You have just landed at Da Nang International Airport (DAD), feeling the tropical humidity hit your face, and the first thing on your mind is getting to your hotel without being ripped off. If you are reaching for your phone to book a ride, DanangLocals.com confirms that booking a Grab Da Nang Airport is one of the smartest, most transparent ways to start your Vietnam adventure
However, here is the reality that many first-time visitors miss: The "pick-up point" on your app isn't always right outside the arrival door. I have seen countless travelers standing confused on the curb, staring at their phones while their driver waits in a parking lot 50 meters away. Da Nang Airport has strict traffic flow rules, and if you don't know exactly where to walk, you might spend your first 15 minutes sweating in the heat trying to find your ride
Furthermore, let's talk about money. You might see a fixed price on the Grab app, but is that the final price? Usually, no. There are "hidden" costs like airport entrance tolls and potential night surcharges that you need to be aware of so you don't think your driver is trying to scam you. Transparency is key to a happy arrival
As your local friends at DanangLocals.com, we have mapped out every step for you. From finding the exact pillar to stand by, to deciding if you should pay by card or cash, we are here to ensure your transfer is smooth and stress-free. Let's dive into the details
Is Grab Allowed to Pick Up at Da Nang Airport (DAD)?
The short answer is: Yes. Grab is fully authorized and 100% legal to operate at both the Domestic (T1) and International (T2) terminals of Da Nang Airport. The service runs 24/7, so whether you land at sunrise or midnight, you can book a car.
However, "allowed" doesn't mean they can park just anywhere. To keep traffic flowing, airport authorities have designated specific zones for ride-hailing services. If you try to hail a Grab in the lane meant for buses or VIPs, security staff will quickly whistle you away.
💡 Local Insider Tip:
While Grab is legal, you will be approached by many traditional taxi drivers or private "touts" the moment you exit the baggage claim.
Experience: Just smile and say, "No thank you, I booked a Grab." Trust your app because the price is fixed, whereas meters can sometimes take the "scenic route"55.+1
DAD Airport Grab Pickup Point Map (Detailed Guide)
Finding your driver is the trickiest part of the process. The airport is divided into two terminals, and the pickup points are different for each. The GPS on your phone can also be a little "jumpy" indoors.
Here is a mental map to help you visualize your path from the arrival gate to your car seat6.
Domestic Terminal (T1) Pickup Zone
If you are flying in from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other Vietnamese cities, you will arrive at T1.
Step 1: Exit the Arrival Hall on the Ground Floor. You will see a busy road immediately in front of you.
Step 2: Do not wait on the curb immediately outside the glass doors (this is for immediate drop-offs and priority cars).
Step 3: Look for the Zebra Crossing. You must cross the first lane of traffic to reach the "island" or the second lane, which is the dedicated car park area7.
Step 4: Look for the pillars or signs that explicitly say "Ride-hailing Pickup" (Xe Công Nghệ). Drivers usually wait here.
Note: You will need to walk about 2-3 minutes from the door to this spot.
International Terminal (T2) Pickup Zone
If you are arriving from overseas (Korea, Singapore, Thailand, etc.), you will land at T2.
Step 1: Exit the Arrival Gate on the Ground Floor.
Step 2: Immediately Turn Left. Do not cross the road yet8.
Step 3: Walk along the sidewalk past the cafes and currency exchange booths towards the car park area.
Step 4: Look for Pillar 3 or the area near the large Glass Building at the end of the terminal.
Visual Cue: You will see a green Grab sign or a gathering of drivers holding phones. This is the designated spot
Breakdown of Grab Fees & Extra Surcharges (2026 Update)
Transparency is everything. The price you see on the Grab screen is for the ride itself, but it does not include third-party fees. Many tourists get confused when the driver asks for extra money at the end. Here is exactly what you are paying for
How much is the Airport Entrance Toll Fee?
Every car entering the airport to pick you up has to pay a "Gate Fee" or toll. Grab does not automatically include this in the fare displayed on your phone.
The Cost (2026): Approximately 10,000 VND - 15,000 VND for a 4-seater car and 15,000 VND - 20,000 VND for a 7-seater car.
How to Pay: The driver pays this upfront at the gate. You need to reimburse them. You can hand them cash directly, or they can add it to the final bill if you are paying by card (check the "Toll fee" addition on your receipt).
Are there Night Surcharges or Luggage Fees?
Generally, Grab is very straightforward, but there are nuances you should know as a visitor
Night Surcharge: If you book between 22:00 and 06:00, the base fare on the app might be slightly higher due to demand. However, drivers should not ask for extra cash for night driving on top of the app price.
Luggage: There is no official "per bag" fee. However, if you book a small GrabCar 4-seater (often a Kia Morning or Hyundai i10) and you have 3 large suitcases and 3 adults, the driver may refuse the ride. Be realistic about your luggage space.
Estimated Total Cost to Popular Destinations
To help you budget, here is an estimate of the total cost (App Fare + Toll) for a standard 4-seater Grab in 2026
| Destination | Estimated Cost (VND) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| City Center / Dragon Bridge | ~120,000 - 140,000 VND | 10 - 15 mins |
| My Khe Beach | ~130,000 - 160,000 VND | 15 - 20 mins |
| Hoi An Ancient Town | ~300,000 - 450,000 VND | 45 - 60 mins |
Contextual Note: If you are planning a trip to the Ancient Town, check out our guide on transportation in Da Nang. Sometimes, a Grab to Hoi An can be more expensive than a pre-booked private car due to surge pricing
Essential Tips for a Smooth Grab Experience at DAD
Now that you know the "Where" and the "How much," let's talk about the "How." As locals, we have seen plenty of small technical issues ruin a traveler's arrival mood. Here is how to avoid them14.
Why Can't I Find My Driver? (Common Connection Issues)
The number one complaint we hear is: "I booked, but I can't find him, and he can't call me."
The Problem: The free airport Wi-Fi is strong inside the building but often drops completely once you step out to the parking lot pickup zones.
The Solution: Before you leave the Wi-Fi zone, send a message via GrabChat describing exactly where you are standing (e.g., "I am at Pillar 4, wearing a red hat"). Better yet, take a photo of the pillar and send it
Pro Tip: We highly recommend buying a Vietnam SIM card at the counter inside before you exit. It ensures you have 4G to track the driver in real-time.
Cash vs. Card: Which Payment Method is Best?
Card (Linked to App): This is the most convenient. You don't have to fumble with currency immediately. It also prevents the "I don't have change" excuse.
Cash: If you choose cash, you must have small notes (10k, 20k, 50k).
Warning: Drivers often do not carry enough change for a 500,000 VND note (the largest bill). Keeping small change helps you pay the airport toll fee easily
Beware of "Fake Grab" Scams at the Airport
This is rare but it happens. You might be standing at the pickup point looking at your phone when a driver approaches you.
The Scam: He says, "Are you [Name]? I am your Grab." Or he might say, "Grab app is broken, I take you same price."
The Golden Rule: Always check the License Plate. Does the plate number on the car match the number on your app? If not, do not get in. Never cancel your booking on the app to go with a driver who asks you to "pay direct." Read more about safety in Da Nang here
Grab vs. Private Car: What is Better for Hoi An Trips?
If you are just going to a hotel in Da Nang City, Grab is perfect. But if you are heading straight to Hoi An or up to Ba Na Hills?
Grab: Good for short distances. For long trips, the price fluctuates wildly based on demand.
Private Car: For a trip to Hoi An, a private car transfer is often cheaper or the same price, but you get a cleaner car, a driver who waits for you even if your flight is delayed, and a fixed price with no hidden toll fees18.
Recommendation: If you are tired after a long flight, booking a private transfer avoids the stress of finding the pickup pillar entirely. Check out our Da Nang 5-day itinerary to see how we plan these moves efficiently.
DanangLocals.com hopes this guide helps you navigate your arrival like a pro. If you are still unsure or want to book a trusted local driver to welcome you at the gate, don't hesitate to message us directly. We are excited to welcome you to our city!