The Abu Dhabi Link bus has changed how residents and visitors move around the capital. Designed for flexibility rather than fixed routes, this on-demand service bridges the gap between traditional buses and private transport, making short trips within key areas easier and more predictable. As Abu Dhabi continues to expand, the link bus plays an important role in last-mile connectivity across the city.
In this guide, know all about:
- What is Abu Dhabi Link Bus (bus on demand)?
- Service zones and coverage area
- Operating hours
- Pricing and fare structure
- How to book and ride the bus
- Payment methods
- Comparison: Abu Dhabi Link bus vs regular public buses
- Limitations and tips
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
What is Abu Dhabi Link bus (bus on demand)?
The Abu Dhabi Link bus is an on-demand public transport service launched by the Integrated Transport Centre under Abu Dhabi Mobility. Instead of following fixed routes, the service allows passengers to request a ride through a mobile app, making everyday travel more adaptable to real needs.
Unlike conventional buses, the link bus operates using virtual stops. These are designated pick-up and drop-off points selected by the system based on proximity, ensuring smoother routing while reducing unnecessary detours. The service runs only within predefined zones, which helps maintain efficiency and shorter wait times.
This on-demand approach complements the wider public transport network and supports residents who live slightly away from main bus corridors. It also connects well with larger hubs such as the central bus interchange that serves Abu Dhabi’s main bus routes, allowing smoother transfers between services.
Service zones and coverage areas
The Abu Dhabi Link bus operates within specific zones rather than across the entire emirate. These zones are chosen based on population density, travel demand, and access gaps in fixed-route bus services.
- Areas included: Currently covered areas include Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Shahama, old Al Bahyah, Al Rahbah, Al Samha, parts of Al Sader, and Khalifa City. Within these zones, the service provides corner-to-corner mobility using virtual stops located near residential clusters, retail areas, and community facilities.
- Key attractions: The coverage also benefits residents living near leisure and cultural destinations such as Saadiyat beaches, Yas Mall, Warner Bros World, and Louvre Abu Dhabi. For travellers combining different modes of transport, the link bus fits neatly into the broader Abu Dhabi public transport network that includes buses, taxis, and other options.
Operating hours
The Abu Dhabi Link bus runs daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. These hours cover most daily commuting needs, including early morning work trips and evening returns.
Operating times remain consistent across all service zones. However, availability within the app may vary slightly depending on demand levels during peak periods. Booking earlier during busy times can help reduce waiting.
Pricing and fare structure of the Abu Dhabi Link bus
The fare structure of the Abu Dhabi Link bus is simple and zone-based, making it easy for users to plan trips without surprises.
| Zone/area | Fare per boarding | Notes |
| Al Shahama and similar zones | AED 2.00 | Standard fare applies when boarding within these service zones. |
| Yas Island and Saadiyat Island | Free (until further notice) | Promotional or trial fare waiver is currently in place and subject to change. |
How to book and ride the Abu Dhabi Link bus
Booking an Abu Dhabi Link bus ride is fully app-based and designed to be straightforward.
- Download the Abu Dhabi Link app on iOS or Android.
- Create an account using your name, email address, phone number, and a password.
- Enable location permissions so the app can identify nearby virtual stops.
- Select your pick-up and drop-off points within the service zone; the app automatically assigns the nearest virtual stop.
- Review the estimated arrival time along with the bus plate number and driver details.
- Board the bus at the assigned virtual stop and pay using your Hafilat Smart Card.
- Track your journey in real time through the app until you reach your destination.
This digital-first experience aligns with how residents already use other Abu Dhabi bus services across the city, ensuring familiarity for regular commuters.
Payment methods for the Abu Dhabi Link bus
Payment for the Abu Dhabi Link bus is accepted only through the Hafilat Smart Card. Cash payments are not allowed onboard, and credit or debit cards cannot be used directly on the bus.
The Hafilat card costs AED 10 and is valid for five years. It can be topped up at ticket vending machines, selected retail locations, and via approved transport apps. You have to maintain a minimum balance to complete a journey successfully.
This payment system is consistent with how fares are handled across Abu Dhabi’s network of bus stations and terminals, creating a unified public transport experience.
Comparison: Abu Dhabi Link bus vs regular public buses
While both services use the same payment system, their operating models differ significantly.
| Feature | Abu Dhabi Link (on-demand) | Regular fixed-route buses |
| Route type | Flexible, corner-to-corner travel using virtual stops | Fixed routes with scheduled physical stops |
| Booking required | Yes, booking is done through the mobile app | No booking required; passengers arrive and board |
| Payment | Hafilat Smart Card only | Hafilat Smart Card only, with fixed or distance-based fares |
| Fare | AED 2 in many zones; free in Yas Island and Saadiyat Island currently | Local trips typically cost AED 2, with higher fares for longer or intercity routes |
| Operating hours | 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. | Varies by route; some start early morning or run late at night |
Both services accept the Hafilat card, and fares remain affordable across the network. Many residents combine both options daily, using the link bus for local travel and fixed-route buses for longer connections, including access points like Baniyas West bus station, which serves surrounding residential communities.
Limitations and tips
Limitations: The Abu Dhabi Link service operates only within designated zones, which means trips starting or ending outside these areas require regular buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services. Virtual pick-up points may involve a short walk, and peak-hour demand can lead to longer waiting times.
Tips:
- Free fare zones on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island are promotional and may change, so checking the app before travel is important.
- For practical trip planning to popular destinations, examples such as reaching Mushrif Mall by bus in Abu Dhabi help illustrate how different services can be combined efficiently.
- Allow extra time to reach assigned virtual pick-up points, especially in larger communities.
- Booking earlier during busy periods can help reduce waiting times.
Key takeaways
Abu Dhabi Link offers a flexible, app-based way to travel within selected zones across the city. With fares typically set at AED 2 per boarding and free rides currently available in Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, it provides an affordable alternative for short trips. Payments are made exclusively through the Hafilat Smart Card, and the service operates daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., making it especially useful for last-mile travel and everyday commuting.
FAQs
AED 2 applies in zones like Al Shahama and Al Rahbah. Yas Island and Saadiyat Island currently offer free rides under a trial phase, subject to change.
No, you have to pay with the Hafilat Smart Card.
You are likely outside the service zone. In such cases, you can use regular buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services.
All trips must be booked through the app, but requests are processed immediately based on availability.
Cards are available at vending machines, Lulu Hypermarket branches, and major bus stations. Top-ups can be done via machines or approved mobile apps.
