Remember, the Etihad bus departs from the Etihad Travel Center, which is a bit out of the way, you will need a taxi or metro there.

There is much more to do in Dubai than Abu Dhabi.

In AUH - if you can stay on Yas or Saadiyat Island, you will have beach access.

Driving is very easy around the UAE, but a GPS (or a friend in pax seat) is a must.