Moving guides
Moving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi: the complete guide
Moving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is one of the most common relocations in the UAE — for work, schools or simply a change of pace in the capital. The drive is only around 90 minutes, but a cross-Emirate move needs a little more planning than moving across town. Here is how to do it in a single, smooth day.
In this guide
What a Dubai to Abu Dhabi move costs
The price depends on your home size and how much packing you need — not on a per-kilometre meter. A good mover builds the highway distance into one fixed price in writing, so there are no fuel surcharges or "inter-Emirate" fees added on the day. A studio or one-bedroom move is at the lower end; villas with full packing sit higher. The only way to know your number is a free survey, which takes 15 minutes by video call.
Watch for: quotes that look cheap but add a distance or fuel surcharge once the truck is loaded. Insist on a written all-in price before moving day.
How long it takes
Most apartment moves are completed in one day: the crew packs and loads in the morning, drives the roughly 90 minutes to Abu Dhabi around midday, and unloads and sets up in the afternoon. Larger villas are sometimes packed the day before so the move day is just transport and setup.
Planning a one-day move
- Book an early start. Loading by 8–9am leaves comfortable time for the drive and afternoon setup.
- Full packing helps. Having the crew pack means loading is faster and nothing is left half-ready.
- One trip, one crew. A properly sized truck avoids a costly second run down the highway.
- Plan setup in advance. Share your new floor plan so beds, wardrobes and sofas go straight to the right rooms.
Permits and utilities in both cities
A cross-Emirate move touches two sets of admin. In Dubai you may need a move-out permit and service-lift booking; in Abu Dhabi, a move-in permit and lift slot at the new building. On utilities, close your DEWA account in Dubai and open an ADDC (Abu Dhabi Distribution Company) account for the new home, timed so power and water are on when you arrive. A full-service mover arranges the building permits at both ends for you.
Tips for a smooth cross-Emirate move
- Carry your documents, valuables and an essentials bag in your own car.
- Confirm transit insurance covers the full highway journey.
- Avoid month-end if you can — it is the busiest and hardest to book.
- Keep your mover's WhatsApp handy on the day to coordinate arrival and lift access.
Get your fixed moving quote
One free survey, one price in writing, our own crew. We reply on WhatsApp within the hour.
Get Free QuoteFrequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
It depends on your home size and packing needs. The highway distance is built into your fixed quote, never added as a surcharge. A free survey gives you one written price the same day.
How long does a Dubai to Abu Dhabi move take?
Most apartment moves are done in a single day: packing in the morning, the roughly 90-minute drive at midday, and setup in the afternoon. Larger villas may be packed the day before.
Do movers charge extra for the distance between Emirates?
Reputable movers include the journey in the fixed price. Star Edge does not add fuel or per-kilometre surcharges — the written price covers the full move.
Is my furniture insured on the highway journey?
Yes. Transit insurance should cover your belongings for the entire move, including the inter-Emirate drive. Confirm this is included before booking.
Do I need permits for both cities?
You may need a move-out permit in Dubai and a move-in permit in Abu Dhabi, plus service-lift bookings at both towers. Star Edge arranges these at both ends.
