Abu Dhabi Express Bus (AD Express) — Routes, Timings, Fare, Map & Passenger Guide (2025)

The Abu Dhabi Express Bus (AD Express) is a high-speed, non-stop shuttle bus service connecting major suburbs, industrial zones, and worker communities directly to central Abu Dhabi. Designed for commuters and daily travelers, this service ensures faster, more comfortable, and affordable transport into the city without unnecessary stops along the way.

Quick Facts

  • Service Name: Abu Dhabi Express (AD Express)

  • Operator: Abu Dhabi Mobility / Integrated Transport Centre (ITC)

  • Common Route Codes: E-01, E-02, E-05

  • Fare Range: AED 10–12 (cash on boarding)

  • Service Hours: Weekdays 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Weekends & Public Holidays 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM

  • Purpose: Fast, direct, and affordable shuttle between suburbs and Abu Dhabi City

About the Abu Dhabi Express Bus

The Abu Dhabi Express offers a direct connection between key residential and industrial areas of the emirate and central Abu Dhabi. Unlike regular bus routes, AD Express buses skip intermediate stops to reduce travel time, making them ideal for workers and daily commuters. The service was launched to improve public transport accessibility and reduce traffic congestion by providing a comfortable, reliable alternative to private cars.

Routes and Major Stops

The AD Express network currently includes multiple express lines that link different parts of the emirate directly to Abu Dhabi’s central bus terminal.

Main Routes:

  • E-01: Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) ⇄ Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

  • E-02: Worker City ⇄ Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

  • E-05: Suburban Hubs ⇄ Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Representative Stops:

  • ICAD / Mussaffah Industrial Area

  • Al Mafraq / Worker City

  • Bani Yas

  • Al Shahama

  • Khalifa City

  • Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

(The exact stops and schedules may vary depending on the route.)

Abu Dhabi Express Bus Routes, Timings & Frequency

Route Origin → Destination Via / Coverage Area Frequency Operating Hours
E-01 Industrial City Abu Dhabi (ICAD) → Abu Dhabi Main Bus Station Via Musaffah region Every 25 mins (10 mins during peak hours) Weekdays: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Weekends/Public Holidays: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM
E-02 Mussafah (Emirates Driving Company) → Abu Dhabi Main Bus Station Direct Route Every 25 mins (10 mins during peak hours) Weekdays: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Weekends/Public Holidays: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM
E-03 Al Shaabiah Bus Station (Mussafah City) → Abu Dhabi Main Bus Station Direct Route Every 25 mins (10 mins during peak hours) Weekdays: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Weekends/Public Holidays: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM
E-04 Safeer Mall (Khalifa City) → Abu Dhabi Main Bus Station Direct Route Every 25 mins (10 mins during peak hours) Weekdays: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Weekends/Public Holidays: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Additional Notes:

  • All Abu Dhabi Express Buses operate in both directions (to and from Abu Dhabi City).

  • Buses are air-conditioned, Wi-Fi enabled, and support Hafilat card payment only.

  • Designed for limited-stop, high-speed service, reducing travel time between Abu Dhabi and nearby suburbs.

Fare, Tickets, and Payment

Abu Dhabi Express services operate on a cash payment system, allowing passengers to pay upon boarding. The typical one-way fare ranges from AED 10 to AED 12, depending on the route. Passengers are advised to carry small change for convenience.

Facilities on Board

  • Air-conditioned, comfortable buses

  • Dedicated seating for commuters

  • Wheelchair-accessible entry (on selected buses)

  • Non-stop travel for shorter journey time

  • Priority boarding and well-marked pickup points

Passenger Tips

  • Arrive 5–10 minutes early, as the buses run on a fixed schedule and do not stop in between.

  • Carry small cash denominations for quick fare payment.

  • Expect higher passenger traffic during early morning and late afternoon peak hours.

  • Keep essential belongings close as the buses do not have long dwell times at stations.

  • For workers and industrial commuters, specific express routes operate from worker accommodations to city terminals.

Alternative Bus Options

If AD Express routes do not serve your area, you can use regular Abu Dhabi intercity or local buses that operate through multiple stops. These standard routes connect smaller neighborhoods to central hubs and can be used alongside the AD Express network for flexible travel options.

Future Plans and Developments

Abu Dhabi Mobility continues to expand the AD Express network, adding more routes and upgrading the bus fleet to enhance commuter experience. Future plans include route extensions, improved frequency, and eco-friendly buses to support sustainable urban transport across the emirate.

Conclusion

The Abu Dhabi Express Bus (AD Express) is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to travel between suburban areas and the capital city. With direct routes, comfortable seating, and extended service hours, it’s a preferred choice for thousands of daily commuters and visitors. For the most accurate timings and route updates, always check the latest information displayed at your nearest bus station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the fare for the Abu Dhabi Express bus?
Fares vary by route but typically range between AED 10 and AED 12 per person, payable in cash when boarding.

Q2: What are the Abu Dhabi Express operating hours?
Buses generally operate 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM on weekends and public holidays.

Q3: Are Abu Dhabi Express buses non-stop?
Yes. All AD Express buses travel directly between the starting and destination points without intermediate stops.

Q4: Where can I find the official timetable?
You can view up-to-date timetables and route information at your nearest bus station or through official transport information displays across Abu Dhabi.