Welcome to Da Nang! You have just touched down at Da Nang International Airport (DAD), the gateway to Central Vietnam. The cabin crew has bid you farewell, the humid tropical air is hitting your face, and excitement is bubbling up. But as you step out of the arrival hall in 2026, a familiar scene unfolds: a crowd of drivers waving, offering "cheap taxi" rides, and the general buzz of a busy travel hub. You just want to get to your hotel, take a shower, and start your vacation without getting ripped off.
We know exactly how you feel. Navigating a new airport can be disorienting, and the last thing you want is to haggle with a stranger over a fare you don't understand. Is Grab allowed here? Where exactly do you stand to catch one? And how much should it actually cost to get to the Dragon Bridge or My Khe Beach? These are the questions we hear every day from travelers just like you.
At DanangLocals.com, we believe that your trip starts the moment you leave the terminal, not when you check into your hotel. That is why we swear by Grab—the Southeast Asian "Uber Super App." It is safe, transparent, and in 2026, it remains the most convenient way to move from Da Nang Airport to City Center. However, the pickup points have changed slightly over the years, and there are unwritten rules about airport tolls that often confuse first-timers.
In this guide, we are going to walk you through the process step-by-step. We will show you exactly where to stand at both the Domestic (T1) and International (T2) terminals, break down the 2026 price list so you can budget accurately, and share some "insider secrets" to avoid the common "Fake Grab" scams. Let’s get you on the road safely!
Is Grab Available at Da Nang International Airport (DAD)?
The short answer is: Yes, absolutely.
In 2026, Grab is not only available but is the dominant form of transport for independent travelers moving from Da Nang Airport to City Center. Unlike some airports in the world where ride-hailing apps are banned or forced to park miles away, Da Nang Airport authorities have designated specific zones for technology taxis (Grab, Xanh SM, Be) to operate legally.
However, you might encounter men in uniforms whispering "No Grab, Grab ban" or "Grab price very high, my car cheaper." Do not listen to them. This is a common tactic to get you into an unmetered private car. Grab is fully legal, operational 24/7, and generally cheaper than traditional taxis for short distances.
Local Insight (DanangLocals.com):
The "Wifi Gap" Warning: While Grab is available, your connection might not be. The Free Airport Wifi is strong inside the terminal but often disconnects the moment you step out to the parking lot. We highly recommend buying a SIM card immediately upon arrival (see our tips below) so you don't lose connection with your driver.
Where is the Exact Grab Pick-up Point at Da Nang Airport?
This is the most critical part of this guide. Da Nang Airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 (Domestic) and Terminal 2 (International). They are close to each other, but the pickup points are completely different. If you stand in the wrong spot, your driver will cancel, and you will be left sweating in the heat.
Where to find Grab at the Domestic Terminal (T1)?
If you are flying in from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Dalat, you will land at T1.
Exit the Arrival Hall: Walk out of the glass doors on the ground floor.
Cross the Street: Do not wait at the curb immediately outside the door (that is for traditional taxis and pickups). You must cross the pedestrian crossing to the "island" or the parking lot area.
Look for the Green Parasols: In 2026, the dedicated Ride-Hailing App area is usually marked with green parasols or signage saying "Technology Taxi" (Xe Công Nghệ). It is typically located at the far end of the parking lot lane.
Where to find Grab at the International Terminal (T2)?
If you are arriving from Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, or Thailand, you will land at T2.
Exit the Arrival Hall: Walk out of the main doors.
Turn Left: Do not cross the road immediately. Turn left and walk along the sidewalk.
Look for the "Ride App" Pillars: Walk past the Burger King and Star Cafe. You will see designated pillars (usually numbered 10 through 12 in 2026) marked for App Pickups. Drivers are not allowed to linger here; they must do a "touch and go," so be ready to hop in quickly.
Local Insight (DanangLocals.com):
The "Screenshot" Trick: Once you book, take a screenshot of your driver's license plate number and the car color. The pickup area can be chaotic with hundreds of white cars. Showing the screenshot to a confused driver helps them identify if they are yours or not without needing to speak English!
What are the Grab Prices from Da Nang Airport to City Center in 2026?
One of the biggest advantages of using Grab is price transparency. You know exactly what you will pay before you get in. However, prices fluctuate based on demand (rain, rush hour) and car type.
Here is an estimated price breakdown for 2026 for a standard trip from Da Nang Airport to City Center (approx. 3-5 km):
| Destination | GrabCar 4-Seater (VND) | GrabCar 7-Seater (VND) | Est. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Center (Han Market/Dragon Bridge) | 80,000 - 120,000 | 100,000 - 140,000 | 10-15 min |
| My Khe Beach Area | 100,000 - 150,000 | 130,000 - 180,000 | 15-20 min |
| Da Nang Train Station | 70,000 - 100,000 | 90,000 - 120,000 | 10 min |
| Hoi An Ancient Town | 300,000 - 400,000 | 350,000 - 500,000 | 45-60 min |
Does the Grab fare include the Airport Toll Fee?
No, it does not. This is the #1 cause of arguments between tourists and drivers.
Da Nang Airport charges an Airport Entrance Fee (Gate Fee) for every car entering the pickup lane.
Cost: 10,000 VND - 15,000 VND (depending on the car size and time).
Who pays? The passenger (You).
How to pay? The driver pays the booth electronically or with cash when entering/exiting. You must reimburse them in cash or they will add it to the app ("Extra Fee") at the end of the trip. Please prepare a 10k or 20k VND note to give to the driver.
Local Insight:
The "Surge" Warning: During heavy rain or rush hour (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM), Grab prices can double. If you see the app showing 200k VND for a short trip to the city, check our Transportation in Da Nang guide for alternatives like Xanh SM (Electric Taxi) or traditional taxis which run on meters and might be cheaper during surges.
How to Book a Grab from Da Nang Airport Step-by-Step?
If you have used Uber or Lyft, you will find Grab very familiar. But for first-timers in Southeast Asia, here is the foolproof process.
What are the steps to use the Grab App?
Download & Register: Do this before you fly if possible. You need a phone number to receive an OTP code.
Select "Car": Open the app and choose the Car icon.
Set Pickup: The app usually auto-detects "Da Nang International Airport". Crucial: Select the correct terminal (T1 Domestic or T2 International) and the specific Column/Pillar number if the app asks.
Set Destination: Type in your hotel name.
Choose Service: Scroll to choose "GrabCar" (Standard), "GrabCar Plus" (Newer/Luxury cars), or "GrabBike" (Motorbike - only for solo travelers with backpacks, not suitcases!).
Book & Wait: Watch the map to see your driver approaching.
Local Insight:
Communication is Key: Most drivers use Google Translate. If they message you in Vietnamese, tap the "Translate" button in the chat. Send a predefined message like "I am at Pillar 10, wearing a red shirt" to help them find you faster in the crowd.
What Should Travelers Know to Avoid Problems with Grab?
While Grab is generally safe, the airport environment attracts scammers. Being aware of these 2026 tricks will ensure your arrival is smooth.
How to Identify and Avoid "Fake Grab" Drivers?
This is a "Rare Attribute" of the airport experience but dangerous if ignored. You will see men standing near the exit holding phones that look like the Grab app. They will approach you saying: "Grab? I am your driver. My app is error, cancel and pay cash cheaper."
The Scam: They are not your driver. They are "Taxi Dù" (Ghost Taxis). They will charge you 2-3 times the normal rate once you are in the car.
The Solution: Never cancel your booking. Only get in the car if the License Plate on the car matches the number on your phone app exactly.
Do You Need a Vietnamese SIM Card to Book Grab?
Yes, highly recommended.
Drivers often call to confirm your location. If you don't have roaming or a local SIM, you will miss the call, and they might cancel.
Recommendation: Buy a SIM card immediately at the kiosk in the Arrival Hall (T2). Viettel or Vinaphone are the best networks.
Check our Da Nang Airport Guide for more details on where to buy SIMs and exchange money.
Can You Pay Grab with Credit Cards or Cash?
You can use both.
Card: Link your Visa/Mastercard/Amex to the app. This is best to avoid fumbling with currency.
Cash: Select "Cash" as the payment method. Pay the driver in VND at the end.
Note: If paying cash, try to have small notes (20k, 50k, 100k). Drivers rarely have change for a 500,000 VND bill for a short ride.
Can I Book Grab from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An?
Yes, you can, but should you?
Grab Price: ~350,000 - 450,000 VND.
Private Car Price: Often cheaper (~300,000 VND) and more comfortable.
The Verdict: For long distances like Hoi An, booking a pre-arranged Private Car is often better value and ensures a driver is waiting for you with a name sign, avoiding the app wait time.
Conclusion
Getting from Da Nang Airport to City Center using Grab is a smart, budget-friendly choice for 2026. It saves you from the stress of haggling and lets you start your vacation with peace of mind. Just remember: Check the license plate, have small cash ready for the toll fee, and ignore the touts offering "cheap rides."
If you are worried about safety or want to know more about local customs before you hop in the car, check out our guide on Safety in Da Nang. And if you are still sorting out your entry paperwork, our Vietnam Visa for Da Nang page has the latest updates.
Da Nang is a beautiful city, and we are so happy you are here. Welcome home!