
Abu Dhabi Airport Bus Guide: Routes A1, A2, A10 & N2 Schedules
Arriving at Zayed International Airport? Save money with our complete guide to Abu Dhabi's airport buses. From the 24/7 A2 Express to the cultural A10 route, find the perfect link to the city for just AED 4.
By Rifat Hossain
Abu Dhabi Airport Transport: Routes A1, A2, A10 & N2
Zayed International Airport (AUH) is connected to the city by a robust, affordable, and air-conditioned bus network operated by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). Whether you are heading to the city center, Saadiyat Island, or connecting to Dubai, the abu dhabi airport bus service offers a seamless journey for a fraction of the cost of a taxi.
This guide details the four primary routes—A1, A2, A10, and N2—helping you choose the fastest connection, understand the Hafilat payment system, and locate the terminal a abu dhabi bus stops.
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Quick Route Overview
Navigating the airport's transport options is simple when you know the key routes. All internal city routes cost a flat rate of AED 4.
| Route | Destination | Operating Hours | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Al Zahiyah / Saadiyat Island | 6:00 AM – 12:01 AM | Hotel guests & Tourists |
| A2 | Khalifa Street (City Center) | 24/7 (24 Hours) | Express City Access |
| A10 | MBZ City Bus Station | 5:00 AM – 11:30 PM | Cultural Sightseeing |
| N2 | Al Zahiyah | 12:01 AM – 5:59 AM | Overnight Arrivals |
| E102 | Al Jafiliya (Dubai) | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Direct Dubai Connection |
Route A1: Al Zahiyah & Saadiyat Connection
The abu dhabi bus a1 is the primary shuttle for tourists, offering direct connections to major luxury hotels on Saadiyat Island before terminating in downtown Al Zahiyah.
- Departure: Terminal A (Lower Curbside).
- Key Stops: Saadiyat Island Hotels (Jumeirah, Park Hyatt, Rixos), Electra Park, ADNEC.
- Frequency: Regular intervals (Increased during 7–9 AM and 4–7 PM peaks).
- Journey Time: 50–60 minutes.
Travel Tip: If you are staying at a resort on Saadiyat Island, the A1 is the most direct public transport option, dropping you near major hotel entrances.
Route A2: The 24/7 Express Service
The abu dhabi bus a2 is the workhorse of the airport network. It is the only route that operates 24 hours a day, providing an express link to the Central Bus Station.
- Departure: Terminal A.
- Destination: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Khalifa Street).
- Frequency: Every 60 minutes, round-the-clock.
- Journey Time: 40–45 minutes (Fastest option).
This route is ideal for business travelers or residents needing to reach the abu dhabi bus station to zayed international airport quickly without intermediate scenic stops.
Route A10: The Cultural Scenic Route
For a scenic introduction to the capital, the abu dhabi bus a10 connects the airport to Mohamed Bin Zayed (MBZ) City, passing iconic landmarks.
- Departure: Terminal A.
- Key Highlights: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Capital Mall, Burjeel Medical City.
- Operating Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:30 PM.
- Journey Time: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes.
Why choose A10? It is the perfect budget option for tourists wanting to visit the Grand Mosque directly from the airport before checking into their accommodation.
Route N2: The Overnight Lifeline
If your flight lands after midnight, the abu dhabi bus n2 ensures you are not stranded. It takes over when the A1 stops running.
- Operating Window: 12:01 AM – 5:59 AM.
- Route: Terminal A to Al Zahiyah (Downtown).
- Frequency: Regular intervals during night hours.
- Fare: AED 4.
How to Pay: The Hafilat Card
Cash is NOT accepted on any Abu Dhabi public bus. You must purchase a Hafilat Card before boarding.
- Where to Buy: Ticket counters and vending machines at Terminal A arrivals.
- Cost: AED 10 (Card fee) + AED 4 (Minimum balance).
- Fare: A flat rate of AED 4 applies to routes A1, A2, A10, and N2.
Important: For the E102 intercity bus to Dubai, you can use either a Hafilat Card or a Dubai Nol Card (Fare: AED 25).
Bus Stop Locations & Facilities
All airport buses depart from the Lower Curbside at Terminal A. Look for the blue and white DoT signage.
- Facilities: Air-conditioned waiting areas, seating, and digital route displays.
- Accessibility: Ground-level access suitable for luggage trolleys and wheelchairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a bus from Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai?
Yes, Route E102 departs from Terminal A to Al Jafiliya Bus Station in Dubai. It runs hourly from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM and costs AED 25.
Can I pay cash to the driver?
No, drivers cannot accept cash. You must tap a valid Hafilat card upon entry.
Which bus runs after midnight?
Route A2 runs 24 hours a day, and Route N2 operates specifically from 12:01 AM to 6:00 AM to cover the overnight gap left by other routes.
Your Next Commute Step
Arriving at Terminal A soon? Head straight to the Hafilat Vending Machine in the Arrivals Hall. Purchase a card with AED 20 credit—this covers your airport transfer (AED 4) and leaves plenty of balance for exploring the city or visiting the Grand Mosque on Route A10 later.
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