X23 Bus Route: Al Ghubaiba to International City Guide

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. Also Check:

FAQs

What time does the X23 bus leave from Al Ghubaiba?

The first bus leaves around 5:20 AM on weekdays and 5:30 AM on weekends.

Is X23 available on public holidays?

Yes, the X23 bus operates on holidays, usually following weekend timing.

Tell me the ways to check the X23 schedule in real-time?

Use the RTA S’hail app or RTA’s website to track the bus live.

Can I pay in cash for the X23 bus?

No. You must use a Nol card to ride any RTA bus in Dubai.

How much is the fare from Al Ghubaiba to International City?

The fare is around AED 7, depending on zones crossed.

Emila Hales

My name is Emila Hales. I've been living in the UAE for the past five years, and I absolutely love traveling. Writing about my travel experiences is something I enjoy, and I'm excited to share my adventures with others who are passionate about exploring new places.

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X23 Bus Route – Al Ghubaiba to International City (Full Guide)

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