How to Navigate around Abu Dhabi - Best Ways to Get Around during a Holiday in Abu Dhabi

As one of the region's leading business trip hotspots and travel destinations, Abu Dhabi welcomes visitors from around the world. Renowned for its top-class attractions and recreational highlights, the capital of the United Arab Emirates is also well-connected in terms of public transport options for travellers. From hopping on taxis to using the metro, here are the most convenient ways to get around during a trip to the dynamic metropolis.

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Secure a Convenient Base

Those who are travelling to the Emirati capital for business or on vacation should first and foremost consider their base in the city. Whether one chooses the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi or any other resort, the benefits of securing a strategic hotel cannot be overstated. Finding a venue that's close to some of the best attractions and the things to do in Abu Dhabi can make a huge difference for holidaymakers who are planning on being in the city for a short period or a weekend. 

Taxis

In Abu Dhabi, taxi services are easily accessible through apps for both locals and travellers, making them one of the best means of transportation in the city. Some of the most frequently used taxi booking apps in Abu Dhabi are Careem and Uber where vehicles can arrive at the appointed location within 10 minutes of making the booking. Those who need larger vehicles such as minivans or vehicles that can accommodate wheelchair-bound tourists can also select the type of vehicle during the taxi reservation process. Hailing cabs from Abu Dhabi's roadside is also not difficult as yellow and silver coloured roofs separate taxis from private vehicles. 

Hop on the Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus

Budget travellers looking for an affordable way to hit the major sights and shopping hotspots in Abu Dhabi on a single journey can use the Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus service. These air-conditioned and wheelchair-accessible buses make pit stops at some of the city's biggest attractions, cultural sites and hotels and travel across 8 popular routes to the convenience of travellers. Apart from exploring the city centre of Abu Dhabi, the shuttle bus service can also be employed to go sightseeing on Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, the Grand Canal region and Jubail Island. 

Public Bus Services

As one of the most cost-effective means of public transport available in Abu Dhabi, the public bus network in the city also covers major ground in terms of tourist highlights and commercial areas. Visitors can purchase the Hafilat Smart Card to pay for public bus rides as well as to pay for goods at local convenience stores and even shopping malls. 

Rental Car

Those with an international driving license can also rent a car for the duration of their stay in Abu Dhabi, especially if the holiday is longer than 2 weeks. There are a wide variety of rental companies and car rental packages to choose from, which not only includes maintenance and road assistance but also insurance policies. Driving around Abu Dhabi is not as challenging as driving in Oman or its neighbouring countries as the paid parking system and road rules in the city are generally followed by citizens and expats. 

Bike Around

Cycle rentals are also quite common in Abu Dhabi where one can rent a bike via the Careem Bike app. With nearly fifty bike-share stations available throughout the country, it is a great way to see the city at your own pace and on your own set of wheels. There are daily, weekly and monthly bike rental packages accessible through the app while tourists can also choose and rent mountain bikes and particular bike brands from Fun Ride Sports. Additionally, cycling in Abu Dhabi not only provides a convenient mode of transportation but also allows visitors to explore the city's modern architecture, beautiful waterfronts, and picturesque landscapes, making it a memorable and eco-friendly way to experience the UAE's capital.