City in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Getting around Al Ain
How to get around Al Ain
A car is by far the easiest way around. Taxis and Careem cover the city; intercity buses link to Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Ways to get around Al Ain
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi and Careem | About 15–30 AED for 5 km | Easiest option; book ahead for early flights |
| Local bus | About 2 AED | Hafilat card; infrequent and slow outside the centre |
| Intercity bus to Abu Dhabi or Dubai | About 25–30 AED | 1.5–2 hours; from the Al Ain bus station |
Ride-hailing apps in Al Ain
A 5 km ride costs about Dh15–30 ($4.1–8.2).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Careem | Reliable and cheaper than street taxis for visitors |
| Uber | Available but fewer drivers than Abu Dhabi |
- Metered taxis are fine and cheap for short trips; check the meter is on. Apps are easier for airport and Jebel Hafeet trips.
Arriving in Al Ain
Al Ain International (AAN)
Small airport with few flights; taxi to the centre is about 15–20 min and 40–60 AED.
Abu Dhabi International (AUH)
About 1.5 hours by taxi, 250–350 AED, or intercity bus via Abu Dhabi bus station.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Few rentals and heat discourages them. Cycling is popular in the evening on Jebel Hafeet's road for road cyclists.
- Driving: on the right. Many licences (UK, EU, US, GCC and others) are accepted for rentals; other nationalities need an IDP.
- Onward travel in United Arab Emirates: Intercity buses link Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the northern emirates; most people use taxis, ride-hailing or rental cars. Dubai Metro covers Dubai's main corridor.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Al Ain?
Yes. Apps that work here: Careem, Uber.
What's the best way to get around Al Ain?
A car is by far the easiest way around. Taxis and Careem cover the city; intercity buses link to Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
How do I get from the airport to Al Ain?
Small airport with few flights; taxi to the centre is about 15–20 min and 40–60 AED.
Is Al Ain walkable?
You'll need transport.
More about Al Ain
Going to Al Ain solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Al Ain meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- Roads and Transport Authority (Dubai)
- Abu Dhabi Mobility
- Visit Abu Dhabi: Al Ain
- Visit Al Ain: Getting around
- SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services)
- UAE Government Portal
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.