Starting today, getting around Abu Dhabi by bus is not only easier but also more wallet-friendly! The city has rolled out a new ‘Standard Service’ fare system that’s straightforward and light on the pocket. Every journey begins with a small boarding fee of AED 2 and then just 5 fils for every kilometre you travel, with the total cost not exceeding AED 5 for any single trip. This is a game-changer for daily commuters and occasional riders alike, offering a unified fare for both city and suburban rides. Here are all the details you need to know.
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Seamless Transfers, Zero Extra Charges
Say goodbye to the hassle of paying extra every time you switch buses. Under the new system, you can hop from one bus to another within an hour of tapping out from the last bus and not pay the boarding fee again. Just remember:
- Switch buses within an hour of tapping out from the last one.
- Don’t backtrack on your journey.
- You can make up to two transfers across three buses.
- This also works with Abu Dhabi Link service transfers.
Smart Tapping With ‘Hafilat’
Keep your commute smooth by tapping your ‘Hafilat’ card at the start and end of your journey. If you forget to tap out and then back in when switching buses, it could be mistaken that you’ve enjoyed a long ride to the last stop, which could lead to a penalty or a higher fare deduction. So tap away to keep your travels on track and your fares fair!
Pocket-Friendly Passes For All
Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional rider, there’s a pass for you. The new system extends to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra (except for intercity services) and comes with updated prices:
- Get a 7-day pass for only AED 35.
- A 30-day pass will set you back just AED 95.
These new passes are up for grabs starting February 28, 2024, and as a heads-up, the old system passes won’t be sold after February 27.
Special Passes Unchanged
For our seniors, people of determination (and their companions), and students, don’t worry – your annual passes remain untouched at AED 500 and still offer all the coverage you need, minus intercity services. Also, kids under 10 still ride for free!
Existing Passes Still Good To Go
Already have a pass? Keep using it until it expires. Just remember, it’s good for the city areas in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra and won’t work for the newly included suburban areas or the ‘Standard Service’.
Support For Emirati Families
Supporting our community is key, and that’s why Emirati families on social support programmes get an extra helping hand with reduced rates for public transport passes: AED 30 for a 7-day pass and AED 80 for a 30-day pass.
So there you have it, folks – Abu Dhabi’s got a new way to ride, making your public transport simpler and more cost-effective. Happy travels!
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