Best Ways to Travel in Abu Dhabi for Families, Foodies, and Budget Travellers
“Abu Dhabi isn’t just a city—it’s a rhythm. You can hear it in the quiet hum of the air-conditioned buses, the echo of footsteps through its grand malls, and the friendly chatter at Indian cafés serving hot dosas for under AED 10.”
For travellers from India, the GCC, and Europe, Abu Dhabi in the UAE often feels like a mix of modern ease and Middle Eastern tradition. You’ll find futuristic infrastructure, serene deserts, and affordable eateries tucked between luxury hotels. Whether you’re planning family holidays from India to Abu Dhabi, a romantic honeymoon escape from Europe, or a quick GCC weekend trip, figuring out how to get around and where to eat without overspending is half the adventure.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to travel in Abu Dhabi, in the UAE, alongside practical hacks for finding cheap restaurants in Abu Dhabi and the best Indian food Abu Dhabi locals love.
What is transport in Abu Dhabi?
Transportation in Abu Dhabi is a well-planned network of public buses, taxis, ferries, and modern ride-hailing apps. While the city doesn’t yet have a metro like Dubai, buses and taxis connect all major attractions—from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to Yas Island.
For foodies, the joy is in pairing travel routes with culinary stops. Many bus lines pass neighbourhoods like Electra Street and Hamdan Street, where you’ll find some of the best cheap Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi serving pocket-friendly thalis and biryanis.
Why travellers love it
- Indian travellers: Many come for work, holidays, or to visit family. Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi take 3–4 hours, and once here, affordable buses make moving around easy.
- GCC travellers: For Saudis, Omanis, or Kuwaitis on family holidays, Abu Dhabi is a weekend escape where taxis are cheap, and dining is diverse.
- European travellers: Long-stay backpackers and honeymooners adore Abu Dhabi for its mix of affordable transport and access to budget-friendly meals Abu Dhabi offers near Corniche and city markets.
Location and accessibility
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE, located about 150 km west of Dubai.
| Route | From India | From GCC | From Europe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight time | 3–4 hrs (Delhi/Mumbai) | 1–2 hrs (Kuwait, Riyadh, Muscat) | 6–8 hrs (London, Paris, Frankfurt) |
| Airlines | Air India, IndiGo, Etihad | Saudia, Oman Air, Etihad | British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France |
| Visa | Tourist visa required (approx. AED 350) | GCC residents often get visa-free entry | Schengen nationals usually require UAE visa |
| Approx. cost (one-way) | INR 12,000–18,000 (Sep 2025) | AED 400–600 | €350–450 |
Exchange rate: 1 AED ≈ 22 INR ≈ 0.25 EUR ≈ 0.27 USD (approximate as of September 2025, subject to fluctuation)
Best ways to travel in Abu Dhabi
1. Public buses
Abu Dhabi’s public buses are cheap, reliable, and fully air-conditioned.
| Ticket Type | Price (AED) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| One-way trip | 2 AED | Quick city rides |
| Hafilat Smart Card | 30 AED top-up | Regular commuters |
| Weekly pass | 60 AED | Travellers staying 5–7 days |
Tip: Routes E100/E101 connect Abu Dhabi to Dubai. Prices are approximate as of September 2025.
2. Taxis
Metered taxis are abundant.
- Base fare: AED 5
- Cost per km: ~AED 1.82
- Airport to city: AED 70–90
For family holidays from India to Abu Dhabi, taxis are easier when travelling with kids or luggage.
3. Ride-hailing apps
Uber and Careem are popular, especially late nights. Prices are 20–30% higher than taxis.
4. Ferries
For those heading to Delma Island or Al Aliah, ferries cost AED 20–30 per passenger.
5. E-scooters & bikes
Corniche and Reem Island offer bike-sharing schemes for AED 20 per day. Perfect for Europeans seeking eco-friendly travel.
What you can eat while commuting
Transport and food often go hand in hand in Abu Dhabi.
| Area | Best cheap Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi | Average Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Electra Street | Kerala Restaurant, Indian Coffee House | 15–25 |
| Hamdan Street | Biryani Pot, Saravana Bhavan | 20–30 |
| Tourist Club Area | Aryaas, Biryani Specialities | 25–40 |
| Near Bus Terminal | Foodlands, Hot Pot Restaurant | 15–25 |
Travellers on budget-friendly meals in Abu Dhabi searches will love that a thali here costs less than INR 500. Prices are approximate as of September 2025.
Insider travel tips
- Always carry a Hafilat card for buses; cash isn’t accepted.
- For budget restaurants in the UAE, explore smaller eateries in back lanes, not just malls.
- Friday evenings are busy at Indian eateries; plan for early dinners.
- GCC travellers often drive into Abu Dhabi—parking in Corniche is free for the first hour.
- Europeans should know: tipping in restaurants isn’t mandatory, but rounding up to the nearest AED 5 is common.
Nearby attractions and food
After a bus ride, nothing beats a hot dosa or kebab.
- Near Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Indian By Nature (vegetarian favourites).
- At Corniche: Street shawarma stalls with meals under AED 10.
- Yas Island: International chains, but venture to Mussafah for cheap Indian food Abu Dhabi workers swear by.
Good Reads:
Photography and travel tips
- Best photo of Sheikh Zayed Mosque: Sunset (arrive via bus 94).
- For Corniche: Early morning bike rides mean fewer crowds and softer light.
- Always ask before photographing locals in souks.
Seasonal highlights for families, couples, and solo travellers
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Perfect for family holidays, as outdoor buses, bike rides, and Corniche strolls are enjoyable.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Stick to taxis and malls; indoor eateries shine for inexpensive meals in Abu Dhabi.
- Spring & Autumn: Honeymooners love evening ferry rides and affordable seaside dining.
Planning a trip isn’t just about saving money on taxis or finding the cheapest Indian food options Abu Dhabi has to offer. It’s about creating stories. With Eia – Alike’s AI Trip Planner, you can map your Abu Dhabi adventure—whether that’s catching the right bus to Yas Island or finding a budget-friendly thali near Hamdan Street.
Good Reads:
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to travel in Abu Dhabi?
What is the cheapest way to travel in Abu Dhabi?
Where can I find the best cheap Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
Where can I find the best cheap Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
Is Abu Dhabi safe for families and solo travellers from India and Europe?
Is Abu Dhabi safe for families and solo travellers from India and Europe?
How much should I budget for food in Abu Dhabi?
How much should I budget for food in Abu Dhabi?
What’s the best time to visit Abu Dhabi for honeymooners from Europe?
What’s the best time to visit Abu Dhabi for honeymooners from Europe?
Can GCC families drive into Abu Dhabi and rely on public transport?
Can GCC families drive into Abu Dhabi and rely on public transport?
