tap again when leaving the bus.
  5. The correct fare is calculated.

Remember to tap both when entering and exiting.

Where to Buy or Recharge a Hafilat Card

Hafilat cards can be purchased or recharged through supported locations including:

  • bus stations;
  • ticket machines;
  • transport service points;
  • and selected retail outlets.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is one of the most convenient places to handle Hafilat card services before travelling.

How to Pay for Intercity Buses

Payment for intercity journeys can vary depending on the route and operator.

Do not assume that every Dubai, Sharjah or other external service uses exactly the same payment method.

Before boarding an inter-emirate bus:

  1. confirm your route;
  2. check the accepted payment method;
  3. buy or load the required ticket/card;
  4. keep enough balance for the journey.

Station ticket counters can help if you are unsure.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Facilities

Passengers can access a range of facilities at the station.

Waiting Areas

Air-conditioned waiting areas with seating are available for passengers waiting for local and long-distance buses.

Ticket Counters

Staffed ticket counters can help with:

  • bus tickets;
  • route information;
  • departure times;
  • platforms;
  • and transport-card services.

Restrooms

Public toilets are available inside the station.

Prayer Rooms

Dedicated prayer facilities are available for passengers.

ATMs

ATMs are available in and around the terminal.

Food and Refreshments

Passengers can find:

  • minimarts;
  • cafés;
  • quick-service food;
  • drinks;
  • and snacks.

For a wider selection, Al Wahda Mall is directly beside the station.

Free Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available in station waiting areas.

Taxi Rank

A taxi rank is available outside Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.

This makes it easy to continue to a hotel, attraction, residential area or business district after arriving by bus.

Information Desk

Passengers can ask station staff about:

  • route numbers;
  • platforms;
  • bus departure times;
  • transfers;
  • and general transport questions.

Luggage Storage at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Paid luggage-storage facilities are available at the station.

If you plan to leave luggage for several hours, check the current opening hours, size restrictions and charges when you arrive.

Accessibility

The station provides support and designated seating for passengers who may require additional assistance, including:

  • People of Determination;
  • senior citizens;
  • and pregnant passengers.

Station staff can provide assistance when required.

Places Near Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

The station’s Al Wahda location provides easy access to several major Abu Dhabi destinations.

PlaceApproximate Location/Travel
Al Wahda MallDirectly beside the station
Delma ParkNearby
Qasr Al HosnCentral Abu Dhabi
CornicheShort onward journey
Marina MallAround 25–35 min
Sheikh Zayed Grand MosqueAround 30 min
World Trade Center Mall & SoukCentral Abu Dhabi

Hotels Near Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Several hotels are located around Al Wahda and central Abu Dhabi, including:

  • Grand Millennium Al Wahda
  • Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
  • Centro Al Manhal by Rotana
  • La Quinta by Wyndham Abu Dhabi Al Wahda
  • Queen Palace Hotel

Grand Millennium Al Wahda is especially convenient because of its location close to the station and Al Wahda Mall.

Cafés and Restaurants Near Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Food options are available both at the station and nearby.

Options around Al Wahda include cafés, bakeries and fast-food restaurants.

Al Wahda Mall provides a much larger selection if you have a longer wait between buses.

Best Time to Travel From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

The station can become busy during weekday commuting periods.

Common peak periods include:

Morning: approximately 7:00 AM–9:00 AM

Evening: approximately 4:00 PM–7:00 PM

Intercity buses can also become busy:

  • Friday evenings;
  • weekends;
  • public holidays;
  • and before major events.

For Dubai, Sharjah and other long-distance services, arrive early.

Tips for First-Time Passengers

Use Darbi Before Leaving

Check your route, stop and departure time before heading to the station.

Keep Your Hafilat Card Topped Up

Do not wait until you are boarding a local bus to discover that the card has insufficient balance.

Arrive Early for Intercity Buses

This is especially useful for Dubai and Sharjah services during busy travel periods.

Check the Platform

Different routes depart from different parts of the terminal.

Use station displays or ask staff.

Confirm Intercity Payment

Payment methods can vary on external services.

Allow for Traffic

A journey listed as two hours can take longer during heavy traffic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Is Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

It is located in Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi, directly beside Al Wahda Mall.

Is Al Wahda Bus Station the Same as Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Yes. Al Wahda Bus Station is a common name for Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.

Is Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Open 24 Hours?

Yes, the terminal functions as a 24/7 transport hub, although individual routes have their own operating hours.

Which Bus Goes From Abu Dhabi to Dubai?

The main routes are:

  • E100 to Al Ghubaiba
  • E101 to Ibn Battuta

How Much Is the Abu Dhabi to Dubai Bus?

The fare is approximately AED 25 one way on the main services.

How Long Is the Abu Dhabi to Dubai Bus?

Approximate journey times are:

  • E100: 2 hr 20 min
  • E101: 1 hr 45 min

Traffic can increase travel time.

What Time Does E100 Start?

The first service is approximately 4:30 AM.

How Often Does E100 Run?

Around every 20–30 minutes.

How Often Does E101 Run?

Approximately every 30 minutes.

Is There a Bus From Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?

Yes. Route 117 connects Abu Dhabi with Al Jubail Bus Terminal in Sharjah.

How Much Is the Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus?

The fare is around AED 33.

How Long Is Abu Dhabi to Sharjah by Bus?

Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Is There a Bus From Abu Dhabi to Al Ain?

Yes. X90 is one of the main services connecting Abu Dhabi with Al Ain.

How Long Is Abu Dhabi to Al Ain by Bus?

Approximately two hours.

Can I Travel to Zayed International Airport by Bus?

Yes. Dedicated A-series routes connect the airport with different parts of Abu Dhabi.

What Card Is Used for Abu Dhabi Buses?

Use a Hafilat smart card for local Abu Dhabi public buses.

Can I Pay Cash on Abu Dhabi Buses?

Local buses operate using the Hafilat cashless payment system.

Can I Buy a Hafilat Card at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Yes. Hafilat services, including purchase and recharge options, are available through supported facilities at the station.

What Is the Starting Bus Fare in Abu Dhabi?

Local fares start from approximately AED 2.

Is There a Daily Bus Fare Cap?

The local system includes a daily fare cap of approximately AED 6 under applicable fare rules.

Is There Free Wi-Fi at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Yes. Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas.

Is There Luggage Storage?

Yes. Paid luggage storage is available.

Are There Prayer Rooms?

Yes. Prayer facilities are available inside the station.

Can I Get a Taxi From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Yes. A taxi rank is located outside the station.

Is There an App for Abu Dhabi Bus Routes?

Yes. Use Darbi to check routes, stops and bus timings.

Which Bus Goes to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

Route 94 is associated with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque connection from central Abu Dhabi.

Which Bus Goes to Mussafah?

Route 110 is an important central Abu Dhabi–Mussafah service.

Which Bus Goes to Marina Mall?

Routes 034 and 022 provide Marina Mall connections.

Which Buses Go to Yas Island?

Connections can include routes 175, 160 and 216, depending on your exact destination and starting point.

Final Guide to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station in Al Wahda is the main transport hub for passengers travelling around Abu Dhabi or heading to another emirate.

For Dubai:

E100 → Al Ghubaiba

E101 → Ibn Battuta

For Sharjah:

117 → Al Jubail

For Al Ain:

X90 → Al Ain

For airport travel:

Check the A-series route that best matches your location and terminal journey.

For local Abu Dhabi buses, use a Hafilat smart card, keep enough balance available and remember to tap when entering and exiting.

The station operates as a 24/7 transport hub, but every bus route has its own schedule.

For the smoothest journey, check Darbi before leaving home, arrive early for intercity services and confirm your platform and payment method at the station.