How long does it take to drive from Abu Dhabi Airport to downtown?
The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.
Discover the convenience and reliability of U-Save Car Rental in Abu Dhabi, your premier choice for affordable and hassle-free car rentals. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city or venturing into the breathtaking deserts, U-Save offers a wide selection of well-maintained vehicles to suit your needs. With competitive rates, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to making your journey smooth and enjoyable, U-Save ensures you get the best value for your money. Choose U-Save Car Rental in Abu Dhabi for a seamless and satisfying travel experience.
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Before you rent:
Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.
When you collect your Vehicle:
Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.
Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.
Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.
While you rent:
Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.
When you return your vehicle:
Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.
Drive on the right side of the road
United Arab Emirates Dirham is the local currency
Average temperatures are 64°F (18°C) - 96°F (36°C)
The airport is located approximately 30 km (18.5 miles) from Abu Dhabi city center, and the drive usually takes 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. The main route is via E20 and E10 highways, both of which are wide and fast-moving.
Driving in Abu Dhabi offers smooth and modern infrastructure, with well-maintained highways and clear signage in English and Arabic. You drive on the right-hand side, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. The roads are heavily monitored by speed cameras, and fines for violations are high. Speed limits are clearly posted and generally range from 60–80 km/h (37–50 mph) in urban zones, and 100–140 km/h (62–87 mph) on highways.
It’s essential to respect lane discipline, avoid sudden lane changes, and always use indicators. The use of mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited unless using a hands-free device. Local drivers may be aggressive or fast-paced, so stay alert, especially in roundabouts and merging lanes.
Drinking and driving is strictly illegal and zero-tolerance is enforced. Road conditions are excellent, and parking is available throughout the city, including public lots, underground garages, and street meters (often requiring a prepaid SMS or app-based system).
Fuel is affordable and stations are easy to find, often open 24/7. If you're planning to explore the desert or go off-road, consider renting a 4WD vehicle, but for city driving and inter-emirate travel, a compact or standard car is sufficient.
Renting a car at Abu Dhabi Airport unlocks easy access to the country’s top destinations:
Dubai – ~1.5 hours north via E11 highway
Al Ain – historic oasis city ~1.5 hours inland
Liwa Oasis – for a desert escape in the Empty Quarter
Sharjah and Ajman – cultural and seaside alternatives to Dubai
Jebel Hafeet – scenic mountain road and hot springs
Yas Island – family-friendly attractions like Ferrari World, just 15 minutes from the airport
With excellent roads and short distances, a car makes multi-city trips in the UAE smooth and efficient.
We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even a luxury car – we got you!
Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather.
Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans.
Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.
All our rental cars are environmentally friendly, and well-equipped. We are happy to help you choose the right vehicle or with any other questions you have in mind.
Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!
How long does it take to drive from Abu Dhabi Airport to downtown?
The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.
Is driving in Abu Dhabi easy for tourists?
Yes, roads are wide and well-marked. Navigation is straightforward, but be prepared for fast traffic and sudden lane changes from locals.
What kind of car should I rent in Abu Dhabi?
A compact or midsize car is ideal for city travel. Choose a 4WD only if planning desert excursions or long-distance road trips across the Emirates.
Is car rental expensive in Abu Dhabi?
Car rental is competitively priced. U-Save often offers great deals and promotions, especially for weekly rentals. Gasoline is also very affordable.
Is it safe to drive in the UAE?
Yes, very safe! Roads are high quality, and traffic regulations are enforced. However, defensive driving is important due to the fast pace.
What side of the road do they drive on in the UAE?
Driving is on the right-hand side.
Can I drive to Dubai or other Emirates with my rental car?
Yes, driving between Emirates is allowed and very common. Just ensure your rental agreement includes inter-emirate travel and insurance coverage.