Dubai's public transport network is expansive and well-organized, extending far beyond the city's limits to connect with neighboring regions. Managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the intercity bus routes are an essential part of Dubai's public transportation system, ensuring seamless travel to various cities across the Emirates. Here’s a comprehensive look at the RTA's intercity bus routes and essential details for travelers.
Intercity Bus Routes
The RTA's intercity bus routes are pivotal for connecting Dubai with other major cities in the Emirates. Here’s a list of the operational routes:
| Bus ID | From | To |
| E100 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| E101 | Ibn Battuta Bus Station | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| E102 | Ibn Battuta Bus Station | Mussafa Shabia Bus Station |
| E16 | Al Sabkha Bus Station | Hatta Bus Station |
| E201 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Al Ain Bus Station |
| E301 | Al Ahli Club | Sharjah, Al Taawun Terminus |
| E303 | Union Square MS | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah |
| E304 | Al Satwa Bus Station | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah |
| E306 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah |
| E307 | Deira City Center Bus Station | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah |
| E315 | Etisalat Metro Station | Muwaileh, Sharjah |
| E316 | Al Rashidiya Bus Station | Sharjah University |
| E400 | Union Square MS | Ajman Bus Station |
| E411 | Etisalat Metro Station | Ajman Bus Station |
| E700 | Etisalat Metro Station | Fujairah |
| E303A | Al Sabkha Bus Station | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah |
| E307A | Abu Hail Metro Station | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah |
These intercity routes provide essential connections for residents and visitors traveling between Dubai and other major cities, ensuring convenient and efficient transport options across the region.
Dubai Bus Fares
Dubai’s fare system is zone-based, with different rates depending on the distance traveled:
| Card Type | Fare for 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, senior citizens, and residents with blue personal cards receive up to 50% off, while People of Determination and children under 5 travel free within the city and neighboring areas.
Penalties: Using invalid, expired, or incorrect NOL cards, or using a fake card, incurs fines ranging from AED 200 to AED 500.
Facilities in RTA Dubai Buses
RTA buses and stations are equipped with various facilities to enhance passenger comfort:
- Air-Conditioned Stations and Buses: 17 bus stations and 554 waiting areas with climate control
- Information Displays: Screens showing stops and routes
- Accessibility Features: Flashlight signals and dedicated spaces for People of Determination
- Additional Amenities: Vending machines, cafeterias, NOL top-up machines, and bicycle parking at main stops
General Guidelines for Bus Use
To ensure a pleasant experience for all passengers, the following rules apply:
- Reserved Seating: The three rows behind the driver are reserved for women and children.
- Prohibitions: Eating, drinking, smoking, and carrying heavy luggage are not allowed.
- Behavior: Spitting, littering, and playing musical instruments are prohibited.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact the RTA through:
- Email: ASK@rta.ae
- Phone: 800-90-90
- Address: Roads & Transport Authority, P.O. Box 118899, Dubai, UAE
- 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 |
In conclusion, RTA’s intercity bus routes offer efficient connections between Dubai and major cities across the Emirates. With a broad network and various fare options, including discounts, the service meets diverse passenger needs. The well-equipped buses and facilities ensure a comfortable travel experience. Whether for daily commutes or longer journeys, RTA’s buses enhance connectivity and convenience.
