Planning a trip from Dubai to Umm Al Quwain but don't want to break the bank? I've got you covered! After countless trips between these emirates, I've figured out all the best ways to make this journey. Whether you're trying to save some dirhams or just want to get there quickly, here's my personal breakdown of the four best routes. Trust me - by the time you finish reading this, you'll know exactly which option works best for you.
1. Bus and Taxi Combo (Best Overall)
This is my go-to route when I'm not in a huge rush but still want to get there without spending too much. It's kind of like putting together a travel puzzle - you'll use public buses for most of the way and grab a taxi for the final stretch.
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Cost: AED 132–160
Journey Overview:
- Step 1: Take the Line 102 bus from Global Village 1 to Rashidiya Bus Station Gate 11 (33 minutes, AED 7–10).
- Step 2: Transfer to the Dxb1 bus from Rashidiya to Al Musallah Bus Station in Sharjah (25 minutes, AED 15).
- Step 3: Take a bus from Sharjah to Umm Al Quwain (21 minutes, AED 15).
- Step 4: Finish your journey with a taxi from Lulu Centre Bus Stop to your destination in Umm Al Quwain (41 minutes, AED 95–120).
2. Taxi (Fastest Option)
Sometimes you just need to get there, right? A taxi is your best friend in this case. Yes, it'll cost you more, but you can't beat the convenience.
Estimated Travel Time: 58 minutes
Cost: AED 130–160
Journey Overview:
- Step 1: Book a taxi from Dubai.
- Step 2: Travel directly to Umm Al Quwain, covering approximately 78.6 km.
3. Self-Drive (Most Flexible)
Got access to a car? This might be your best bet. You can stop for karak chai whenever you want, and the fuel cost won't hurt your wallet too much.
Estimated Travel Time: 58 minutes
Cost: AED 32–47 (fuel estimate)
Journey Overview:
- Step 1: Start your drive from Dubai.
- Step 2: Drive approximately 78.6 km to Umm Al Quwain.
4. Line 103 Bus and Taxi (Cheapest)
If you're watching your dirhams and don't mind a longer journey, this route's for you. It takes more time, but your wallet will thank you.
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours 51 minutes
Cost: AED 126–159
Journey Overview:
- Step 1: Take the Line 103 bus from Global Village 1 to Union Square Bus Station (1 hour, AED 8–12).
- Step 2: Transfer to the E400 bus from Union Square to Ajman’s Al Musallah Bus Station (1 hour 5 minutes, AED 8–12).
- Step 3: Take a bus from Sharjah to Umm Al Quwain (21 minutes, AED 15).
- Step 4: Use a taxi for the final 40.7 km to your destination in Umm Al Quwain (41 minutes, AED 95–120).
If you're looking to venture beyond Dubai, consider exploring these notable routes, including Dubai to Dammam and Dubai to Muscat.
Look, getting to UAQ doesn't need to be complicated or expensive. Need to get there fast? Grab a taxi. Watching your spending? Mix and match buses and taxis. Got a car? Even better - just drive yourself! Pick whatever works best for your schedule and budget, and you'll be exploring UAQ before you know it. And hey, if you're making this trip during peak hours (7-9 AM or 5-7 PM), add an extra 30-45 minutes to your travel time just to be safe. Safe travels, and enjoy the journey!