Dubai’s extensive public transportation system, managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), is designed to accommodate a large number of commuters every day. The RTA Dubai buses are a crucial part of this system, with a fleet of 1,518 buses operating across the Emirate. This article explores the Express Bus Routes provided by RTA Dubai, offering you efficient travel options to navigate the city.
Express Bus Routes
For the fastest travel options, consider using the Express Bus Routes, which provide direct connections across the city:
| Bus ID | From | To |
| 13B | Gold Souq Bus Station | Al Qusais Bus Station |
| 91A | Gold Souq Bus Station | Jebel Ali Bus Station |
| X02 | Union MS | Al Satwa |
| X13 | LuLu Village | Al Satwa Bus Station |
| X22 | Al Qusais Industrial Area 2 | Business Bay MS |
| X23 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | International City |
| X25 | Al Karama Bus Station | Silicon Oasis HQ |
| X28 | LuLu Village | Dubai Internet City MS |
| X64 | Al Baraha Bus Station | Ras Al Khor |
| X92 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Dubai Investment Park |
| X94 | Gold Souq Bus Station | Dubai Investment Park |
These routes are designed for quick and efficient travel, reducing the time spent in transit and helping you reach your destination swiftly.
Dubai Bus Fares
Dubai is divided into seven fare zones. The cost of a bus ride depends on the number of zones traveled. Passengers can transfer between buses, metros, trams, and water buses within different zones. Transfers must occur within 30 minutes to be counted as a single trip; otherwise, two separate fares apply.
Fare Structure:
| Card Type | Fare within 1 Zone | Fare for 2 Adjacent Zones | Fare for More than 2 Zones |
| Silver Card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.5 |
| Gold Card | AED 6 | AED 10 | AED 15 |
| Blue Personal Card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.5 |
| Red Card (Ticket) | AED 4 | AED 6 | AED 8.5 |
Discounts: Students, social affairs beneficiaries, senior citizens, and residents with Blue Personal Cards receive up to 50% off. Travel within the city and nearby areas is free for People of Determination and children aged 5 years or under.
Penalties: Using invalid or expired NOL cards, not providing a NOL card upon request, or using a card designated to someone else results in fines. Passengers using fake NOL cards face a fine of AED 500.
Facilities on RTA Dubai Buses
RTA buses and stations are equipped with numerous facilities for commuter convenience:
- Air-Conditioned Stations and Buses: Ensuring comfort in Dubai’s hot climate.
- Information Screens: Displaying route and stop information.
- Alert Sounds and Flashlight Signals: Assisting passengers with hearing impairments.
- Dedicated Spaces: For People of Determination and separate sections for females and children.
- Vending Machines and Cafeterias: Available at main bus stops.
- NOL Top-Up Machines: Located at major bus stops.
- Bicycle Parking and Taxi Services: Available at main stations.
- E-Card Machines: For easy card management.
General Guidelines
- Reserved seating behind the driver is for ladies and children.
- Eating, drinking, smoking, spitting, and littering are prohibited.
- Animals and heavy luggage are not allowed.
- Noise and musical instruments are not permitted on the bus.
Contact Information for RTA Dubai
For assistance, you can reach RTA Dubai through various channels:
- Email: ASK@rta.ae
- Phone: 800-90-90
- Website: RTA Dubai Official Website
- Customer Happiness Centres: Located in Deira, Al Aweer, Al Kifaf, Umm Ramool, Al Twar, Al Barsha, and Al Manarah.
Comparison of RTA Dubai Bus Route Types
| Bus Route Type | Purpose | Coverage Area | Key Characteristics |
| RTA Dubai Express Bus Routes | Fast and direct connections to major destinations | Major hubs and key locations within Dubai | Fewer stops; faster travel time; prefixed with "E" |
| RTA Dubai Feeder Bus Routes | Connects residential areas to main metro stations | Residential neighborhoods and metro stations | Smaller, local routes feeding into larger transport systems |
| RTA Urban CBD Bus Routes | Serves the Central Business District (CBD) | Central business areas of Dubai | High frequency; caters to office commuters |
| RTA Urban Bus Routes | General city transportation | Various city areas across Dubai | Extensive network; connects different neighborhoods and commercial areas |
| RTA Intercity Routes | Links Dubai to neighboring cities | Routes to cities like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, etc. | Longer routes; prefixed with "E" for intercity travel |
By familiarizing yourself with these routes and facilities, you can make the most of Dubai’s public transport system, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. Embracing the express bus routes will save you time and streamline your commutes across the city. With the added convenience of modern amenities and clear information, navigating Dubai has never been easier.
