Traveling between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah by bus is an affordable and convenient option for many residents and visitors in the UAE. With the Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi (DoT) and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai offering several bus services, commuting between these two emirates is easier than ever.
In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide on the bus services connecting Abu Dhabi to Sharjah, focusing on routes 117, E101, and E307. You’ll find detailed information about bus timings, routes, ticket prices, and practical tips to ensure a smooth journey.
Overview of Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus Timings
There are three main bus routes that connect Abu Dhabi to Sharjah:
- 117 Bus Service: Direct route from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station.
- E101 Bus Service: Route from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Ibn Battuta Metro Station, Dubai, with further connections to Sharjah.
- E307 Bus Service: Route from Abu Dhabi to Union Square, Dubai, and then to Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah.
Each bus service offers different routes, catering to various needs and preferences. Below is a detailed look at each service.
117 Bus Service: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station
The 117 bus route offers a direct connection between Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Sharjah’s Al Jubail Bus Station, making it a preferred choice for those who want a straightforward journey without transfers.
Timings and Frequency:
- First Bus: Departs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station at 05:00 AM.
- Last Bus: Leaves at 10:30 PM.
- Frequency: Every 60 minutes.
With a bus every hour, the 117 service ensures minimal waiting time, making it a reliable option for travelers.
Journey Duration:
- The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This route is direct, but the travel time may vary during peak hours.
Ticket Prices:
- A one-way ticket costs approximately AED 35, which is highly economical compared to other modes of transport like taxis or car rentals.
Route Details:
Major Stops on the 117 Route:
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- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: The main bus station in Abu Dhabi, serving as the starting point.
- Al Shahama Bus Station: A key stop for travelers from the outskirts of Abu Dhabi.
- Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station: The final stop, conveniently located in central Sharjah, close to various attractions and local transport links.
The 117 route is particularly suited for those seeking a direct, cost-effective way to travel between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah without the need for transfers or additional transport.
| Departure Time (From Abu Dhabi) | Arrival Time (At Sharjah) | Frequency | Estimated Duration |
| 05:00 | 08:30 | Every 60 mins | 3.5-4 hours |
| 07:00 | 10:30 | Every 60 mins | 3.5-4 hours |
| 10:00 | 13:30 | Every 60 mins | 3.5-4 hours |
| 13:00 | 16:30 | Every 60 mins | 3.5-4 hours |
| 16:00 | 19:30 | Every 60 mins | 3.5-4 hours |
| 20:30 | 00:00 | Every 60 mins | 3.5-4 hours |
E101 Bus Service: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Ibn Battuta Metro Station, Dubai
The E101 bus route connects the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station with the Ibn Battuta Metro Station in Dubai, offering an indirect but flexible route to Sharjah. From Ibn Battuta, passengers can transfer to the E307 or other local buses to reach Sharjah.
Timings and Frequency:
- First Bus: Departs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station at 05:00 AM.
- Last Bus: Leaves at 11:00 PM.
- Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes.
Journey Duration:
- The journey from Abu Dhabi to Ibn Battuta takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Additional time should be considered for transferring to another bus for the onward journey to Sharjah.
Ticket Prices:
- The fare to Ibn Battuta is AED 25 for a one-way trip. Passengers will need to pay an additional fare for the subsequent journey to Sharjah.
Route Details:
Key Stops on the E101 Route:
-
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: Departure point.
- Jebel Ali Free Zone: A stop for those heading to the outskirts of Dubai.
- Ibn Battuta Metro Station, Dubai: The endpoint where passengers can transfer to the E307 or other buses to continue to Sharjah.
- Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station: The last destination, which is ideally situated in Sharjah’s downtown, near a number of attractions and local transportation options.
The E101 is ideal for travelers who wish to explore parts of Dubai before heading to Sharjah or for those who live or work near Ibn Battuta.
| Departure Time (From Abu Dhabi) | Arrival Time (At Ibn Battuta) | Frequency | Estimated Duration |
| 05:00 | 07:00 | Every 20-30 mins | 1.5-2 hours |
| 08:00 | 10:00 | Every 20-30 mins | 1.5-2 hours |
| 12:00 | 14:00 | Every 20-30 mins | 1.5-2 hours |
| 15:00 | 17:00 | Every 20-30 mins | 1.5-2 hours |
| 18:00 | 20:00 | Every 20-30 mins | 1.5-2 hours |
| 21:00 | 23:00 | Every 20-30 mins | 1.5-2 hours |
E307 Bus Service: Abu Dhabi to Union Square, Dubai, and Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah
The E307 bus route provides a scenic journey, connecting Abu Dhabi to Union Square in Dubai and then onward to Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah. This route is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the sights of Dubai before reaching Sharjah.
Timings and Frequency:
- First Bus: Starts from Abu Dhabi at 06:00 AM.
- Last Bus: Departs at 10:00 PM.
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes.
Journey Duration:
- The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions and time of day. This route allows passengers to explore Dubai before continuing to Sharjah.
Ticket Prices:
- The fare from Abu Dhabi to Union Square is AED 25, with an additional fare of AED 10 for the journey from Union Square to Sharjah.
Route Details:
Important Stops on the E307 Route:
-
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: Starting point in Abu Dhabi.
- Union Square Bus Station, Dubai: A major bus terminal in Dubai where passengers can transfer to other buses.
- Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station: The final destination in Sharjah.
This route is ideal for those who wish to experience Dubai’s vibrant city life before heading to Sharjah.
| Departure Time (From Abu Dhabi) | Arrival Time (At Union Square) | Arrival Time (At Sharjah) | Frequency | Estimated Duration |
| 06:00 | 08:30 | 09:30 | Every 30 mins | 3-4 hours |
| 09:00 | 11:30 | 12:30 | Every 30 mins | 3-4 hours |
| 13:00 | 15:30 | 16:30 | Every 30 mins | 3-4 hours |
| 16:00 | 18:30 | 19:30 | Every 30 mins | 3-4 hours |
| 19:00 | 21:30 | 22:30 | Every 30 mins | 3-4 hours |
Tips for Travelers
- Plan Your Journey Ahead: Always check the bus schedules on the RTA or DoT websites or apps for real-time updates, especially during weekends or public holidays.
- Arrive Early at the Bus Station: To secure a seat, arrive at least 15 minutes before the bus departure, particularly during peak travel times.
- Use an NOL Card: An NOL card is a convenient payment method for bus fares. Ensure your card is topped up before your journey.
- Pack Light and Carry Essentials: Given the long journey time, bring water, snacks, and any other essentials to stay comfortable.
- Consider Different Routes: Depending on your starting point in Abu Dhabi or your final destination in Sharjah, different bus routes may offer more convenience.
Additional Information About Bus Services
- Comfort and Amenities: All buses are air-conditioned with comfortable seating to ensure a pleasant travel experience.
- Free Wi-Fi: Some buses provide free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected during your trip.
- Accessibility: Buses have facilities to accommodate passengers with special needs, including ramps and designated seating.
Comparing Travel Options: Bus vs. Taxi vs. Car Rentals
While buses are the most economical choice for traveling between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, other options are available:
Taxis
- Cost: A taxi ride from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah typically costs around AED 300 to AED 400, depending on the route and traffic.
- Benefits: Offers direct, door-to-door service without any transfers.
- Drawbacks: Much more expensive compared to bus travel, especially for regular commuters.
Car Rentals
- Cost: Car rental rates vary based on the type of vehicle, duration, and additional costs like fuel and tolls.
- Benefits: Provides flexibility in terms of travel time and route.
- Drawbacks: Higher costs than buses and requires dealing with traffic and parking issues.
Top Attractions to Explore in Sharjah
Upon reaching Sharjah, you’ll find a host of exciting attractions in Sharjah to explore :
1. Sharjah Arts Museum
This museum is the largest in the UAE, featuring a wide range of art collections and exhibitions, from classic to contemporary. It is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in Middle Eastern culture.
2. Blue Souk (Central Market)
Known for its distinctive blue-tiled architecture, the Blue Souk is a shopping hub offering traditional Arabic goods, gold, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. It is an excellent place to immerse yourself in local culture.
3. Al Majaz Waterfront
A beautiful destination featuring green parks, fountains, cafes, and family-friendly attractions. Perfect for an evening stroll or a day out with family.
4. Mleiha Archaeological Centre
Located on the outskirts of Sharjah, this center offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient history of the region, with archaeological sites, desert safaris, and other outdoor activities.
5. Sharjah Classic Car Museum
Home to over 100 classic cars, this museum is perfect for car enthusiasts. It showcases the evolution of automobiles, with models dating back to the early 20th century.
Additional Tips for Traveling Between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
1. Avoid Peak Travel Times: Buses can become crowded during peak hours, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons. Off-peak travel times can offer a more comfortable experience.
2. Stay Informed About Traffic and Schedule Changes: Use apps like the RTA’s ‘Wojhati’ or DoT’s ‘Darbi’ to get real-time updates on traffic conditions and bus schedules.
3. Bring a Portable Charger: A portable charger is handy for keeping your devices powered during the long journey.
4. Dress Comfortably and Stay Hydrated: Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, especially if traveling during the warmer months.
5. Utilize Public Transport Options in Sharjah: Once you arrive in Sharjah, take advantage of the city’s well-developed public transportation network, which includes buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber. These options make it easy to explore the local attractions and get around the city efficiently.
Enjoy a Seamless Journey from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah
Traveling by bus from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah is a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly option for residents and visitors alike. Whether you choose the direct 117 route, the E101 with a stop in Dubai, or the E307 route via Union Square, there are multiple options to suit your schedule and preferences.
By planning ahead, using an NOL card, and following the tips provided, you can ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Once in Sharjah, there are countless attractions and activities to enjoy, from cultural landmarks and historic sites to modern malls and family-friendly destinations.
Whether you are commuting for work, visiting family, or exploring new places, the bus services between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah provide a reliable and budget-friendly choice for all. Embrace the journey and discover the things to do in Sharjah!
Final Thoughts: Why Choose the Bus?
Opting for bus travel between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah is not just cost-effective; it’s also a sustainable choice that helps reduce traffic congestion and minimizes your carbon footprint. Traveling by bus allows you to relax, read, work, or simply enjoy the scenery while letting someone else handle the driving.
So, whether you’re commuting daily, planning a weekend getaway, or exploring new destinations, consider taking the bus on your next trip from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah. It’s a smart, safe, and environmentally responsible way to travel. Safe travels!
FAQ
Can I use an NOL card for the bus fare from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?
No, the NOL card is primarily for RTA services in Dubai. You may need to pay separately for routes managed by the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi.
How much does a bus ticket from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah cost?
A one-way ticket costs approximately AED 35 for the 117 direct route. Additional fares may apply for transfers via Dubai.
Are there buses that operate at night between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah?
No, there are no dedicated night buses between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The last buses usually depart around 10:00 or 11:00 PM.
How long does it take to travel from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah by bus?
The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route.
Can I carry luggage on the bus from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?
Yes, you can carry personal luggage, but it’s advisable to check specific guidelines with the DoT or RTA.
Are there rest stops during the bus journey from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?
No, the buses are designed for direct travel with minimal stops. Plan ahead and carry necessary items.
Are the buses between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah air-conditioned?
Yes, all buses are air-conditioned and provide comfortable seating for passengers.
Can I book my bus ticket online?
Yes, tickets can be booked online via the RTA or DoT websites or mobile apps.
What is the frequency of the bus services from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?
The frequency varies by route: 117 buses run every 60 minutes, E101 buses every 20-30 minutes, and E307 buses every 30 minutes.
Is it safe to travel by bus from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?
Yes, traveling by bus is safe, with high safety standards maintained by both the RTA and DoT, including regular vehicle checks and trained drivers.
