The smooth operations of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) depend on the public transport system in Dubai. The X23 bus service links Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to International City, serving the residential and commercial districts near Dragon Mart in Bur Dubai.
The guide provides all necessary X23 bus information, including stop locations as well as weekend and holiday operations details.
What is the X23 Bus Route?
The X23 bus is a key route operated by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It connects two busy areas:
- Starting Point: Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
- End Point: International City (France Cluster area)
Residents of International City benefit from this route because it provides transport access to Al Ghubaiba and Deira, and Bur Dubai areas. People who need access to either Dragon Mart or Union Metro Station, together with tourist destinations along Dubai Creek, will find it helpful.
X23 Bus Timings (Updated 2025)
Here are the updated X23 bus timings from Al Ghubaiba to International City:
Weekdays (Monday to Friday)
- First Bus: 5:20 AM
- Last Bus: 11:30 PM
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes
Weekends (Saturday and Sunday)
- First Bus: 5:30 AM
- Last Bus: 11:00 PM
- Frequency: Every 20–25 minutes
Public Holidays
- Timings may vary slightly, but service usually runs on the weekend schedule.
You can use the RTA S’hail app or RTA trip planner for real-time tracking of X23 RTA bus services and updates.
Major Stops on the X23 Route
The X23 route map includes many stops, but here are some of the most popular ones:
- Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
- Al Karama Post Office
- Oud Metha Road
- Rashidiya Metro Bus Parking
- Al Warqa
- Dragon Mart 2
- International City – France Cluster
This covers important locations and connects residential, shopping, and business hubs across Dubai.
X23 Bus Fare & NOL Card Information
Trip Distance (Zones Crossed) | NOL Silver Card Fare | NOL Gold Card Fare | NOL Personal/Blue Card Fare |
Within 1 Zone (e.g., short intra-area ride) | AED 3.00 | AED 6.00 | AED 3.00 |
2 Adjacent Zones (e.g., Al Ghubaiba to Rashidiya) | AED 5.00 | AED 10.00 | AED 5.00 |
More Than 2 Zones (e.g., Al Ghubaiba to International City) | AED 7.50 | AED 15.00 | AED 7.50 |
The X23 bus fare depends on how many zones you travel through:
Al Ghubaiba to International City: The Fare is around AED 7 (crosses 2 zones)
You must use a Nol Card – no cash payments accepted
Here are some NOL card types you can use:
Silver NOL Card: good for regular commuters
Gold NOL Card: access to Gold Class seats (extra cost)
Personal NOL Card: registered in your name
You can check your NOL card balance easily using the RTA app or top up at any metro station or online.
Estimated Travel Time
Wondering how long the X23 bus route?
Normally, the trip from Al Ghubaiba to International City takes 45 to 55 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.
During rush hour, the travel time may extend slightly.
Real-Time Bus Tracking & RTA Mobile App
To make your journey reliable and smooth, download the RTA S’hail app. It allows you to:
- Check real-time bus timings
- Track the exact location of the X23 bus
- View alternate RTA routes
- Recharge your NOL card balance
It’s available on both Android and iOS and is a must-have for regular commuters.
Key Attractions Along the X23 Route
The X23 bus passes near several major attractions:
- Al Ghubaiba Metro Station: great connection to the Green Line
- Dragon Mart: perfect for wholesale and budget shopping
- Dubai Creek: popular for boat rides and traditional souks
- Bur Dubai and Deira: historical parts of Dubai
- International City: residential clusters with food outlets and small shops
If you plan to visit these areas, the X23 route is one of the best options.
Tips for X23 Bus Riders
Here are some helpful tips:
- Remember to arrive at the stop 5 to 10 minutes before the scheduled time
- Keep your NOL card balance topped up
- Use the RTA trip planner for easy navigation
- Avoid peak hours if you want a relaxed trip
- Always check for updates on RTA social media or the app
Conclusion
People use the X23 bus route from Al Ghubaiba to International City, which provides both dependability and ease of travel throughout Dubai. People using this bus can reach their destinations at Dragon Mart, Bur Dubai, and International City. Moreover, this route is reliable and offers you comfort and peace of mind.
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