Express Bus X90: High-Speed Bus from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain

The Express Bus X90 is a direct, high-speed intercity service connecting Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Al Nahyan) with Al Ain Central Bus Station. Covering more than 150 km in around 2 hours, the X90 is designed for commuters, students, families, and weekend travelers who want a fast, reliable alternative to driving. The route features limited stops, modern coaches, and premium onboard amenities, as detailed by sources such as Emirates Inside and Moovit.

Route Overview and Key Stops

The X90 departs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station on Al Wahda Street and travels primarily along the E22 highway, ensuring minimal delays and consistent travel times. The final stop is Al Ain Central Bus Station, located next to Al Ain Mall.

Only a few strategic highway junctions are used as brief stops, allowing the bus to maintain an average speed of about 75 km/h. Depending on traffic conditions, the total journey time ranges from 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, according to schedules published by Rent a Cheap Car Dubai and updates shared by Capital Express.

X90 Bus Timetable (2025)

The X90 operates daily with hourly departures, making it easy to plan both early-morning and late-night trips.

Abu Dhabi to Al Ain

• First bus: 6:45 AM (arrives around 8:55 AM)
• Hourly departures throughout the day
• Last bus: 10:45 PM (arrives around 12:55 AM)

Al Ain to Abu Dhabi

• First bus: 5:00 AM (arrives around 7:00 AM)
• Hourly departures all day
• Last bus: 11:45 PM (arrives around 1:45 AM)

On Fridays, services from Al Ain start earlier to accommodate weekend travel demand. Full schedules are confirmed by Emirates Inside and Moovit.

Onboard Comfort and Amenities

The X90 is positioned as a premium inter-emirate bus service. Coaches feature wide reclining seats, panoramic windows, and generous luggage storage with a 20 kg allowance per passenger. Most buses are equipped with onboard restrooms, which is a key benefit for long-distance travel.

In 2025, several upgrades were introduced, including free WiFi, USB and power outlets at every seat, and individual entertainment screens on select coaches. Air-conditioning is maintained at approximately 22°C, ensuring comfort even during peak summer heat, as noted by Emirates Inside and related transport sources.

Ticket Prices and Booking Options

Fares for the X90 remain affordable compared to private transport:

• AED 25 for a one-way standard ticket
• AED 20 with a Hafilat card
• AED 45 for a round trip

Tickets can be purchased through the DARB app, at station kiosks, or online via capitalexpressuae.com. During peak weekends, a AED 5 surcharge may apply. Children under five travel free, while students and seniors receive a 20% discount with valid ID, according to fare details listed on UAE Bus Timing.

Reliability, Frequency, and Service Updates

Operated by Capital Express, the X90 saw significant improvements in 2025. Peak-hour frequency was increased to every 30 minutes between 7–10 AM and 4–7 PM, expanding overall capacity by 25%.

Real-time GPS tracking, SMS service alerts, and live occupancy data are available through the DARB app. According to Moovit, the route maintains an on-time performance rate of around 95%. New low-emission coaches have also reduced average travel time by approximately 10 minutes compared to the older fleet.

Passenger Feedback and Travel Tips

Regular riders highlight the X90’s convenience for university travel, weekend family trips, and shopping visits between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The spacious luggage compartments and predictable schedules are often mentioned as standout features.

Helpful tips from frequent passengers:

• Arrive 20 minutes early at central stations for better seat selection
• Travel between 9:00 and 11:00 AM for quieter, less crowded buses
• Choose upper-deck seating when available for clearer highway views
• Use the DARB app to check live bus occupancy before boarding

The Express Bus X90 reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader investment in efficient, modern public transport, offering a dependable link between two major cities while serving a wide range of daily and weekend travel needs, as outlined by Abu Dhabi Mobility.