Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: Complete Guide 2026

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, also widely known as Al Wahda bus station, is the beating heart of public transport in the UAE’s capital. Whether you are a daily commuter heading to Dubai, a resident travelling to Al Ain, or a tourist exploring the emirates on a budget, this station is almost certainly part of your journey. Located in the Al Wahda district right next to Al Wahda Mall, this green-painted landmark has been serving residents and visitors since 1989 and continues to expand its reach in 2026.

This guide covers everything you need to know before stepping foot in the station, from its exact location and major bus routes to ticketing options, facilities, travel tips, and connections from key Dubai stations like Al Ghubaiba and Ibn Battuta.

What Is Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is the primary intercity and intracity bus terminal of Abu Dhabi. It is managed by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), which oversees all public bus operations in the emirate. The station serves two major networks:

City Bus Network for routes within Abu Dhabi Island and nearby districts
Region Bus Network for connections to Mussafah, Khalifa City, Al Ain, Ruwais, and other outer areas

Beyond local routes, it is also the main departure and arrival point for buses travelling to and from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

The station is architecturally distinctive, painted in a signature green colour, and was originally designed in 1989 by a Bulgarian state construction company. Over the decades, it has been upgraded to accommodate growing passenger volumes while maintaining an organised and clean environment.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Location

The station sits on Sultan Bin Zayed First Street (also accessible via Hazaa Bin Zayed Street, popularly known as Muroor Road) in the Al Wahda Zone 1 area of Abu Dhabi.

Exact Address: Sultan Bin Zayed First Street, Al Wahda, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Nearby Landmarks

Al Wahda Mall (adjacent, connected via walkway)
Al Nahyan Stadium (short drive away)
Delma Park (within walking distance)
Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel (a few minutes walk)
Centro Al Manhal Hotel (short walk)

How to Reach the Station

Mode of Transport	Details
Taxi / Ride-Hailing	Direct drop-off at main entrance; Careem and Uber available
Local City Bus	Multiple bus lines stop at or near the station
Private Car	Access via Sultan Bin Zayed St or Hazaa Bin Zayed St; paid Mawaqif parking available
From Airport	Abu Dhabi International Airport (Terminal A, Zayed International Airport) connects via city roads directly to the station

Abu Dhabi Bus Station Contact Number and Customer Support

For inquiries, schedule updates, or complaints, passengers can reach the ITC customer service team through the following channels:

Customer Service Helpline: 800850
DARBI App: Download on iOS and Android for real-time route planning and live bus arrival updates
Official ITC Website: For route maps, schedule changes, and fare information

The DARBI app is the most efficient way to check the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station schedule before your journey, especially during public holidays or Ramadan, when timings may be adjusted.

Major Bus Routes from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

The station is a hub for both intracity and intercity travel. Below are the most popular routes, covering secondary keywords passengers frequently search for.

Dubai Routes (E100, E101)

The most heavily used intercity routes connect Abu Dhabi with Dubai.

E100 Bus Route

From: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
To: Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Dubai (Bur Dubai area)
Frequency: Every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours, every 30 minutes off-peak
Journey Time: Approximately 2 hours to 2 hours 20 minutes
Fare: AED 25

The E100 is the route most travellers think of when they need to get from the capital to Old Dubai. If you are starting in Bur Dubai or Deira, Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi via E100 is your best option. The service runs daily with high frequency throughout the day, making it very convenient for both commuters and occasional travellers.

E101 Bus Route

From: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
To: Ibn Battuta Bus Station, Dubai (New Dubai area)
Frequency: Every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours
Journey Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
Fare: AED 25

The E101 is ideal for anyone heading to areas near Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, or Jebel Ali. The Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi route on E101 departs Abu Dhabi from as early as 4:30 AM and runs until around 1:00 AM on weekends and midnight on weekdays. It is also a popular choice among workers in New Dubai who commute to Abu Dhabi.

Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Airport

If you are flying out of the new Zayed International Airport (Terminal A), you can board the E101 from Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, and then connect to an airport feeder route. Alternatively, the AUH Express bus service runs directly to Abu Dhabi Airport. The E101 itself does not stop inside the airport terminal, so an additional connection is needed. Always check updated timings on the DARBI app as airport route schedules can vary.

Sharjah Routes (Bus 117)

From: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
To: Al Jubail Bus Terminal, Sharjah
Fare: Approximately AED 30
Journey Time: Around 3 hours

The Sharjah to Abu Dhabi bus station route via Bus 117 is a popular intercity option for residents who live in Sharjah and work in Abu Dhabi. It is advisable to avoid this route during Friday evenings and Sunday mornings, as traffic between the emirates can significantly extend travel times.

Al Ain Route (X90 and Regional Services)

Bus services to Al Ain depart regularly from the central station and are used by a large number of workers and residents in the Al Ain area. Travel time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and services begin in the early morning.

Other Intercity Destinations

The station also serves routes to Ajman, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. These routes vary in frequency, so it is best to confirm schedules via the ITC’s DARBI app or by calling the station helpline at 800850.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Schedule and Timings

Here is a general overview of operating hours for different service types:

Service	First Departure	Last Departure	Frequency
City Buses (within Abu Dhabi)	5:00 AM	12:00 AM	Every 10 to 30 minutes
E100 (to Al Ghubaiba, Dubai)	4:20 AM	11:50 PM	Every 15 to 30 minutes
E101 (to Ibn Battuta, Dubai)	4:30 AM	12:00 AM (Weekdays) / 1:00 AM (Weekends)	Every 15 to 20 minutes
Al Ain Regional Services	5:30 AM	11:00 PM	Every 30 to 60 minutes
Sharjah (Bus 117)	6:00 AM	10:00 PM	Hourly

Note: Schedules may change on public holidays, during Ramadan, or around major events. Always verify timings on the DARBI app or by calling 800850 before travel.

Peak hours at the station are 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. Arriving at least 15 to 20 minutes early during these periods is strongly recommended.

Ticketing and Payment Options

Hafilat Card

The Hafilat Smart Card is the primary payment method for local Abu Dhabi bus routes. The fare within Abu Dhabi city limits starts from AED 2, with outer suburban routes charged at an additional 5 fils per kilometre. You can purchase and top up your Hafilat card at ticket counters inside the station, at ITC kiosks, and through official digital channels.

Tourists can obtain a temporary Hafilat card valid for 14 days, making it a convenient option for short-term visitors.

Nol Card (Dubai Routes)

For intercity buses connecting to Dubai, including E100 and E101, passengers use the Nol Card issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Nol card machines are available within the station. The flat fare for Dubai-bound buses is AED 25 per trip.

Cash and Card at Counters

For certain intercity routes, tickets can also be purchased at dedicated ticketing counters using cash or bank cards. It is always advisable to have your Hafilat or Nol card ready to avoid delays at boarding.

For checking your Hafilat card balance, refer to the Hafilat Card Balance Check guide on Gulf Emirates to avoid being caught short before your journey.

Facilities at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

The station is well-equipped to handle large numbers of daily passengers. Key facilities include:

Air-conditioned waiting areas with ample seating
Dedicated ticket counters for local and intercity buses
Hafilat and Nol card top-up machines
Clean restrooms and prayer rooms
Information desks with staff assistance
Mini marts, cafes, fast food outlets, and 24-hour convenience stores
Paid luggage storage
ATMs
CCTV surveillance and on-site security personnel
Ramps, accessible restrooms, priority seating, and dedicated assistance for passengers with disabilities and senior citizens
Paid parking with over 500 spaces (AED 5/hour short-term, AED 20/day long-term)

If you want a proper sit-down meal or a wider shopping experience, Al Wahda Mall is directly adjacent and can be reached in under two minutes on foot.

Nearby Bus Stops Around the Station

For passengers using city buses to reach the central station, several stops are within walking distance:

Abu Dhabi Al Wahda Bus Station (2-minute walk)
Abu Dhabi Bus Station (3-minute walk)
Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station 1 (3-minute walk)
Sultan Bin Zayed St / Abu Dhabi Bus Station (5-minute walk)
Hazaa Bin Zayed St / Al Wahda Mall (8-minute walk)

This cluster of stops means the area is exceptionally well-served by city bus lines including routes 101, 110, 162, 34, A1, 102, 104, 111, E100, E101, and several X-series regional routes.

Why Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Matters in 2026

Abu Dhabi’s public transport network has grown significantly over the past decade, and the central bus station remains its most critical node. The ITC continues to upgrade digital infrastructure, including real-time tracking via the DARBI app and expanded Hafilat card acceptance across more routes. Airport services have also been restructured following the launch of the new Zayed International Airport Terminal A, with A1 and A2 airport routes now running 24/7.

For budget-conscious travellers, the intercity bus network between Dubai and Abu Dhabi offers one of the most cost-effective options in the UAE. A taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi can cost between AED 300 and AED 400, while the same journey by bus costs just AED 25 per person.

Beyond cost savings, using public transport contributes to reducing traffic congestion on the Abu Dhabi to Dubai highway, making it an environmentally responsible travel choice. For a broader look at transportation and living in the emirate, explore the Mafraq Industrial Area Abu Dhabi guide on Gulf Emirates for context on Abu Dhabi’s growing infrastructure network.

For official route planning, the ITC’s Abu Dhabi Mobility platform provides updated schedules and maps directly from the source.

Practical Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Carry your Hafilat or Nol card fully topped up. Running out of balance while boarding causes delays for you and other passengers.
Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early, especially during peak hours or on Fridays when intercity buses tend to fill up quickly.
Download the DARBI app before your journey to check real-time bus positions and platform assignments.
Bring a light jacket if travelling in summer. The station is well air-conditioned, and bus cabins are kept cool throughout the journey.
Avoid peak hours between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM and between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM if you have the flexibility.
Check your route number carefully before boarding. The station handles dozens of routes, and platforms can be busy.
Use Mawaqif parking if driving to the station. The zones are clearly marked, and rates are reasonable for short stops.
For Dubai airport connections, do not rely solely on the E101 to reach your terminal. Factor in an additional connection or use the AUH Express bus for a direct airport journey.
Public holidays and Ramadan see adjusted schedules. Always verify via the DARBI app or by calling 800850 before travelling during these periods.
Senior citizens and people with disabilities receive priority seating and dedicated staff assistance at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station?

It is located on Sultan Bin Zayed First Street in the Al Wahda district of Abu Dhabi, right next to Al Wahda Mall. It can also be accessed from Hazaa Bin Zayed Street (Muroor Road).

What is the Abu Dhabi bus station contact number?

You can reach the ITC customer service team by calling 800850. The DARBI app also provides route and schedule information around the clock.

Which bus goes from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi?

The E100 bus departs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai and arrives at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. The fare is AED 25 and the journey takes around 2 hours 15 minutes.

What is the timing of the Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi route?

The E101 bus connects Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. The first bus from Abu Dhabi departs at around 4:30 AM and the last bus runs until approximately midnight on weekdays and 1:00 AM on weekends.

Is there a direct bus from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Airport?

The station does not sit directly inside the airport. Passengers can take the A1 airport bus or connect via feeder routes. The AUH Express is available for a more direct airport connection.

How much does the Sharjah to Abu Dhabi bus cost?

Bus 117 connects Sharjah’s Al Jubail Bus Terminal to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station at approximately AED 30 per trip.

What payment methods are accepted at the bus station?

Local routes accept the Hafilat Card. Intercity routes to Dubai accept the Nol Card. Cash and bank cards are accepted at ticket counters for certain services.

Can tourists use the bus station?

Absolutely. Temporary Hafilat cards valid for 14 days are available for tourists. The station staff can assist with directions and platform guidance.

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: Routes, Timings, Fares and Travel Guide