A private driver from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs between AED 250 to AED 400 for a one-way trip. The price varies based on car type, time of day, and booking method. The 140-kilometer journey takes about 90 minutes without traffic.

Getting between these two cities is something thousands of people do daily. Whether you’re heading to a business meeting, visiting family, or exploring Abu Dhabi’s attractions, knowing your transport costs helps you plan better.

Breaking Down Driver Costs

Private drivers charge different rates depending on what you need. A basic sedan with a professional driver runs AED 250 to AED 300. Want a luxury car like a Mercedes or BMW? Expect AED 350 to AED 400.

Peak hours cost more. Morning rush (7 AM to 9 AM) and evening rush (5 PM to 7 PM) add AED 50 to AED 100 to your fare. Weekend rates also jump slightly because demand goes up.

Round trips are cheaper per ride. Most drivers offer return journeys for AED 450 to AED 650. That’s better value than booking two one-way trips.

What Affects the Price

Traffic makes a huge difference. Clear roads mean 90 minutes. Heavy traffic stretches it to two or three hours. Drivers charge waiting time if you’re stuck in jams.

The type of service matters too. Booking through hotel concierges costs more than using ride apps. Hotels add their markup. Apps like Careem and Uber offer transparent pricing you can see upfront.

Some drivers charge by the hour instead of per trip. Hourly rates run AED 80 to AED 120. This works if you need multiple stops or want the driver to wait while you handle business.

Cheaper Option: Car Pool Services

Here’s where you save real money. Car pooling between Dubai Abu Dhabi cuts costs dramatically. Instead of paying AED 300 alone, you split the ride with others.

Shared rides cost AED 50 to AED 100 per person. That’s 70% savings compared to private drivers. You’re taking the same route anyway, so why pay full price?

If you spend little bit more, you will get private car lift services. This service is more reliable and luxurious but costs more.

How Car Pooling Works

Several apps connect people traveling the same route. Download apps like Udrive Share, Carpool Arabia, or RidePal. Create an account, enter your route, and find matches.

You see who’s driving, their ratings, and departure times. Pick a ride that fits your schedule. Pay through the app, safe and simple.

Drivers are regular people commuting between cities. They share their empty seats to cover fuel costs. Everyone wins.

Finding Car Pool Services

Facebook groups are gold for this. Search “Dubai Abu Dhabi Carpool” or “UAE Rideshare.” Thousands of members post daily trips. Join, verify your profile, and start connecting.

University groups work great too. Students travel between cities constantly. They’re happy to split costs.

WhatsApp groups exist for regular commuters. Ask friends or colleagues if they know any. Once you’re in, you’ll find rides easily.

Making Car Pooling Work

Be ready on time. Drivers won’t wait long because they have schedules too. Set alarms and plan ahead.

Split costs fairly. If the driver pays AED 100 in fuel and tolls, and four people ride, everyone pays AED 25. Simple math keeps things friendly.

Keep conversations light and respectful. Some people want to chat, others prefer quiet. Read the room.

Other Budget Options

Public buses run between Dubai and Abu Dhabi for AED 25. They’re slow (2.5 hours) but dirt cheap. Buses leave every 40 minutes from Al Ghubaiba station.

Shared taxis wait at the same station. They charge AED 50 per person and leave when full. Faster than buses, cheaper than private drivers.

When to Book Private Drivers

Sometimes private drivers make sense. Late-night travel when carpools aren’t available. Important meetings where you can’t risk delays. Traveling with lots of luggage.

Business travelers often expense these rides anyway. If your company pays, comfort beats savings.

Booking Tips

Compare prices across apps before booking. Careem, Uber, and local taxi companies all have different rates. Five minutes of checking saves AED 50 to AED 100.

Book in advance when possible. Last-minute bookings during peak hours cost more. Plan your trip the night before.

Ask about waiting charges upfront. Some drivers include 30 minutes free waiting. Others charge from minute one.

The Smart Choice

For regular travelers, car pooling is the winner. You save money, meet new people, and reduce traffic. For occasional trips where convenience matters most, private drivers deliver comfort and reliability.

Mix both options based on your needs. Neither choice is wrong, it’s about what works for your situation and budget.