According to forum posts, there is a direct coach service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The E100 bus departs from Al Wahda Bus Station in Abu Dhabi and costs approximately 30 AED. The frequency of this service is either every 15 or 30 minutes.

Some travelers mentioned the possibility of driving or taking a taxi between the two cities. The journey by car or taxi covers approximately 160 km and takes about 90 minutes, depending on the starting and ending points within the cities. The cost of a taxi ride ranges from 250 to 300 AED.

For many users, renting a car was also suggested as a viable option, especially for those looking to have flexibility during their travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. No specific rental costs or companies were mentioned in the posts.

According to forum posts, Dubai is often recommended for its popular beach resorts and well-known attractions. However, it’s noted that Dubai's beach resorts can be crowded, which might not appeal to those seeking quieter experiences.

Some travelers have suggested that for a quieter beach holiday, Abu Dhabi might be a better choice. They pointed out that Abu Dhabi has less touristy areas like the Mangroves or Al Raha, which could provide a more low-key beach experience compared to the bustling scenes often found in Dubai.

According to forum posts, some recommended hotels in Dubai include the Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah for its luxurious offerings and the Rixos JBR, which provides a vibrant atmosphere. Travelers have also mentioned the Sofitel Jumeirah Beach as a top choice.

For those seeking budget-friendly options, travelers have called out areas such as Bur Dubai and Deira as having more affordable hotels. The Marina area, while generally pricier, is highlighted for its proximity to tourist attractions and numerous dining options.

Travelers have appreciated hotels that offer specific amenities. For example, the Traders Hotel is favored for its beach location and decent food, despite having a smaller pool area. It's also one of the few hotels in Abu Dhabi with room balconies, which might be an important aspect for some visitors.

For visitors interested in boutique-style resorts, forum users suggest looking for smaller, unique properties rather than large hotel chains, to enhance the personal feel of the stay.

Some travelers mentioned exploring the city during a 6-hour layover, although they noted that getting through the airport and traveling to and from the city can consume a significant amount of time. The Grand Mosque was specifically recommended as it's not too far from the airport, making it a feasible destination during shorter layovers.

According to forum posts, the Grand Mosque allows visits until 10 pm, with the last admission at 9 pm. This makes it an accessible option for those with evening layovers in Abu Dhabi. Travelers can experience the mosque's architectural beauty and serenity without venturing too far from the airport.

Travelers should be aware that returning to the airport at least one and a half to two hours before the departure of their onward flight is advisable. This timing ensures a smooth transition through airport security and other formalities.

According to forum posts, tourists can apply for a Dubai visa through various channels including airlines like Emirates or travel agents. If flights are booked on different itineraries with Emirates, the airline's website may not allow visa application, prompting users to seek alternatives like local travel agencies or trusted online portals.

Some travelers mentioned that visa requirements depend on the nationality and passport held. UK passport holders, for instance, can obtain a visa on arrival in Dubai. This visa on arrival is available at the immigration counter before arrival and baggage claim at Dubai International Airport (DXB), with no prior arrangement or payment required.

For many users, ensuring the legitimacy of the visa application source is crucial to avoid scams. They recommend using official government portals or established travel agencies to secure a tourist visa.

According to forum posts, Dubai offers diverse areas suited for various preferences. For travelers looking for luxurious beach resorts, areas like Marina/JBR, Jumeirah, and Palm Jumeirah are highly recommended. For those interested in being near cultural spots like Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, DIFC, or Sheikh Zayed Road, suitable options are available.

Some travelers mentioned that if they are looking for cost-effective options, Creek, Garhoud, or Deira are the best areas. For family-oriented stays, particularly with young children, resort-type accommodations that cater to families are preferable, with Sheraton MOE previously mentioned as a good option.

For quieter, less crowded options, travelers have suggested considering emirates like Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah. These areas offer a more relaxed atmosphere and are suitable for travelers looking for drop and flop vacations away from the bustling tourist centers.

According to forum posts, the local currency in Dubai is the UAE Dirham (AED), and it is recommended to use Dirhams for transactions. Some travelers noted that not all places accept foreign currencies, and those that do might offer unfavorable exchange rates.

Travelers have called out that money changers in Dubai accept various foreign currencies, including USD and Australian dollars. It was mentioned that it's better to exchange money upon arrival in Dubai rather than in one's home country for better exchange rates. Money changers in Dubai accept all US dollar notes, not just high denominations.

For many users, while US dollars may be accepted in some shops due to the Dirham being pegged to the USD, the majority of businesses require payment in local currency. The pegged rate might not apply in everyday transactions, and additional fees may be charged when using USD.