Key hubs
Abu Dhabi airport and railway station
- Airport
- Zayed International Airport (AUH), formerly Abu Dhabi International, about 30 km east of the city; all flights now use Terminal A
- Railway station
- No passenger railway station is useful for visitors that we could verify, so plan on flying in and moving by road
- Getting around
- Metered taxis, ride-hailing apps and city buses; most sights are far apart, so a taxi or hired car with driver is the practical choice
How to reach Abu Dhabi by air
Zayed International Airport (AUH), formerly Abu Dhabi International, is about 30 km east of the city, and all flights now use Terminal A. At the time of writing, Etihad, Air Arabia, Air India Express, IndiGo and Akasa Air were listed on routes to Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Hyderabad and Bengaluru; check schedules before booking.
How to reach Abu Dhabi by train
We found no passenger railway station that is useful for visitors, so do not plan around a train. Most visitors arrive by air or by road from Dubai.
How to reach Abu Dhabi by road
Highways link Abu Dhabi with Dubai, about 1 to 1.5 hours away depending on traffic, and with Al Ain. Etihad coaches run from the airport to Al Ain and Dubai. Hired car with driver is the easiest way to see out-of-town sights.
Getting around Abu Dhabi
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the practical choice, since sights are spread across islands. Airport buses A1 and A2 serve the city centre, and city buses cover main routes. Distances are long, so book a car for the day.
For parents and senior travellers
Easy transfers to and in Abu Dhabi
- At the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, expect long barefoot walks on marble and standing queues. Wear modest, loose clothing, and ask staff about wheelchairs or seating when you book.
- Hire a car with driver for the day, since attractions are spread out. Book the BAPS Hindu Mandir slot in advance and carry your passport or Emirates ID.
- Choose hotels near a lift-served lobby and the pool; check that the room is not far from the lift. Air conditioning runs very cold indoors, so carry a light shawl.
- Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island is a large multi-specialty hospital. Buy travel insurance that covers hospital care before you leave India.
- Carry your regular medicines in original packaging with a doctor's letter, and check the UAE's rules on prescription medicines before you pack.
- Ask the airline or railway for wheelchair or porter assistance when you book, not on the day.
- Pre-book the pickup from the airport or station, so nobody has to negotiate with drivers after a long journey.
- Choose arrivals in daylight where you can, and keep the first afternoon free to rest.