Travel & Lodging

Travel & Lodging

Flying to Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is based at Abu Dhabi International Airport and connects to most major points of origin. About an hour away, Dubai International Airport provides access to Abu Dhabi via Emirates Airlines. Check with your travel agent about flight transfers between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Getting to Abu Dhabi from Dubai

Abu Dhabi is approximately one hour by car from Dubai. Metered taxis are available to take passengers to Abu Dhabi for approximately AED300 (about US$80). Click here for information about car rentals at Dubai Airport.

Hotels

The Festival partners with the following hotels in Abu Dhabi. Click on the links for more information and reservations.

Most hotels can arrange a pick-up from the airport.

For other lodging options please visit Explore Abu Dhabi’s Where to Stay page.

Getting Around

Driving is the most common mode of transport in the UAE, and the road system in Abu Dhabi is modern and reliable; however, driving is not necessary for Festival visitors. The free Festival Shuttle Bus is a convenient way to travel to all Festival venues. Click here for more information and a schedule and map of the shuttle service.

Taxis are the most efficient way to get around Abu Dhabi. They are well-regulated, reasonably priced and easy to hail at the airport and in most parts of the city. All Festival locations and tourist destinations are easily accessible by taxi.

Al Ghazal and the government-run National Transport Company (NTC) provide door-to-door taxi service. Both companies also provide service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

  • Al Ghazal Express Abu Dhabi   02 444 5885
  • National Transport Company   02 622 3300

Addresses in Abu Dhabi are generally not numbered. When giving a destination to a driver, describe nearby streets, intersections and landmarks (such as major hotels or shopping centers). If you are unsure of the exact location of your destination, call in advance to get directions.

Car Rental

All major car rental companies in are found in Abu Dhabi. Rental companies have booths at the airport and at most major hotels.

To hire a vehicle, you will need a copy of your passport, a credit card and a valid driver’s license from your home country or a valid international driver’s license. If you have a residency visa, you need a valid UAE driver’s license.

Car Rental Companies

 

For more Abu Dhabi travel and tourist information visit Explore Abu Dhabi.