Audi
Cadillac
Genesis
Kia
MG
Nissan
Suzuki
BMW
Changan
Honda
Lamborghini
Mazda
Polaris
Tesla
Bentley
Dodge
Hyundai
Lexus
McLaren
Porsche
Toyota
Bugatti
Ford
Infiniti
Land Rover
Mitsubishi
Peugeot
Haval
Chrysler
Ferrari
Jaguar
Lincoln
Mercedes
Rolls Royce
Hongqi
Chevrolet
GMC
Jetour
Maserati
Mini
Renault
Jeep
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has made tremendous efforts. As it ensures that getting around Dubai on public transport is easy as pie. It has routed the city and its courses through the Dubai Metro and the Dubai Bus service. This overview will give you details on the Dubai Bus service.
The Dubai Bus Service Initiative
The RTA takes care of the huge fleet of public buses. It includes not only metro link buses but also inter-city routes and express lines. The Dubai bus network boasts 17 fully functioning bus stations. It also has more than 2,000 bus stops. The fleet is composed of 170 double-decker buses, 935 standard buses, 339 articulated buses, and special metro link buses.
All buses approved by the RTA are equipped with air conditioning and feature LCD screens. They display the bus stop details and general notifications. These buses have been designed to be used by People of Determination. They have dedicated entrances and wheelchair-accessible spaces available. The door open/close operations are accompanied by audible alerts. And also uses signaling the corresponding lights.
Besides the standard Dubai Bus service, RTA has also set up the Dubai Bus on Demand service. It is a group-sharing ride for, in total, six people.
Major Bus Stations Timing in Dubai
Dubai has its several important bus stations acting as the main points for the beginning and end. These bus stations are usually equipped with some facilities. Such as a cafeteria for passengers who can have a bite to eat. Below is a list of major bus stations along the operational hours of opening and closing:
| Bus Station | Opening Time | Closing Time |
| Abu Hail Metro Bus Station | 05:23 | 00:19 |
| Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | 04:58 | 04:00 |
| Al Jafiliya Bus Station | 05:18 | 22:45 |
| Al Karama Bus Station | 05:53 | 00:00 |
| Al Quoz Bus Station | 05:02 | 22:40 |
| Al Qusais Bus Station | 06:55 | 23:20 |
| Deira City Center Bus Station | 05:30 | 01:30 |
| Etisalat Metro Bus Station | 06:00 | 00:18 |
| Gold Souq Bus Station | 04:25 | 00:57 |
| Hatta Bus Station | 06:29 | 21:30 |
| Ibn Battuta Metro Bus Station | 05:02 | 01:18 |
| Jebel Ali Bus Station | 05:40 | 23:30 |
| Mall of the Emirates Bus Station | 05:19 | 00:42 |
| Rashidiya Metro Bus Station | 05:02 | 00:53 |
| Sabkha Bus Station | 05:35 | 01:30 |
| Satwa Bus Station | 04:57 | 00:04 |
| Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station | 05:00 | 04:00 |
| Union Square Bus Station | 04:25 | 01:25 |
These times are indicative of either the first departing bus or the last one arriving at the station.
The bus service in Dubai is one of the most cost-effective transportation modes in the city.
Major Bus Stations of Dubai
The central bus stations in Dubai are Al Ghubaiba and Gold Souq. Bus stops and stations are located all over the city, including outside metro stations.
RTA bus routes operate at the following key stations:
- Abu Hail
- Al Ghubaiba
- Al Sabkha
- Ibn Battuta
- Mall of the Emirates
- Gold Souq
- Al Qusais
- Al Rashidiya
- Al Satwa
- Hatta
Most of the bus stations come with NOL top-up machines, cafeterias and vending machines. These are to facilitate commuter’s needs.
Dubai RTA Bus Station Coverage
The RTA bus network covers over 80% of Dubai’s urban areas.
Dubai Bus Fares
Dubai bus fares depend on the type of Nol card used and number of zones crossed in the journey. Here’s a breakdown:
| Nol Card Type | Within 1 Zone | 2 Adjacent Zones | More than 2 Zones |
| Silver Card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.5 |
| Gold Card | AED 6 | AED 10 | AED 15 |
| Personal Card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.5 |
| Red Ticket | AED 4 | AED 6 | AED 8.5 |
RTA Bus Routes in Dubai
There are more than 100 routes in the Dubai bus network. They are everything you could imagine. The types of bus connections include:
Local Bus Routes
These buses have a smaller range covering shorter distances than the feeder bus lines. Stopping at every bus stop along the route.
Feeder Bus Routes
These routes are those that connect the metro stations with nearby neighborhoods. But with no extra charge for metro access.
These buses connect metro stations to various parts of the city and are prefixed with an ‘F.’
| Route ID | Starts From | Ends At |
| F1 | Union MS | Al Baraha |
| F2 | Etisalat MS | Al Muhaisnah 4 |
| F3 | Centrepoint Metro Bus Station | Mirdif West |
| F4 | GGICO MS | Sabkha, Turnoff |
| F5 | Centrepoint Metro Bus Station | Mizhar 1 |
| F6 | Centrepoint Metro Bus Station | Al Rashidiya |
| F7 | Etisalat MS | Al Qusais DM Housing |
| F8 | Dubai Festival City | Al Nahda 2 |
Express Bus Routes
These buses are faster than local buses; they stop at major stations. Bus stops make fewer stops than those of local buses.
These routes have fewer stops, allowing for quicker travel across the city.
| Route ID | Starts From | Ends At |
| 13B | Gold Souq Bus Station | Al Qusais Bus Station |
| 91A | Gold Souq Bus Station | Jebel Ali Bus Station |
| X02 | Union Square Bus Station | Al Satwa |
| X13 | LuLu Village | Al Satwa Bus Station |
| X22 | Al Qusais Indl Area | Business Bay MS |
| X23 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | International City |
| X25 | Al Karama Bus Station | Dubai Outsource City |
| X28 | LuLu Village | Dubai Internet City MS |
| X64 | Al Baraha Bus Stn | Ras Al Khor |
| X92 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Dubai Investment Park 1 |
| X94 | Gold Souq Bus Station | Dubai Investment Park 1 |
Night Bus Routes
These bus routes operate during nighttime. Use two airports and multiple routes to key areas connecting the two airports. The airports are Al Maktoum Airport and Dubai International Airport.
These buses operate during late hours from 09:00 pm to 05:00 am:
| Route ID | Starts From | Ends At |
| N30 | Dragon Mart 2 | Airport Terminal 2 |
| N55 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Stn | Al Maktoum International Airport |
Intercity Bus Routes
These buses are very handy as they generally connect Dubai to other emirates. They also connect some of the favored ones with the routes Dubai to Abu Dhabi.
These routes connect Dubai with other emirates:
| Route ID | Starts From | Ends At |
| E16 | Al Sabkha Bus Station | Hatta Bus Station |
| E100 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Abu Dhabi CBS |
| E101 | Ibn Battuta MS | Abu Dhabi, Central Bus Station |
| E201 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Al Ain Bus Station |
| E303 | Union Square MS | Sharjah, Al Jubail Bus Station |
| E306 | Ghubaiba Bus Station | Sharjah, Al Jubail Bus Station |
| E307 | Deira City Center Bus Station | Sharjah, Al Jubail Bus Station |
| E315 | Etisalat MS | Sharjah, Al Muwailah |
| E400 | Union Square MS | Ajman Bus Station |
| E411 | Etisalat MS | Ajman Bus Station |
| E700 | Union Square MS | Fujairah Bus Station |
Urban Bus Routes
These regular buses have multiple stops and are ideal for city travel:
| Route ID | Starts From | Ends At |
| 5 | Abu Hail Metro Station | Union Square Bus Station |
| 6 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Dubai Healthcare City |
| 7 | Al Quoz, Bus Station | Al Satwa |
| 8 | Al Baraha Bus Station | Ibn Battuta Metro Station |
| 9 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Business Bay Metro Station |
| 10 | Gold Souq Bus Station | Al Quoz Bus Station |
| 11 | Al Rashidiya Bus Station | Al Awir Immigration |
| 12 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Al Quoz Bus Station |
| 13 | Gold Souq Bus Station | Al Qusais DM Housing |
Dubai, the city’s bus routes for public transport, shows a comprehensive bus network. It offers diverse paths to meet a different need for travel. If you are going to be with the city or to nearby emirates, there is a bus route for you.
Seasonal Bus Routes
These routes are seasonal because of visiting certain attractions such as Global Village or Miracle Garden. As they are operative only during that particular season.
CBD Bus Routes
These lines run between the old and the new parts of Dubai city. Thus, stitching commuters between these two areas.
With this network, you can easily navigate through Dubai and even to other wastes. Thus, making sure that public transportation is accessible and easy for everyone.
Dubai is home to an extensive bus network with a variety of routes. Serving the city and connecting to the main bus stations all across the city. A definitive note of different types of bus routes in the city underlined as the following:
New Routes (Effective from August 30)
- F39: Etisalat Bus Station ↔ Oud Al Muteena Roundabout (Every 30 minutes)
- F40: Etisalat Bus Station ↔ Mirdif, Street 78 (Every 30 minutes)
- F58: Al Khail Metro Station ↔ Dubai Internet City (Every 30 minutes)
- F59: Dubai Internet City Metro Station ↔ Dubai Knowledge Village (Every 30 minutes)
Route Changes
- Route 21: In two numbers, now 21A and 21B.
- Route 61D: Merges with Route 66.
- Route 95: Merges with Route 95A.
- Route 6: Until now, this route was from Oud Metha Metro Station to Dubai Healthcare City.
- Route 99: Now the coverage includes JAFZA One.
- Route F31: The route covers new stops in The Greens.
- Route F45: New stops to be added to the routes in Al Furjan.
- Route F54: The JAFZA One stop is removed from the bus route.
- Intercity Route E700: From now on, the bus will start from Etisalat Bus Station. Instead of starting from Union Bus Station.
Difference Between X28 Bus Route and RTA Bus Route
Express Bus X28 in Dubai is a service which is run by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This particular type is meant for the people who need to travel quickly in Dubai. Stopping only a few stations in comparison with regular RTA bus services. With a limited number of stops, the X28 can cover a longer distance in a shorter time. It is very convenient for those who want to shorten their travel time.
Key Characteristics of X28 Bus Route:
Express Service
The X28 is focused mainly on speed and on efficiency. Hence, make fewer stops than regular RTA buses, so you will get to your destination faster.
Specific Key Areas
The bus also connects major areas in Dubai. So, in this case travelers get a direct and quicker option to cover long distances.
Regular RTA Bus Services:
More Stops
Typical of RTA buses, regular RTA buses spread their service throughout a broader area of Dubai.
Short Intercity Stops
Such buses are more suggestive of traveling to the city center. It is equally perfect for the passengers’ effects because they can arrive right to the spots they want to visit.
Public Transportation Connection
Both X28 and regular RTA buses make-up a full-featured public transportation network in Dubai. The X28 is intended for speed and efficiency. While regular RTA buses provide accessibility and convenience for passengers traveling shorter distances. The routes are integrated as a single system. It is where all commuter types find a way that fits them best. Such a system is applicable for both those looking for long journeys or needing detailed local connections.
Easiest Way to Use Buses in Dubai
Riding through Dubai, the application of the bus system is direct and convenient. Primarily due to the Nol Card system integration. Here is a detailed guide on how you can use the buses in Dubai.
Nol Card
To use the bus system in Dubai, you require a Nol Card. It is a means of transport not just on the metro but also on the tram and other public transportation. Nol cards come in four types.
Red Nol Card: The most appropriate for tourists or people who don’t often ride the metro.
Silver Nol Card: This is the most popular option for the frequent public transportation users. Including tourists.
Gold Nol Card: It has the same benefits as Silver Nol Card. But with the use of the Gold Class, you have access to a more luxurious metro or bus environment.
Blue Nol Card: A card that is personalized for residents and expats and comes with additional features. Like auto top-up and balance protection.
Where Can One Buy a Nol Card
Nol Card could be bought at several locations such as:
- Metro stations
- Bus stations
- RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) customer service centers
Using Your Nol Card
Tapping In: When you board the bus, tap your Nol Card on the card reader. This is mandatory to start your journey.
Tapping Out: Upon exiting, tap your Nol Card again on the reader. This ensures you are charged correctly based on the distance traveled. Failure to tap out may result in the maximum fare being deducted from your card.
Understanding the Fare Zones
Dubai is divided into zones, and the zone determines the cost of the bus fare:
Tier 1: Travel within 1 zone or 2 zones if the distance you travel is less than 3 km
Tier 2: Travel from an adjacent zone to another zone.
Tier 3: Travel through three or more zones.
Fares and Pricing
Your bus fare is computed based on your Nol Card type and the number of zones crossed on the journey:
Red Nol Ticket:
1 Day Pass: AED 20 ($5.45) for unlimited travel on one type of transportation.
1 Zone: AED 4 ($1.10)
2 Zones: AED 6 ($1.65)
3 Zones: AED 8.5 ($2.30)
Silver Nol Card:
Card Cost: AED 25 ($6.80) with AED 19 as an initial balance.
1 Zone: AED 3 ($0.80)
2 Zones: AED 5 ($1.35)
3 Zones: AED 7.5 ($2.05)
Tip: Remember to always have a minimum of AED 7.5 in your Nol card to avoid being fined.
Topping Up Your Nol Card
It’s possible to top up your Nol Card at:
- Vending machines positioned at metro stations and bus stops.
- RTA customer service centers.
Via the internet through the RTA website, which contains the interactive map. Thus, showing the locations of the top-up points.
Types of Buses in Dubai
Dubai’s bus fleet comprises different types of buses. All of them are equipped with air conditioning. They can be accessed by users in wheelchairs:
Standard Bus: They are the most common type, with 935 buses in motion.
Articulated Bus: Long buses with a flexible mid-section, and 339 of them are in operation.
Double-Decker Bus: These buses have 2 floors, there are a total of 170 in service.
Metro Feeder Bus: Specially made to carry people to and from metro stations. 70 of them are in operation.
Start connecting the dots of the Nol Card system, fare zones and bus types. You will easily ride on a bus in Dubai throughout the city in a fully convenient manner.
Cooled Bus Stops in Dubai
The hot and humid climate of Dubai, especially in summer, requires at least AC bus stops. It is more than just a luxury. Every bus stop in the entire city is a fully enclosed unit and furnished with air conditioning. As it is impossible for people to wait for their bus without air conditioning.
Comfort Features
With the system, the bus stop remains prime and sanitary conditions. Because the temperature inside is kept low, and passengers are partially shielded from soaking heat.
Nol Card Vending Machines
Not only some bus stops are complemented with a vending machine. Where the passengers can top up their Nol Card. These machines are also available at the route of some bus stops. Thus, making the journey more comfortable.
Best Ways of Planning Your Journey on Dubai Bus
Step 1: Know the Closest Bus Stop or Station Using S’hail
- First of all, you will have to find the bus route serving your destination through the S’hail app. It is an RTA approved tool. The app provides RTA bus timings.
- Open the S’hail app on your phone
- Tap ‘Plan’ and enter your starting point and final destination
- Review the possible route options, including journey time and cost
- Select your preferred route to see the bus stops along the way
- At times taking the Dubai metro can be faster also. So, at first look at all the available options. You might consider the Dubai Bus Routes List for better planning also.
Step 2: Prepare Your NOL Card.
- So, you have the stop and route defined now just to make sure you have a valid NOL card. It is also used to pay for the bus fare in Dubai.
- As with the Dubai Metro every RTA bus is fitted with the NOL card readers at the entrance. When getting on the bus simply tap your card on these readers to pay your fare.
- Check to see that your NOL card has an amount of at least AED 7.50 for you to be allowed entry. Please note that buses do not sell NOL cards and the machines don’t have a top-up option. Thus, you have to buy one of them in advance from a metro station or some select bus stops.
Step 3: Get on the Bus
When you have planned the route and got your NOL card ready, go to the bus stop and board the bus. RTA buses can easily be recognized by their color and sign, which is distinct. Red and white for regular buses, blue and white for feeder buses. Electronic signage displays the bus number and route on the front and rear of the bus.
Dubai’s bus stops are also marked plainly, having RTA sign boards and AC waiting areas.
Key Rules:
- Do not enter the bus stopping area until the bus arrives.
- Signal to the bus that you want it to stop.
- Wait for the driver to open the door for you before boarding.
- You must board through the front door and exit through the rear. Except for women and children who may exit through the front.
- Never argue with the driver.
- Don’t play loud music or any audio on the bus.
- Keep your seats until the bus stops fully.
- Not bring heavy luggage with you, pets, noisy instruments, or hazardous items onto the bus.
Conclusion
The orientation through the bus system of Dubai is simplified and lasts primarily. Just because of the RTA. The tourist visiting the landmarks or everyday travelers find it easy to pay transportation fares. Because of the various kinds of Nol cards available. The routes that RTA buses offer cater for every traveler. These AC buses are even more pleasant experience-wise in this hot season. Besides, fares are based on the bus-determined travel zones and zoning systems. Happy Exploring the City with Dubai RTA Bus.
