At 5:20 AM, just before sunrise, travelers gather outside the glass facade of Ibn Battuta Bus Station.
Some are business flyers heading for morning departures at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Others are tourists with luggage stacked neatly beside them, phones in hand checking the RTA app.
The E101 intercity bus hums quietly nearby, ready to cover the 130 kilometers separating Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
For anyone planning this journey, understanding the bus timings, ticket prices, and route details is more than just convenience.
It can mean the difference between a calm airport arrival and a last-minute rush. This guide offers every detail you need to plan your trip confidently, from real schedules to practical travel tips.
Overview of The Route From Ibn Battuta To Abu Dhabi Airport
The E101 is one of the UAE’s most dependable intercity services, operated by the RTA in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Transport.
It connects two major cities with efficiency and comfort, making it a preferred option for travelers who value punctuality and affordability.
Here’s what makes the route stand out:
- Starting Point: Ibn Battuta Bus Station, located right next to the Ibn Battuta Metro Station on Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Route Path: The bus follows the E11 highway, one of the UAE’s busiest and most scenic routes, giving travelers both speed and views.
- Primary Stop: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
- Final Leg: From there, travelers can take a short taxi or bus ride to Abu Dhabi International Airport.
If you’ve driven the route before, you know how unpredictable traffic can get near Jebel Ali or Ghantoot.
Taking the E101 eliminates that stress because the service maintains consistent timing and dedicated bus lanes along key stretches.
When I first used this route, I was skeptical about whether a bus could stay on time during rush hour. After reaching Abu Dhabi 10 minutes earlier than expected, I realized it was often faster than private taxis at peak times.
E101 Bus Schedule: Ibn Battuta to Abu Dhabi Airport
The E101 schedule is designed for both commuters and travelers. The RTA plans its frequency around typical flight windows and rush-hour patterns, which means you can rely on it even when the roads are busy.
Weekdays (Monday to Friday)
- First Bus: 5:30 AM
- Last Bus: 11:30 PM
- Peak Hours: 6:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–8:00 PM (every 30 minutes)
- Off-Peak Hours: Every 45–60 minutes
- Average Journey: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
During weekdays, early buses are popular among professionals and frequent flyers. If you have a morning flight, plan to catch a bus at least three and a half hours before your departure time.
Weekends (Saturday and Sunday)
- First Bus: 6:00 AM
- Last Bus: 11:00 PM
- Frequency: Every 45 minutes throughout the day
Weekend mornings often have higher demand as families and tourists travel to Abu Dhabi for leisure. If you prefer a quieter ride, midday departures between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM are ideal.
Pro Tip: Always double-check your timing using the RTA Dubai app, which gives live bus tracking and updated frequency.
Ibn Battuta To Abu Dhabi Bus Timings Today
As of today, the E101 operates every 30 to 45 minutes between 5:30 AM and 11:30 PM. You can check the next departure in real time through the RTA Dubai app, the RTA website, or even Google Maps’ transit tab.
For example, if you take the 8:00 PM bus from Ibn Battuta, you’ll reach Abu Dhabi Central Station at around 9:45 PM. This gives you enough time for a quick transfer and airport check-in before a late-night flight.
Ticket Fare
In 2025, the E101 continues to offer one of the lowest travel costs between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
| Passenger Type | Cash Fare (AED) | Nol Card Fare (AED) |
| Adult | 30–35 | 25–30 |
| Student | 20–25 | 18–22 |
| Senior (60+) | 20–25 | 18–22 |
How to Save on Fares?
- Use your Nol Card to enjoy discounted fares and faster boarding.
- Recharge your card using the RTA app or at any metro station.
- Keep AED 10–20 in cash for the local Abu Dhabi airport connection, as Nol cards are not accepted there.
- Students and seniors should always carry ID to avail of special fares.
When I switched from cash to an Nol card, I saved around AED 10 per round trip, which quickly adds up if you travel often.
Journey Duration
Travel time between Ibn Battuta and Abu Dhabi Central Station averages 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Light Traffic (early morning): 1 hour 15 minutes
- Normal Conditions: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
- Peak Hours: Up to 2 hours
Add another 15 to 20 minutes for the airport connection, which makes the total journey roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
During a test trip in March 2025, I took the 6:00 AM bus from Ibn Battuta and arrived at Terminal 3 by 8:05 AM, with time to spare before a 10:00 AM flight.
Transfer and Connection at Abu Dhabi
Once the E101 reaches Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, connecting to the airport is straightforward.
Option 1: Airport Bus
- Route: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Airport Terminals 1, 2, and 3
- Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes
- Cost: AED 4–6
- Duration: 15–20 minutes
- Availability: 24 hours
Option 2: Taxi or Ride-Hailing
- Fare: AED 40–60
- Duration: 10–15 minutes
- Services: Uber, Careem, or standard taxis
- Ideal For: Travelers with heavy luggage or tight schedules
The local bus connection is usually on time and convenient, while taxis offer flexibility for late-night or group travel.
Payment Options
E101 buses accept multiple payment methods, making travel easy for both residents and visitors.
Accepted Methods
- Nol Card: The most convenient and cost-effective option.
- Contactless Bank Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted on most buses.
- Cash: Still accepted, but exact change is recommended.
- RTA Dubai App: Useful for topping up your Nol card or checking schedules.
| Payment Method | Convenience | Discount | Availability |
| Nol Card | High | Yes | Metro and bus stations |
| Contactless Card | High | No | Most RTA buses |
| Cash | Medium | No | Ticket counters |
Before leaving Dubai, make sure your Nol card balance is at least AED 50 to cover both your trip and return.
Alternative Transport Options
Although the E101 bus is the most economical, you can choose other transport modes depending on your schedule and preferences.
1. Taxis
- Cost: AED 280–350
- Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
- Best For: Direct, door-to-door service any time of day.
2. Uber and Careem
- Cost: AED 240–320
- Advantages: GPS tracking, digital payment, and multiple car options.
3. Private Transfers
- Cost: AED 400–600
- Ideal For: Business travelers or families who want guaranteed comfort.
4. Car Rentals
- Cost: AED 150–300 per day plus fuel
- Requirements: UAE or international driving license
- Best For: Travelers planning multiple stops or overnight stays.
5. Shared Taxi Vans
- Cost: AED 80–120 per person
- Availability: Booked through authorized transport companies.
| Option | Cost (AED) | Duration | Comfort | Best For |
| E101 Bus | 25–35 | 1.5–2 hrs | Moderate | Budget travel |
| Taxi | 280–350 | 1.25–1.75 hrs | High | Convenience |
| Uber/Careem | 240–320 | 1.25–1.75 hrs | High | App-based rides |
| Private Transfer | 400–600 | 1–1.5 hrs | Premium | Business or families |
| Car Rental | 150–300/day | 1–1.5 hrs | High | Independent travelers |
Travel Tips For a Smooth Journey
- Check the RTA app before leaving home for live updates.
- Avoid peak hours when possible to reduce travel time.
- Carry water, snacks, and a power bank for longer journeys.
- Board early to choose your preferred seat.
- Keep travel documents and NOL cards handy.
- Dress comfortably because the air-conditioning can feel cool on long rides.
These small habits help you travel with confidence and arrive relaxed.
Final Words
For anyone who values reliability and affordability, the E101 bus from Ibn Battuta to Abu Dhabi Airport is one of the UAE’s best public transport options. It’s well-maintained, punctual, and easy to navigate even for first-time travelers.
The service proves that budget travel in the Emirates can still feel efficient and comfortable. By planning ahead, checking schedules, and using an Nol card, you can reach Abu Dhabi Airport on time and with money to spare.
FAQs
What time does the first bus leave from Ibn Battuta?
The first E101 bus leaves at 5:30 AM on weekdays and 6:00 AM on weekends.
How long does it take to reach Abu Dhabi Airport?
The total travel time is usually between 2 and 2.5 hours, including the airport transfer.
Can I use my Nol Card on Abu Dhabi buses?
Yes, it works for the Dubai leg of the trip, but you’ll need cash or a local card for Abu Dhabi internal routes.
Are there night buses available?
The last E101 departs around 11:30 PM. For later flights, consider using Uber, Careem, or a taxi.
Also Read: Bus 27 Dubai: Route Details, Timetable & Fare Information