How to get around Abu Dhabi without a car?

When people first arrive in Abu Dhabi, they often assume a car is essential. Wide roads, fast traffic, and long blocks give that impression. But once you explore a bit, you begin to see how well-connected the city is for non-drivers, especially if you understand how to use its public and private transport systems.

Whether you’re commuting to work from Al Nahyan to Khalifa City or heading out for a weekend trip to Yas Mall, there’s a network of reliable options that can get you there—no need to worry about parking or traffic fines.

The public bus system covers almost everything

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport operates a city-wide bus network that’s extensive and fairly punctual. Buses run on clearly marked routes with timetables posted at most stops. They cover not just downtown but also suburbs like Mussafah, Al Mafraq, and even out to Al Ain.

What you need to ride is a Hafilat card, a reloadable smart fare card that allows you to tap in and out on any public bus. If you miss a tap, you get charged the maximum fare—so keeping the habit matters.

Most locals and residents find the buses comfortable, clean, and air-conditioned. Some expats who lived in Ankara or İzmir say the Abu Dhabi bus system feels just as structured and far more climate-friendly in summer months.

Taxis are more accessible than you think

You might think taxis in Abu Dhabi are a luxury, but they’re widely available and strictly regulated. Taxis are operated by TransAD, and all are metered with uniform rates. They accept card payments, and drivers usually speak at least basic English.

Taxis can be hailed from the street, booked through the Abu Dhabi Taxi app, or found outside malls, hospitals, and hotels. The convenience of taxis becomes clear when you’re in a rush or when buses aren’t running, especially late at night.

Also, there are special pink-roof taxis driven by women, available for female passengers or families who prefer a gender-specific option. These are especially popular among Turkish families visiting or living in Abu Dhabi.

Digital ride-hailing platforms are everywhere

Just like in Istanbul or Bursa, ride-hailing apps are deeply integrated into Abu Dhabi’s daily life. Careem and Uber both operate across the city, and their drivers usually arrive within minutes.

These platforms offer tiered options—from economy rides to luxury sedans—so you can choose depending on your needs. Prices vary by time of day and location, but most expats say they’re worth the convenience when the weather is hot or time is tight.

The apps support Arabic, English, and even Turkish, and offer customer support through chat or call. What makes them especially useful is the ability to share your live route with someone, which helps friends or family follow your trip.

Walking is possible—but not always ideal

While some parts of Abu Dhabi are pedestrian-friendly—especially areas like the Corniche, Yas Island, and Saadiyat Cultural District—the city is not designed primarily for walking. Distances between buildings can be long, and during summer, high temperatures make walking difficult.

Still, in winter, many residents walk to work or take long seaside strolls. Dedicated walking paths line the Corniche, and island communities have shaded areas and pedestrian bridges.

If you’re staying in places like Al Zahiyah or Al Bateen, walking to nearby markets or cafes can be pleasant, especially during the cooler months. But always bring water, sunglasses, and wear breathable clothing—even short walks can feel intense under the Abu Dhabi sun.

Bicycles and e-scooters are gaining popularity

New developments like Al Reem Island and Al Hudayriyat have invested heavily in bike lanes and e-scooter programs. These areas are ideal for short-distance travel without a car.

Careem offers bike rentals through their app, where you can unlock a bicycle at one station and leave it at another. The system works well for errands, coffee runs, or scenic rides.

E-scooters are also becoming more common, especially in and around tourist-heavy areas. However, riding outside designated zones can lead to fines, and helmets are required. So it’s best to use these options for casual travel, not for your main commute.

Water taxis offer scenic alternatives

Few people know about Abu Dhabi’s water transport system, which includes water taxis and ferries between the mainland and nearby islands. They’re run by the Integrated Transport Centre and offer a refreshing way to travel—especially when traffic gets dense on bridges.

The most scenic route is between Al Marina and Al Hudayriyat. Tickets are sold at terminals or through the Darbi app. You can even carry a bicycle onboard, combining modes for a more flexible journey.

This hybrid travel style is gaining popularity among residents who want a less stressful, more scenic commute, especially on weekends.

Car rentals without owning

If you occasionally need a car—maybe for a weekend trip to Dubai or a grocery run—short-term car rentals are an excellent solution. Apps like ekar and Udrive allow you to rent cars by the minute or hour.

You can pick up the car from a nearby parking area and return it anywhere in the city. It’s a system similar to Istanbul’s MOOV, and ideal for those who don’t want to deal with insurance, maintenance, or long-term costs.

Just keep in mind that you’ll need a valid driving license and Emirates ID to register. For tourists, an international driving permit may be required depending on your nationality.

Public transport apps make everything easier

Abu Dhabi’s Darbi app is a must-have. It shows real-time bus schedules, route maps, and estimated arrival times. You can also use it to plan multi-modal trips involving buses, taxis, and water transport.

Another useful app is the Hafilat app, which helps you monitor your card balance, top up fares, and track your trip history. Together, these apps form the backbone of the city’s smart mobility system.

Many Turkish expats say these apps feel more intuitive than those used in Turkish cities, particularly because of clear English menus, visual maps, and quick load times.

The system rewards consistency

According to the www.few.ae editörü, residents who use public transport regularly tend to adopt more sustainable and cost-effective habits. They also become more familiar with seasonal changes in routes, such as increased services during Ramadan or National Day celebrations.

The city actively promotes public transport through campaigns, free ride days, and special bus services during major events. So even if you’re not a daily commuter, you’ll benefit from understanding how these systems work.

Abu Dhabi may seem like a driver’s city at first, but once you explore its transit systems, you realize how well it supports non-drivers, especially those willing to plan ahead and embrace flexible options. From sea to land to app, mobility here is more than wheels—it’s freedom.