Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is the UAE’s largest and most comprehensive transportation hub, serving as the primary gateway for intercity travel throughout the Emirates. Located in Al Wahda, this modern facility connects Abu Dhabi to Dubai, Sharjah, Al Ain, and all major destinations across the UAE with reliable, affordable bus services.
Quick Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Official Name | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| Location | Sultan Bin Zayed First Street, Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi |
| Operating Authority | Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) |
| Established | 1989 |
| Significance | UAE’s largest intercity transport hub |
| Daily Passengers | 50,000+ travelers |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 (routes vary) |
Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Location and Access
Strategic Location in Al Wahda
The Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is strategically positioned on Sultan Bin Zayed First Street in the Al Wahda district, making it easily accessible from all parts of Abu Dhabi city. The station offers many routes to popular destinations, including Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
Exact Address: Sultan Bin Zayed First Street, Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi, UAE
How to Reach Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
By Public Transport:
- Bus routes: 101, 110, 120, 162, 32, 56, A1, 34, 54, 52, 055, 11, X90, X60, X62, X65, X80, X87
- Abu Dhabi Metro (when operational)
- Local taxi services
By Private Vehicle:
- Multiple parking facilities available
- GPS Coordinates: 24.4869° N, 54.3546° E
Nearby Landmarks and Communities
Major Landmarks:
- Al Wahda Mall – Direct walking connection (2 minutes)
- The Corniche – 15-minute drive to waterfront
- Qasr Al Hosn – 20-minute drive to heritage site
- Abu Dhabi Mall – 25-minute drive
Surrounding Communities:
- Al Wahda – Shopping and entertainment hub
- Al Khalidiyah – Family residential area with parks
- Madinat Zayed – Commercial district
- Hamdan Street – Business and retail center
- Tourist Club Area (Al Zahiyah) – Hotels and restaurants
Major Bus Routes from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station 2025
Dubai Routes (Most Popular)
| Route | Destination | Bus Number | Duration | Frequency | Fare (AED) |
| Abu Dhabi → Dubai Ibn Battuta | Ibn Battuta Metro | E101 | 1h 30m | Every 15 mins | 25 |
| Abu Dhabi → Dubai Al Ghubaiba | Al Ghubaiba Station | E100 | 2h | Every 20 mins | 25 |
| Abu Dhabi → Dubai Airport | Airport Terminal | E102 | 1h 45m | Every 30 mins | 35 |
Other Emirates Routes
| Route | Destination | Bus Number | Duration | Frequency | Fare (AED) |
| Abu Dhabi → Al Ain | Al Ain Central | X90 | 2h 15m | Every 30 mins | 25 |
| Abu Dhabi → Sharjah | Sharjah Central | E400 | 2h 45m | Every 45 mins | 35 |
| Abu Dhabi → Fujairah | Fujairah Station | E700 | 4h 30m | 3 times daily | 50 |
| Abu Dhabi → Ras Al Khaimah | RAK Central | E800 | 3h 45m | 2 times daily | 45 |
Note: Schedules and fares subject to change. Always verify with official ITC sources.
Abu Dhabi Local Routes
All buses use the Hafilat Card and charge a flat fare of AED 2 within Abu Dhabi City limits while trips to suburbs cost an additional 5 fils per kilometre.
Popular Local Routes:
- Route 54 – City Center to Marina Mall
- Route 56 – Airport to Corniche
- Route A1 – Express city service
- Route 11 – Tourist attractions circuit
Complete Facilities at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
Passenger Amenities
| Facility | Details | Operating Hours |
| Ticket Counters | 12 service windows for all routes | 24/7 |
| Waiting Areas | Air-conditioned seating for 500+ passengers | 24/7 |
| Information Desks | Multilingual staff assistance | 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Restrooms | Modern facilities with disabled access | 24/7 |
| Prayer Rooms | Separate facilities for men and women | 24/7 |
| Left Luggage | Secure storage service | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Food and Shopping Options
Dining Options:
- Cafeteria with local and international cuisine
- Fast food outlets (McDonald’s, KFC equivalents)
- Coffee shops and snack kiosks
- 24-hour convenience stores
Shopping Facilities:
- Souvenir shops
- Mobile phone and electronics stores
- Pharmacy
- Book and magazine stands
Transportation Services
Parking Facilities:
- Short-term parking: AED 5/hour
- Long-term parking: AED 20/day
- 500+ parking spaces available
- CCTV surveillance and security
Other Transport Options:
- Taxi stand with 24/7 service
- Car rental desks (Hertz, Avis, Budget)
- Ride-sharing pickup zone
Abu Dhabi Bus Payment Methods and Cards
Hafilat Card System
The current fare system in Abu Dhabi uses a contactless card for the fare collection system called Hafilat Card that launched on May 15, 2015.
Hafilat Card Types:
- Standard Hafilat – For regular commuters
- Student Hafilat – Discounted rates for students
- Senior Hafilat – Special rates for elderly passengers
- Temporary Hafilat – Valid for a maximum of 14 days (2 weeks), can be recharged up to AED 150
Where to Buy/Recharge Hafilat Cards:
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station ticket counters
- Hafilat Card Abu Dhabi guide – Complete setup instructions
- Major shopping malls
- Metro stations (when operational)
- Online via DARBI app
Bus Schedule Information and Real-Time Tracking
Official Sources for Schedules
Primary Information Sources:
- Abu Dhabi Mobility Official Website – For inquiries and information, visit the Happiness Customer Service Offices at bus stations or call 800850
- DARBI App – Real-time tracking and route planning
- Station digital displays
- Customer service: 800850
Using DARBI for Real-Time Updates
Darbi caters to diverse travel needs with services ranging from journey planning and public transport information to car travel routes, parking locations and ferry schedules.
DARBI App Features:
- Real-time bus locations
- Schedule updates and delays
- Route planning across emirates
- Fare calculations
- Service alerts and notifications
Connecting Transport Options
Dubai Connections
Once you arrive in Dubai from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station:
Ibn Battuta Metro Connection:
- Direct access to Dubai Metro system
- Connect to popular destinations via metro
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station:
- Transfer to local Dubai buses
- Access to Dubai’s extensive bus network
Abu Dhabi Local Connections
From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Local Destinations:
- A15 Bus Timings in Abu Dhabi – Airport connections
- 65 Bus Route Abu Dhabi – City center route
- Local taxi and ride-sharing services
Travel Tips for Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
Before Your Journey
Planning Your Trip:
- Check latest schedules on official ITC website
- Purchase and top-up your Hafilat card in advance
- Arrive 30 minutes before departure for intercity routes
- Download DARBI app for real-time updates
Packing Guidelines:
- Travel light for easier boarding
- Keep essentials in carry-on
- Bring entertainment for longer journeys
- Pack snacks and water
During Your Journey
Comfort Tips:
- Choose seats near air conditioning vents
- Bring a light jacket for cold AC
- Keep ticket and ID readily available
- Follow bus etiquette and safety rules
Safety Recommendations:
- Keep valuables secure
- Stay aware of your belongings
- Follow conductor instructions
- Emergency contact: 999
Future Developments and Improvements
Planned Upgrades (2025-2026)
Infrastructure Enhancements:
- Expanded waiting lounges
- Additional food and retail options
- Improved accessibility features
- Enhanced parking facilities
Technology Improvements:
- Advanced digital displays
- Mobile ticketing integration
- Wi-Fi throughout the station
- Smart wayfinding systems
Service Expansions:
- New routes to emerging areas
- Increased frequency on popular routes
- Express services to major destinations
- Integration with Abu Dhabi Metro
Sustainability Initiatives
Environmental Programs:
- Electric and hybrid bus fleet expansion
- Solar-powered station facilities
- Waste reduction programs
- Green building certifications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where exactly is Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station located?
Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is located on Sultan Bin Zayed First Street in Al Wahda, directly connected to Al Wahda Mall for easy access to shopping and dining.
What are the operating hours of Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?
The station operates 24/7, though individual route schedules vary. Most intercity buses run from 5:00 AM to midnight, while some local services operate around the clock.
How much does it cost to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
Standard fare from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Dubai destinations is AED 25 via routes E100 (Al Ghubaiba) and E101 (Ibn Battuta). Airport routes cost AED 35.
Can I buy bus tickets online for Abu Dhabi routes?
Yes, tickets can be purchased through the official DARBI app, at station counters, or using your recharged Hafilat card directly on buses.
Is parking available at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?
Yes, paid parking is available with over 500 spaces. Short-term parking costs AED 5/hour, while long-term parking is AED 20/day.
What food options are available at the station?
The station features a cafeteria, fast food outlets, coffee shops, and 24-hour convenience stores. Al Wahda Mall next door offers extensive dining options.
Are there facilities for disabled passengers?
Yes, the station is fully accessible with ramps, accessible restrooms, priority seating, and dedicated assistance for passengers with disabilities.
How often do buses run from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
Dubai-bound buses (E100, E101) run every 15-20 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak times.
What should I do if my bus is delayed?
Check the DARBI app for real-time updates, monitor station announcements, or contact customer service at 800850 for assistance and alternative options.
Can tourists use Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station services?
Absolutely! Tourists can purchase temporary Hafilat cards valid for 14 days, making it an affordable way to explore the UAE. Station staff provide assistance in multiple languages.
Related UAE Transport Guides
Abu Dhabi Transport
- Hafilat Card Abu Dhabi – Complete card guide and setup
- A15 Bus Timings in Abu Dhabi – Airport connections
- 65 Bus Route Abu Dhabi – City center route
- Mussafah Bus Station – Industrial area hub
Dubai Connections
- Dubai Metro Timing – Complete metro guide
- F36 Bus Schedule – Mall of Emirates route
- Ibn Battuta to Abu Dhabi Airport Bus Timings – Airport connections
Inter-Emirates Travel
- Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus Timings – Return journey guide
- Muwaileh Bus Terminal Sharjah – Sharjah connections
Banking and Services
- First Abu Dhabi Bank Balance Check – Banking near station
- How to Check Your Abu Dhabi Bank Balance Online – Financial services
Planning to travel from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station? Download the DARBI app for real-time schedules, ensure your Hafilat card is topped up, and arrive early during peak travel times. The station serves as your gateway to affordable, comfortable travel throughout the UAE.
For the latest updates on Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station services and schedules, visit the official Abu Dhabi Mobility website or call customer service at 800850.
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