Dubai: Day Trips and Tours from Abu Dhabi

Known for its futuristic architecture, 5-star resorts and unlimited shopping opportunities—Dubai is a dream destination for modern travelers from around the world.

When staying in Abu Dhabi, Dubai is just a stone’s throw away and you should not miss out on the opportunity to visit this gem of the UAE.

Dubai day trips from Abu Dubai provide a fun and exciting way to explore one of the most famous cities in the world. A local guide will lead the way and ensure that you see all the top attractions!

Here's all you need to know about Dubai, one of the most exciting day trips from Abu Dhabi.

How to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi?

Dubai is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf in the United Arab Emirates, roughly 140 kilometers northeast of Abu Dhabi.

From Abu Dhabi to Dubai by car

The UAE is well-suited for traveling by private vehicle, and getting from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by car is the option that most travelers choose. The roads are in great condition and all you need to do is head northeast on the E10 and follow the signs to Dubai.

Depending on traffic, which can be heavy at times, the car journey should take around 90 minutes.

From Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus

Bus services in the UAE are typically underutilized by tourists, who often miss out on this affordable and reliable form of transport. To get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai via bus, you’ll need to take the E100 from the Al Wahda Bus Station.

Buses from Abu Dhabi leave every 15 minutes and drop you at Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. The bus journey between these two cities generally takes around 2 hours.

Guided tour to Dubai from Abu Dhabi

Allow a local guide to handle your travel arrangements and the day’s itinerary so that you can sit back, relax and enjoy everything that Dubai has to offer you! You’ll make your way to Dubai in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, reserved solely for your tour group.

Dubai tours from Abu Dhabi are typically full-day experiences, lasting between 8 and 10 hours including travel time.

What is the typical itinerary?

Dubai day trips from Abu Dhabi typically begin with a complimentary pickup service from your hotel. Meet your guide and board the comfortable air-conditioned vehicle before making the 90-minute journey to Dubai.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Dubai?

When looking for Dubai day trips from Abu Dhabi, you have a few different options available to you including guided tours, private tours and tours that include entrance to some of the city’s top attractions.

Once in Dubai, your knowledgeable local guide will show you some of the city’s best sites, often including Dubai Mall, various markets and the Dubai Museum among other attractions. As these are typically full-day trips, you’ll make a stop for lunch which is usually at your own expense.

After having spent the day exploring the incredible city of Dubai with your guide, with plenty of time allocated for taking photos and relaxing along the way, you’ll make your way back to your hotel in Abu Dhabi.

Guided tours to Dubai from Abu Dhabi

Guided tours provide a fun-filled and affordable way to visit Dubai from Abu Dhabi. There will be other travelers on the tour so there will be plenty of opportunities for meeting new people and talking to other tourists from around the world.

Your local guide will follow a set itinerary and you’ll get to see some of the landmarks that have given Dubai its international fame.

Private tour to Dubai from Abu Dhabi

Make the most of your time in the UAE by opting for a private Dubai day trip from Abu Dhabi. You and your travel companions will be the tour’s only participants, so there will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

You may also get to adjust the tour’s itinerary to suit your specific preferences.

Day trip to Dubai with Burj Khalifa entrance from Dubai

While most Dubai day trips make a stop at the incredible Burj Khalifa, not many actually venture into the world’s tallest building. However, there are certain tours that do include entrance tickets to Burj Khalifa’s 124th floor.

See the amazing views provided from ‘At The Top’ after you’ve ridden a highspeed elevator to reach the 124th floor.

How much does a day trip to Dubai from Abu Dhabi cost?

Basic Dubai day trips from Abu Dhabi typically cost between US$40 and US$50 per person depending on the itinerary. These group excursions are inclusive of hotel transfers and entry to any of the places visited.

Group tours that include entrance to Burj Khalifa cost around US$130 per person and visit the world’s tallest building’s 124th floor.

Private Dubai day trips offer a more personalized experience and can cost anywhere between US$300 and US$600 per group. Some groups may be limited to just two people, while others may be limited to 6 people.

What will you see and do?

While each Dubai day trip from Abu Dhabi, many tour operators visit the same landmarks and attractions, including Dubai Museum, Burj Khalifa, Palm Island, Jumeirah Mosque and the Dubai Mall among others.

Dubai Museum

Located in the Al Fahidi Fort (Dubai’s oldest existing building), the Dubai Museum provides insight into the UAE’s fascinating past. The museum presents the opportunity for you to learn more about local history, culture and traditions.

Burj Khalifa

While Dubai is famous for its many skyscrapers, there is none more famous than the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world! While most tours just make a stop outside the building, there are tours that include an entrance ticket to the building's 124th floor.

Palm Island

Palm Island is yet another of Dubai’s architectural wonders. The archipelago is made from reclaimed land and is built in the shape of a palm tree, which can be clearly seen when viewed from above.

Jumeirah Mosque

Thanks to its architectural beauty, the Jumeirah Mosque is said to be the most photographed mosque in Dubai. The story behind the mosque is fascinating and a visit to this place of worship is sure to be an interesting experience for any visitor.

When is the best time to visit Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months (November to March), when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. During the off-season (April-May and September-October) temperatures are also milder. On the contrary, Summer (June to August) is very hot, but suitable for indoor attractions.

Are there any tours to Dubai from other cities in the UAE?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in the UAE:

• Day Trips to Dubai from Sharjah

Travel tips

• Be aware yourself with the local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or public places.
• Dubai's climate can be hot and dry. So, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• When in public, avoid wearing revealing or overly casual clothing.
• Be aware of and follow the laws and regulations in Dubai to ensure a hassle-free experience: public behavior, photography restrictions, alcohol consumption, and transportation regulations.