Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Bus Timing: X90 Express Guide (2026)
Quick answer: The X90 express bus connects Abu Dhabi with Al Ain. It runs daily from about 6:45 AM to 11:45 PM, roughly every hour, takes around 1 hour 45 minutes, and costs AED 25–30 by Hafilat card. Check live times in the ITC Darbi app.
The X90 is the fastest public-transport link between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Here is the timetable, fare, route and stops for 2026 — with the reminder that exact times can change, so confirm in the app before you travel.
X90 Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Bus Timing bus at a glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Bus Route | X90 |
| Departure Station | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| Arrival Station | Al Ain Bus Station |
| Distance | Approximately 160 km |
| Average Journey Time | 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours |
| First Departure | Around 6:45 AM |
| Last Departure | Around 11:45 PM |
| Bus Frequency | Every 30–60 minutes |
| One-Way Fare | Around AED 25 |
| Payment | Hafilat Card or ticket purchased at the station |
| Operator | Abu Dhabi Mobility |
X90 Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Bus Timings
The X90 runs daily from about 6:45 AM to 11:45 PM, with departures roughly every hour from each end.
Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Bus Timetable
| Departure (Abu Dhabi) | Arrival (Al Ain) |
|---|---|
| 6:45 AM | 8:55–9:15 AM |
| 7:45 AM | 9:55 AM |
| 9:45 AM | 11:55 AM |
| 11:45 AM | 1:55 PM |
| 2:45 PM | 5:05 PM |
| 5:45 PM | 8:05 PM |
| 8:45 PM | 11:05 PM |
| 11:45 PM | 1:55 AM |
Note: Intercity bus times shift with traffic and operator updates. Treat these as a 2026 guide and confirm live departures in the ITC Darbi app before you set off.
Route and key stops
The X90 departs from Al Nahyan / Abu Dhabi Bus Station and runs express to Al Ain Central Bus Station (Othman Bin Affan St), with limited stops such as Jarn Yafour along the way — which is what keeps it fast.
The X90 connects the two cities via several important locations before reaching Al Ain.
Main Bus Stops
| Major Stops |
|---|
| Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| Shahama |
| Baniyas |
| Al Hili |
| Al Ain Bus Station |
Fare and payment
The one-way fare is AED 25–30, paid with a Hafilat card. Make sure your card has enough credit: see how to recharge your Hafilat card and check your Hafilat balance before boarding.
Al Ain to Abu Dhabi X90 Bus Overview
The table below summarizes the most important details for anyone planning to travel on the X90 bus.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Bus Route | X90 |
| Departure Station | Al Ain Bus Station |
| Arrival Station | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| Distance | Approximately 160 km |
| Average Journey Time | 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours |
| First Departure | Around 5:30 AM |
| Last Departure | Around 11:00 PM |
| Bus Frequency | Every 30–60 minutes |
| One-Way Fare | Around AED 25 |
| Payment | Hafilat Card or station ticket counter |
| Operator | Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi) |
Al Ain to Abu Dhabi X90 Bus Timetable
| Departure (Al Ain) | Arrival (Abu Dhabi) |
|---|---|
| 5:30 AM | 7:20 AM |
| 7:00 AM | 8:50 AM |
| 9:00 AM | 10:50 AM |
| 12:00 PM | 1:50 PM |
| 3:00 PM | 4:50 PM |
| 6:00 PM | 7:50 PM |
| 9:00 PM | 10:50 PM |
Note: Departure times can vary during public holidays, Ramadan, or operational changes. It’s always a good idea to confirm the latest schedule before traveling.
X90 Bus Stops, Airport Connection & Travel Tips
The X90 travels directly between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi while stopping at several major locations along the route.
Main Bus Stops
| Route Stops |
|---|
| Al Ain Bus Station |
| Al Hili |
| Baniyas |
| Shahama |
| Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
Traveling to Zayed International Airport?
The X90 does not travel directly to Zayed International Airport. If you’re flying from Abu Dhabi:
- Take the X90 from Al Ain to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
- Transfer to the airport shuttle or a local airport bus.
- Allow approximately 2.5 to 3 hours for the complete journey, especially during busy periods.
Useful Travel Tips
- Reach the bus station at least 15–20 minutes before departure.
- Keep your Hafilat Card topped up or purchase your ticket before boarding.
- Morning departures are usually the best choice if you want to avoid heavier traffic later in the day.
- Carry drinking water for the journey, particularly during summer.
- During weekends and holidays, arrive early as buses can become busy.
Tips for the journey
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early, especially for the first or last bus.
- Carry water for the ~1h45 trip; buses are air-conditioned.
- For getting around once you arrive, see the city routes like the Abu Dhabi 102 bus.
Final thoughts
The X90 is the quick, cheap way between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain: about AED 25–30 and 1h45, with a bus roughly every hour from early morning to late night. Keep your Hafilat card topped up and check the Darbi app for the live time.
FAQs: Abu Dhabi to Al Ain bus (X90)
Which bus goes from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain?
The X90 express bus connects Abu Dhabi (Al Nahyan Bus Station) with Al Ain Central Bus Station.
How much is the Abu Dhabi to Al Ain bus fare?
The one-way fare is AED 25–30, paid with a Hafilat card.
How long does the X90 bus take?
About 1 hour 45 minutes, making it the fastest public option between the two cities.
What time does the X90 bus run?
From about 6:45 AM to 11:45 PM, roughly every hour. Confirm live times in the ITC Darbi app.
Which card do I need for the X90 bus?
A Hafilat card, the Abu Dhabi transit card. Top it up before you travel.
How often does the X90 run?
Roughly every hour throughout the day.
What is the first X90 bus from Al Ain?
The first departure is usually around 6:30 AM.
Is there a direct bus to Abu Dhabi Airport?
No. Passengers need to transfer at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the DubaiRead Editorial Team
