Traveling between Dubai and Al Ain City is a common journey for both residents and tourists in the UAE, thanks to the efficient public transportation options. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable way to make the trip, this guide will outline key bus routes, fares, schedules, and helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether traveling for leisure or work, you’ll find everything you need to know about the bus options available.
1. Line 104 and E201 Buses - Best Option
Combining the Line 104 bus from Global Village with the E201 bus offers a convenient route to Al Ain City with just one transfer. This route is optimal for those looking for a balance between travel time and minimal transfers.
- Route: Global Village (Dubai) to Al Ain Central Bus Station (Al Ain)
- Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours 56 minutes
- Fare: AED 28–51
- Frequency: Regularly throughout the day
Journey Overview:
Step 1: Begin your journey at Global Village in Dubai. Take the Line 104 bus heading towards Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. The trip takes about 1 hour and stops at key points such as Rebat Street.
- Bus Line: 104
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Key Stops: Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Al Karama
Step 2: Transfer at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. From here, board the E201 bus bound for Al Ain. This bus operates regularly and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, stopping at various landmarks along the way.
- Bus Line: E201
- Key Stops: Wasl Club, Nad Al Sheba, Al Qattara Oasis, Al Ain Gift Markets
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Step 3: Arrive at Al Ain Central Bus Station. From here, you can easily explore the city or take local transport to your destination.
Bus Timings
| From Global Village | To Ghubaiba Bus Station |
| 15:35 - 00:20 | 14:52 - 23:37 |
| From Ghubaiba Bus Station | To Al Ain Bus Station |
| 03:20 - 22:00 | 06:00 - 00:50 |
2. Line 102, Metro, and E201 Buses - Alternate Option
This route is ideal if you are near a metro station in Dubai and prefer to use both the metro and buses for your journey to Al Ain.
- Route: Global Village (Dubai) via Metro and E201 to Al Ain Central Bus Station
- Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours 4 minutes
- Fare: AED 34–61
Journey Overview:
Step 1: Take the Line 102 bus from Global Village to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. This leg of the trip lasts about 1 hour.
- Bus Line: 102
- Duration: 1 hour
Step 2: From Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, take the metro to Union Metro Station and transfer to the E201 bus heading to Al Ain.
- Metro Transfer: Approximately 45 minutes
- Bus Line: E201
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Step 3: Arrive at Al Ain Central Bus Station, ready to explore the attractions of Al Ain City.
Bus Timings
| From Global Village | To Rashidiya Bus Station |
| 15:30 - 00:30 | 14:45 - 23:45 |
| From Ghubaiba Bus Station | To Al Ain Bus Station |
| 03:20 - 22:00 | 06:00 - 00:50 |
3. Line 104 Bus, E201 Bus via Al Madina Petrol Station
This route provides an alternative option, ideal for those looking to visit landmarks like Al Madina Petrol Station before heading to Al Ain.
- Route: Global Village to Al Ain City via Al Madina Petrol Station
- Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours 54 minutes
- Fare: AED 33–51
Journey Overview:
Step 1: Catch the Line 104 bus from Global Village to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, a 1-hour ride.
- Duration: 1 hour
Step 2: Transfer at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and board the E201 bus, which stops at Al Madina Petrol Station before reaching Al Ain.
- Duration: 2 hours 13 minutes
- Key Stops: Wasl Club, Emirates NBD, Al Ain Gift Markets, Al Slimi Park, Al Madina Petrol Station
Step 3: Arrive at Al Ain Central Bus Station to continue your day in Al Ain.
Bus Timings
| From Global Village | To Ghubaiba Bus Station |
| 15:35 - 00:20 | 14:52 - 23:37 |
| From Ghubaiba Bus Station | To Al Ain Bus Station |
| 03:20 - 22:00 | 06:00 - 00:50 |
4. Line 103 and E303 Buses - Longest Route
If you start from Union Metro Station and are not in a hurry, this route offers a scenic journey to Al Ain.
- Route: Union Metro Station (Dubai) to Al Ain Central Bus Station
- Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours 14 minutes
- Fare: AED 41–56
Journey Overview:
Step 1: From Union Metro Station, walk to Union Square Bus Station and take the Line 103 bus to Al Karama.
- Bus Line: 103
- Duration: 1 hour
Step 2: Transfer to E303 bus from Union Square Bus Station to Sharjah’s Al Jubail Bus Station, then continue with Line 118 to Al Ain Central Bus Station.
- Key Stops: Salah Al Din Metro, Sharjah Mamzar, Al Ain Gift Markets
- Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Bus Timings
| From Global Village | To Union Square Bus Station |
| 15:30 - 00:15 | 14:15 - 22:55 |
| From Union Square Bus Station | To Sharjah — Al Jubail Bus Station |
| 06:30 - 23:40 | 05:30 - 22:45 |
| From Al Jubail Bus Terminal | To Al Ain Bus Station |
| 03:45 - 22:00 | 06:00 - 00:30 |
Travel Tips
- Check Schedules: Buses have fixed timings, so planning ahead will save you time. Use the RTA app or website for real-time updates.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Rush hours (5 PM to 7 PM) can make buses crowded; consider traveling during off-peak times.
- Bring Essentials: The long journey can be tiring, so bring water and snacks to stay refreshed.
- Nearby Attractions: If starting at Union Metro Station, consider visiting Deira’s markets before departure.
Some other interesting trips you can explore are from Dubai to Ajman and the trip from Ajman to Dubai.
Traveling from Dubai to Al Ain City is a cost-effective and straightforward option with multiple bus routes available. Whether you choose the Line 104 and E201 for a faster ride or the Line 103 and E303 for a scenic journey, this guide ensures you are well-prepared for your adventure. With reliable schedules and convenient transfers, exploring Al Ain has never been easier. Enjoy your trip and make the most of your visit to this vibrant city!
