How to get from Zayed International Airport to Abu Dhabi city centre (Corniche)
Medium confidenceChecked May 2026
Take an official silver TransAD taxi from the rank — typically AED 70–90 to central Abu Dhabi. Public bus A1 also runs to the city.
Best options
Best overall
Silver TransAD taxi from the official rank.
Cheapest safe
Public bus A1 to the city centre (a few dirhams).
Best at night
TransAD taxis run 24/7 at the marked rank.
With luggage / kids
Taxi is easier for groups; bus has limited space.
Taxi fare
Metered TransAD taxi roughly AED 70–100 to central Abu Dhabi plus airport surcharge. Fares vary with traffic.
Ride-hailing
Careem and Uber operate — designated app pickup zone.
available
Public transport
Bus A1 to the city centre.
Compare your options — AUH → Abu Dhabi city centre (Corniche)
Distance ~30 km, typical journey 25–40 min.
| Option | Typical fare | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | Bus A1 to the city centre. | Cheapest safe option |
| Official taxi | Metered TransAD taxi roughly AED 70–100 to central Abu Dhabi plus airport surcharge. Fares vary with traffic. | Late arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Ride-hailing | Careem and Uber operate — designated app pickup zone. | available |
After landing — step by step
- 1Exit arrivals and follow taxi rank signs
- 2Only board silver TransAD taxis with a meter
Scam warnings
Limo desk upsell inside arrivals
Avoid this
- • Limo counters quoting fixed AED 200+
Frequently asked
Q.How much is a taxi from Zayed International Airport to Abu Dhabi city centre (Corniche)?
Metered TransAD taxi roughly AED 70–100 to central Abu Dhabi plus airport surcharge. Fares vary with traffic.. Always confirm the fare or that the meter is on before pulling away. Watch for: Limo desk upsell inside arrivals.
Q.What is the cheapest safe way from AUH to Abu Dhabi city centre (Corniche)?
Public bus A1 to the city centre (a few dirhams).
Q.Does Uber or ride-hailing work at Zayed International Airport?
Careem and Uber operate — designated app pickup zone.
Q.What's the best way from AUH to Abu Dhabi city centre (Corniche) at night?
TransAD taxis run 24/7 at the marked rank.
Q.What scams should I watch for going from AUH to Abu Dhabi city centre (Corniche)?
Top reported: Limo desk upsell inside arrivals. Use the official taxi rank, never accept a fare from someone approaching you in arrivals.
SOURCES