1. Take an airport transfer

Several popular islands are connected to the mainland by bridges, and getting there by car directly from Zayed International Airport is easy. Airport transfers can be pre-booked through Blacklane, Transfeero or Emirates, giving you a smooth ride to Yas Island or the Corniche for around AED 99-200, depending on your chosen provider and vehicle.

For a more budget-friendly option, travellers can also take the A1 airport bus to the Central Bus Station for just AED 4 – a perfect way to start your journey if you’re exploring Saadiyat or planning to connect to other public routes.

2. Hop in a silver taxi

3. Ride the tourist shuttle

4. Board a blue bus

5. Set sail on a water taxi or ferry

6. Take a traditional abra

7. Hire a car

8. Charter a seaplane

9. Walk, ride or pedal, island-style

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FAQs about transportation

If you’re arriving from Dubai, getting to Abu Dhabi’s islands is still a breeze. Buses from Abu Dhabi’s Central Bus Station and Mussafah connect to Dubai for just AED 25, with stops at Ibn Battuta or Al Ghubaiba. From there, taxis or ride-hailing apps can take you straight to places like Yas or Saadiyat.

Yas Island is about 30 kilometres (18 miles) east of central Abu Dhabi. From Zayed International Airport, it takes around 10 minutes by taxi; from the downtown area, expect the trip to last 25–30 minutes.


Public transport options like buses or the free Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle may take a bit longer, but offer affordable and scenic alternatives.