Dubai Bus Guide: Stations, Routes, Timings & More

Dubai's bus transportation system, operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), represents a cornerstone of the city's advanced public transport network. This extensive system is designed to cater to the mobility needs of both residents and tourists, ensuring efficient and accessible transit across Dubai.

The RTA operates an expansive fleet of 1,518 buses, which includes 170 double-decker buses, 935 standard buses, and 339 articulated buses, as well as special links to the metro system. These buses traverse a network that connects the city through 17 fully equipped bus stations for buses and 2,185 bus stands, efficiently covering 82% of the urban area. This network includes 119 internal lines, encompassing 35 lines linked to metro stations, 12 intercity lines to transport passengers to other emirates, 62 internal routes, and 8 fast lines, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the city's key areas.

A key feature of Dubai's bus service is its focus on ensuring accessibility and comfort for all passengers. Each bus has air conditioning, an essential amenity given Dubai's hot climate. Additionally, the buses are fitted with informative screens that provide details about bus stops and broadcast general notifications, enhancing the travel experience for commuters.

Special attention is given to People of Determination, with dedicated entrances and spaces for wheelchair users, alongside audible alerts and flashing lights for door operations. This focus on inclusivity and user-friendly features is pivotal in handling the daily transportation of approximately 369,248 passengers.

The integrated public transport network in Dubai, which includes the bus system, Dubai Metro, Water Buses, and Abras (water taxis), makes navigating the city's main sights and areas both easy and pleasant.

This efficient network exemplifies Dubai's commitment to state-of-the-art public transport solutions and significantly contributes to the city's reputation as a world-class destination for both business and leisure.

Source: RTA Website

RTA Bus Stations

• Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
• Al Satwa
• Hatta
• Mall of Emirates
• Al Quasis
• Al Rashidiya
• Gold Souq
• Al Sabkha
• Ibn Battuta
• Abu Hail

Types of RTA Bus Routes

Express Bus Routes

An express bus route in Dubai is a faster transit service with fewer stops, managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). These routes connect major areas across the city, often using dedicated lanes to reduce travel time, particularly useful for long-distance commuters. They are part of Dubai's effort to provide efficient and reliable public transportation.

Source: RTA Website

Feeder Bus Routes

Feeder bus routes in Dubai are a specific type of bus service designed to transport passengers from various residential and commercial neighbourhoods to the nearest metro station and vice versa. These buses effectively extend the reach of the Dubai Metro, ensuring that even areas not directly served by the Metro are accessible through public transport.

Feeder buses usually have frequent stops within their neighbourhoods, providing a convenient connection to the metro system for easy and efficient travel across the city.

Source: RTA Website

Night Bus Routes

Night bus routes in Dubai, operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), provide public transportation during late hours, connecting major areas and key points across the city. They cater to the needs of night-time commuters, including those travelling for work or leisure, ensuring the city remains accessible around the clock.

These bus routes run in the evenings, operating hourly from 9:00 pm until 5:00 am the following day.

Source: RTA Website

Intercity Bus Routes

These routes are designed to connect Dubai with other cities and regions within the United Arab Emirates. They offer a convenient and cost-effective travel option for commuters and travellers looking to journey between different emirates.

These buses are typically equipped with comfortable seating and air conditioning, making longer-distance travel more pleasant. The intercity bus routes are an essential component of the UAE's broader public transport system, enhancing connectivity and accessibility across the region.

Source: RTA Website

Urban Bus Routes

These routes are designed to cover the urban areas extensively, providing residents and visitors with convenient access to various neighbourhoods, commercial districts, tourist attractions, and other key locations within Dubai.

Source: RTA Website

Urban CBD Bus Routes

Urban Central Business District (CBD) bus routes in Dubai specifically serve the central commercial areas of the city. These routes are designed to facilitate easy and efficient access to the business hubs, where a high concentration of offices, financial institutions, and commercial activities are located.

The CBD bus routes are crucial for daily commuters working in these areas and for visitors who need to travel to the heart of the city's economic activity. They often have higher frequency during peak business hours and are tailored to connect with other major transportation nodes, providing a seamless transit experience within Dubai's urban core.

Source: RTA Website

Seasonal Bus Routes

Seasonal bus routes in Dubai are special transit services provided by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) that operate during particular times of the year or for specific events. These bus routes in Dubai are particularly suitable for accessing seasonal attractions like the Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village.

It's important to note that these bus services are operational only during the times when these attractions are open. This ensures that visitors can conveniently reach these popular destinations when they are available to the public.

Source: RTA Website

How to Use the RTA Buses

Using the RTA buses in Dubai is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Plan Your Journey:
  • Utilize the RTA’s official website/app or S'hail app to determine the most suitable route to your destination, including the bus number, route, and schedule. This step is crucial for a hassle-free trip.
• Get an NOL Card:
  • Nol Card is the standard payment method for all RTA transport modes including buses. These cards can be purchased at metro stations, bus stations, and various authorized retailers across the city. It's important to keep this card topped up and ready for your travels.
• Locate Your Bus Stop:
  • Find the nearest bus stop for your chosen route. The bus stops are well-marked and usually have information about bus routes.
• Check Bus Timings:
  • Bus timings can be checked via the RTA app or at the bus stop for which you must arrive at the bus stop a few minutes before the scheduled departure time. Dubai Bus is fully operational from 04:00 am to 01:00 am the next day. 
• Board the Bus:
  • Boarding the bus is straightforward: check the route number displayed on the bus and tap your Nol Card on the card reader upon entering. Inside the bus, you can follow your route and upcoming stops via information screens, ensuring you’re aware of when your stop is approaching.
• Exiting the Bus Stop:
  • As you near your destination, signal the driver by pressing the stop button, indicating you wish to disembark at the next stop. When leaving the bus, don’t forget to tap your Nol Card on the card reader again to check out, as this ensures the correct fare is deducted. Follow any signs if you need to exit or transfer to another bus or metro line.

Important tips:

• Keep track of your Nol Card balance.
• Be aware of peak hours, as buses might be more crowded.
• Follow local customs and regulations while using public transportation.

Keep in mind the following rules:

• Remain clear of the area where buses come to a stop.
• Signal the bus driver when you want the bus to stop for you.
• Wait for the driver to open the door before approaching to board.
• Enter the bus through the front door and exit through the rear, although women and children may also use the front door to disembark.
• Avoid disputes with the bus driver.
• Wait until the bus has fully stopped before getting off.
• Avoid bringing heavy luggage, pets, noisy/musical instruments, and dangerous items on the bus.

Start planning your journey here.

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