Asia > United Arab Emirates > Abu Dhabi (AUH)
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Abu Dhabi can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Abu Dhabi ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Abu Dhabi ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Abu Dhabi?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🚗 Why Renting a Car Works Well in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi stretches across islands, long boulevards, and wide highways. Because of this, a car gives you flexibility. You can move between the main attractions quickly, and you can reach remote beaches and desert areas easily.
🌟 Renting a Car Makes Sense If:
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You want to visit several major sights in one day
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You’re staying on Yas Island or Saadiyat Island
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You plan to drive into the desert for dunes or resorts
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You like complete freedom over timing
Additionally, the roads are modern and well-maintained. Parking is usually available, and fuel prices are low. Driving is straightforward once you get used to large roundabouts and wide lanes.
🚕 Why You Might Prefer Going Car-Free
However, you can still enjoy Abu Dhabi without renting a car, especially if you’re visiting for a short break. Taxis are plentiful, clean, air-conditioned, and reasonably priced. Because of this, many travellers choose to rely on taxis instead of navigating the city themselves.
💡 Going Car-Free Works Well If:
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You’re mainly visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Corniche, Louvre Abu Dhabi, or Qasr Al Watan
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You’re staying in a central hotel and don’t plan to roam far
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You prefer simple point-to-point travel
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You like guided desert tours that include transport
Additionally, Abu Dhabi is quieter than Dubai, so you will not struggle to find taxis quickly. They run 24/7 and reach every major area.
🚆 What About Public Transport?
Abu Dhabi’s buses are clean, reliable, and cheap. However, they work best for residents, not visitors. Routes can be long, and walking in the heat might be tough. Because of this, most travellers choose taxis, rideshares, or a rental car instead.
🧭 Quick Decision Table
| Your Travel Style | Car Needed? |
|---|---|
| Short city break | ❌ No |
| Mosque, Corniche, Louvre, Qasr Al Watan | ❌ No |
| Staying on Yas Island without exploring widely | ❌ No |
| Multi-stop sightseeing across islands | ✅ Yes |
| Desert resorts, dunes, or remote beaches | ✅ Yes |
🎯 Final Verdict — Should You Rent a Car in Abu Dhabi?
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🚫 Skip the car if you’re visiting for a weekend, staying central, or planning to see only the major attractions. Taxis and tours will keep everything simple and efficient.
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✅ Rent a car if you want freedom. It’s ideal for exploring islands, checking off lots of landmarks, or heading deep into the desert.
🌅 In short, should you rent a car in Abu Dhabi? Choose taxis for convenience, or rent a car for independence — both options work beautifully depending on your plans.
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