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Budget-Friendly Transport Options for One of UAE’s Busiest Routes

The Dubai to Sharjah commute is one of the UAE’s busiest routes, notorious for its traffic congestion that can cost commuters up to 460 hours annually. However, if you don’t drive, don’t yet own a car, or want to avoid paying for a taxi ride (especially with the added Dh20 surcharge when crossing into Sharjah), there are still affordable and efficient public transport options available.

Whether you prefer traveling by land or sea, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Sharjah’s Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) offer several budget-friendly alternatives that connect the two emirates. From buses that link major transport hubs to ferries that let you cruise past traffic entirely, here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating this busy commuter route without breaking the bank.

Bus Routes from Dubai to Sharjah

In May 2025, RTA introduced a new bus service between Dubai and Sharjah. The intercity route E308 connects Stadium Bus Station in Dubai to Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah, adding to the network of existing routes. Here are the current intercity bus options between the two emirates:

Dubai to Sharjah Bus Routes

• E303: Union Square Metro Station – Al Jubail Bus Station
• E306: Ghubaiba Bus Station – Al Jubail Bus Station
• E307: Deira City Centre Bus Station – Al Jubail Bus Station
• E315: Etisalat by e& Metro Station – Muwailah Bus Station
• E308: Dubai Stadium Bus Station – Al Jubail Bus Station
• E307A: Abu Hail Metro Station – Al Jubail Bus Station

Fare: Dh12 per person for a single trip

Timings: Public buses in Dubai operate from 4am to 1am (the following day). For real-time schedules, download the S’hail app (operated by RTA) or use Google Maps to plan your journey.

Sharjah to Dubai Bus Routes

Sharjah’s Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) operates intercity bus trips from the emirate’s major bus stations in Al Jubail, Al Rolla Terminal and Al Muwailah.

• 113G: Al Rolla Terminal Station to Dubai, Centrepoint Metro Station (Al Rashidiya Bus Station) – Dh12
• 308G: Al Rolla Terminal Station Rolla to Dubai, Jebel Ali Parco Hypermarket – Dh17
• 113MG: Sharjah, Al Muwailah Bus Station to Centrepoint Metro Station (Al Rashidiya Bus Station) – Dh12

The traffic congestion between Dubai and Sharjah has become such a pressing issue that even the Federal National Council has discussed solutions, as the situation impacts daily life significantly for thousands of commuters. While buses may still be affected by traffic during peak hours, they remain a cost-effective option for regular travel between the emirates.

Dubai to Sharjah Ferry: Skip the Traffic Entirely

Did you know you can travel from Dubai to Sharjah by ferry and skip the traffic altogether? Operated by the RTA, this ferry service has been running since 2023 (after resuming post-pandemic) and offers a 35-minute journey between the two emirates, providing a scenic alternative to road travel.

Location

• Dubai station: Al Ghubaiba Marine Station – located in the Al Fahidi district of Bur Dubai, and just a short walk from Al Ghubaiba Metro Station on the Green Line.
• Sharjah station: Aquarium Marine Station – located next to Sharjah Aquarium in the Al Majaz 3 area. You can reach the station via Mowasalat Bus Route 7 or Route 3.

Fare

• Regular ticket (Silver Class): Dh15 per person
• Gold Class Cabin: Dh25 per person
• Children under five: Free

Timings

Weekdays (Monday – Thursday)

• From Sharjah Aquarium Station: 7am, 8:30am, 1pm, 4:45pm and 6:15pm
• From Al Ghubaiba Station: 7:45am, 12pm, 4pm, 5:30pm and 7pm

Weekends (Friday – Sunday)

• From Sharjah Aquarium Station: 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 9pm
• From Al Ghubaiba Station: 3pm, 5pm, 8pm & 10pm

Pro tip: Book your ferry tickets online

To save time, book your ticket through RTA’s official marine transport website – rta.marine.ae. After purchasing, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. Just show the QR code at the gate to board, no need to queue at the counter.

The ferry service is particularly appealing for those looking to avoid the Dubai-Sharjah traffic crisis that has been well-documented. The comfortable journey offers scenic views of both emirates’ coastlines and provides a refreshing alternative to sitting in gridlocked traffic.

Nearest Dubai Metro Stations for Sharjah Commuters

Many Sharjah residents use the Dubai Metro stations closest to the emirate for their daily commute. These stations serve as crucial connection points in the inter-emirate transport network:

Stadium Metro Station

Located on the Green Line, Stadium Metro Station has become increasingly popular since the introduction of the intercity bus route E308. This station now serves as a key transit point for Sharjah commuters.

Etisalat by e& Metro Station

Also on the Green Line, Etisalat by e& Metro Station offers an intercity bus route and features a parking facility that can accommodate over 2,300 vehicles, making it a popular park-and-ride option for commuters coming from Sharjah.

Centrepoint Metro Station (Rashidiya)

Located on the Red Line, Centrepoint Metro Station in Rashidiya has a multi-storey parking facility and is frequently used by Sharjah residents who prefer to park their cars there and take the Red Line directly into Dubai. This helps them avoid the need to interchange between the Green and Red Lines.

Pro tip: Centrepoint Metro Station in Rashidiya has free multi-storey parking for Metro users. Just scan your Nol card when entering the parking, use the same card to ride the Metro, and scan it again when exiting the parking.

Comparing Your Options: Which is Best?

Each transport option between Dubai and Sharjah has its advantages. Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose the best option for your needs:

Bus Travel

• Cost: Most affordable at Dh12 per trip
• Frequency: High, with multiple routes and departures
• Travel time: Variable (30 minutes to 1 hour+) depending on traffic
• Comfort: Air-conditioned buses with seating
• Best for: Budget travelers and those near bus stations

Ferry Travel

• Cost: Slightly higher at Dh15-25 per trip
• Frequency: Limited to specific departure times
• Travel time: Consistent at approximately 35 minutes
• Comfort: Superior with scenic views and no traffic stress
• Best for: Commuters tired of traffic and those near the marine stations

Metro + Bus Combination

• Cost: Combined fare of approximately Dh15-20
• Frequency: High, with metro running every few minutes
• Travel time: 1 hour+ including transfers
• Comfort: Air-conditioned with mostly seated travel
• Best for: Those living or working near Metro stations

As recent initiatives for sustainable transport in Sharjah continue to develop, we may see even more eco-friendly options for this commute in the future.

Money-Saving Tips for Regular Commuters

If you’re a daily commuter between Dubai and Sharjah, these tips can help you maximize savings:

1. Get a Nol Card: Essential for Dubai’s public transport, a Nol card eliminates the need for cash transactions and sometimes offers discounted fares.
2. Consider a Sharjah Sayer Card: If you frequently use Sharjah’s buses, the Sayer Card (priced at Dh45 for one month or Dh90 for three months) can significantly reduce your travel costs.
3. Look for Student Discounts: Various discounts are available for students on public transport. Check with RTA and SRTA for the latest student offers.
4. Try the Park-and-Ride Option: If you have a car but want to avoid the full drive, use the free parking at Rashidiya or Etisalat Metro stations and continue your journey on public transport.
5. Book Ferry Tickets Online: Booking in advance through the RTA website ensures you get a seat and saves time at the terminal.

Planning Your Commute: Practical Considerations

Best Times to Travel

To avoid the heaviest crowds on public transport between Dubai and Sharjah:

• Morning rush hour: Avoid 6:30am-8:30am if possible
• Evening rush hour: Avoid 5:30pm-7:30pm if possible
• Best times: Mid-morning (10am-12pm) and early afternoon (2pm-4pm)

Weather Considerations

The UAE’s climate can impact your commute experience:

• Summer months (May-September): Ferry journeys offer pleasant air-conditioned cabins with sea breeze, while waiting for buses in the heat can be uncomfortable
• Winter months (October-April): All options are comfortable, with the ferry offering particularly scenic views on clear days

Connectivity and Last-Mile Options

Once you reach your destination in either emirate, consider these options for completing your journey:

• Dubai: Connect to the extensive Metro network, city buses, or use ride-hailing apps for short distances
• Sharjah: Use the growing network of Sharjah buses or taxis to reach your final destination

Future of Dubai-Sharjah Public Transport

The UAE continues to invest in improving public transport between these two major emirates. Future developments may include:

1. Extended Metro Lines: Potential future extensions of Dubai Metro towards Sharjah borders
2. New Ferry Routes: Additional marine transport options connecting more areas of both emirates
3. Enhanced Bus Networks: More direct routes with dedicated lanes to reduce journey times
4. Integrated Transport Systems: Better coordination between different transport modes for seamless journeys

The growing traffic crisis has pushed authorities to seek innovative solutions, with public transport enhancements being a critical part of the strategy.

Key Takeaway

Commuting between Dubai and Sharjah without a car or taxi is not only possible but can be efficient and cost-effective. Bus routes at Dh12 per trip connect major hubs between the emirates, while the Dh15 ferry service offers a traffic-free 35-minute journey with scenic views. For the best experience, consider using the Metro-connected stations like Stadium or Etisalat with park-and-ride facilities, and book ferry tickets online to avoid queues.

FAQs About Dubai-Sharjah Public Transport

What is the cheapest way to travel between Dubai and Sharjah?

The intercity buses operated by RTA (routes E303, E306, E307, E315, E308, and E307A) are the most affordable option at Dh12 per trip.

How long does the ferry take between Dubai and Sharjah?

The ferry journey takes approximately 35 minutes between Al Ghubaiba Marine Station in Dubai and Aquarium Marine Station in Sharjah.

Can I use my Nol card on Sharjah buses?

No, Nol cards work only on Dubai’s public transport. For Sharjah buses, you can use cash or the Sharjah Sayer Card.

Are there any night buses between Dubai and Sharjah?

Yes, some intercity bus routes operate until 1am, providing options for those traveling late in the evening.

Is there parking available at the ferry terminals?

Yes, there is parking for up to 300 cars at the Sharjah Aquarium Marine Station. At Al Ghubaiba in Dubai, nearby paid parking options are available.

How often do the buses run between Dubai and Sharjah?

During peak hours, buses typically run every 15-30 minutes. During off-peak hours, they may run every 30-60 minutes.

Is the ferry reliable during bad weather?

The ferry service may be suspended during severe weather conditions for safety reasons. It’s advisable to check the RTA website or app for any service disruptions during unstable weather.

Can I bring luggage on the intercity buses and ferry?

Yes, reasonable amounts of luggage are permitted on both buses and the ferry. However, very large items may be restricted.