The Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal, located on Sultan Bin Zayed the First Street in the heart of the city, is a vital transport hub for both residents and tourists. As a central part of Abu Dhabi’s public transportation network, it offers a simple, cost-effective way to travel around the city and to other Emirates such as Dubai, Sharjah, and Al Ain.
With buses running frequently throughout the day and night, traveling between cities is easy and convenient. Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or commuting daily, you’ll find buses departing regularly — minimizing wait times and maximizing your journey.
Open 24/7 and equipped with modern amenities, the terminal offers easy access to both local and intercity buses. With its efficient system, clean buses, and smooth connections, the Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal makes getting around a breeze.
Central Bus Station
The Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is a bustling transport hub located on Sultan Bin Zayed First Street. It serves as the main departure point for both city routes and long-distance buses traveling to other Emirates, including Dubai, Sharjah, and Al Ain.
Upon arrival, you’ll find ticket counters, a spacious waiting area with plenty of seating, and small cafés where you can grab a snack or coffee. Long-distance buses are modern, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort.
Regular and reliable services connect Abu Dhabi with major destinations. For instance, the E100 and E101 routes head to Dubai, while Route 117 takes you to Sharjah. Fares are affordable, and payments can be made using either cash or a Hafilat card.
The station is easily accessible by taxi and includes dedicated zones for drop-offs and pick-ups. With round-the-clock operation, it’s a convenient choice for travelers at any hour.
Hafilat Bus Card
The Hafilat Card is Abu Dhabi’s official transportation card, offering a hassle-free way to pay for bus rides. Instead of using cash for each journey, you can simply load credit onto your card and tap it when boarding and exiting the bus.
You can purchase and recharge the card at bus terminals, vending machines, and even online. It works across all buses in Abu Dhabi and offers flexible options including pay-as-you-go and monthly passes for unlimited travel.
Whether you’re commuting daily or exploring the city, the Hafilat Card makes public transport smooth, fast, and efficient.
Bus Timings & Routes
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi (Route 117)
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Timings: Daily from 6:00 AM to midnight
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Duration: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
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Fare: AED 35 (cash only)
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Departure Point: Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah
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Stops: Includes a stop at Shahama Village
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Arrival: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
Abu Dhabi to Sharjah (Route 117)
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Timings: Buses operate from 6:00 AM to midnight
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Duration: Around 2 to 2.5 hours
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Fare: AED 35 (cash payment required)
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Departure Point: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
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Stops: Shahama Village en route
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Arrival: Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah
These buses are air-conditioned and often offer free Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi
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Route E100: Departs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
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Route E101: Departs from Ibn Battuta Metro Station
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Timings: Both routes operate from early morning (around 4:30–5:00 AM) to midnight
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Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic
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Fare: AED 25 (payable with NOL card)
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Arrival: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
These buses are frequent, well-maintained, and a great budget-friendly travel option.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai
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Route E100: Leaves from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Dubai
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Route E101: Heads to Ibn Battuta Metro Station, Dubai
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Timings: Daily service from 4:30–5:00 AM to midnight
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Duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours
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Fare: AED 25 (use NOL card for payment)
Both routes provide a smooth and convenient ride, perfect for commuters and visitors alike.
Conclusion
The Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal is your go-to spot for safe, affordable, and comfortable travel within the city and across the UAE. Whether you’re taking the E100 or E101 to Dubai or the 117 to Sharjah, the system is reliable, accessible, and well-organized.
With air-conditioned buses, frequent departures, and simple payment options like the Hafilat and NOL cards, traveling by bus is both convenient and economical. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to get around, Abu Dhabi’s bus network has got you covered.
FAQs
Q: What facilities are available at the Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal?
A: The terminal offers ticket counters, seating areas, cafés, and access to local and intercity buses. It’s open 24/7 and connects to major Emirates like Dubai, Sharjah, and Al Ain.
Q: How do I pay for a bus ride?
A: Use a Hafilat card for Abu Dhabi routes, a NOL card for Dubai-bound trips, and cash (AED 35) for buses to Sharjah.
Q: How frequent are the buses to Dubai?
A: Routes E100 and E101 operate frequently from early morning (around 4:30 AM) to midnight. Travel time is typically 1.5 to 2 hours.
Q: What’s the cost for a Sharjah-Abu Dhabi trip?
A: The fare is AED 35 (cash only), and the trip takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
Q: Are the buses comfortable for long-distance travel?
A: Yes, they are air-conditioned and some offer free Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable ride.
