Abu Dhabi to Sharjah: Bus Timings, Routes, & Tips

Traveling between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah by bus is a popular and cost-effective option. Taking a bus from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah and vice versa is quite economical. Regardless of your purpose of commutation to and from work, traveling for fun, or trips to see relatives and friends, the bus service provides a credible mode of transport. In this detailed guide, I shall share with you the necessary timetable of bus services, bus routes, useful advice, and other/alternative means of transport.

Bus Timings: Schedules for Abu Dhabi to Sharjah

Knowledge of bus schedules proves an important part of planning when traveling. Here’s an overview of the Abu Dhabi to Sharjah bus timing details:

General Schedule Overview

• Frequent Departures: Many buses operate during the day so that people can find a bus that they can board at their chosen time.
• Travel Duration: The trip generally costs between 2.5 and 3 hours, depending on traffic congestion.

Bus Route: Abu Dhabi to Sharjah

The main bus terminal with the route between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah is easy to organize and find.

Main Stops

1. Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: It becomes a starting point for most buses to Sharjah. It should also be noted that the site is strategically located and can readily be accessed by other means of transport within Abu Dhabi.
2. Al Jubail Bus Terminal, Sharjah: The final destination in Sharjah, conveniently located near many key areas within the city.

Route Highlights

• Smooth Connectivity: It has a direct path free from twists and turns, and bends of the bus.
• Scenic Views: Along the way, you’ll get glimpses of the UAE’s diverse landscapes, from urban settings to stretches of desert.

Ticket Information

• Cost: The tickets may cost as little as AED 25–40; thus, it can be regarded as one of the cheapest kinds of traveling.
• Purchasing Options: Tickets can be bought online through the website, by mobile phone, or in person at the bus terminal. Some useful information that will help avoid problems during the journey.

Read Also: Ireland Visa Application Made Easy: Dubai Residents

Essential Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey

To make your travel experience seamless, I’ve compiled some practical tips for you:

Peak Hours

• To avoid many people in buses or traffic jams, especially in the morning going to work or in the evening going home, steer clear of rush hour.

Luggage Guidelines

• Most buses have luggage restrictions. It’s wise to check with the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) for details about size and weight limits.

Dress Comfortably

• Choose attire that allows for comfort during the 2.5–3-hour journey. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal for the UAE’s climate.

Stay Informed

• Keep an eye on traffic updates and bus schedule changes, particularly during public holidays or events.

Alternative Travel Options Between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah

Since buses are the most affordable means of transport, there are other ways of getting from one emirate to the other if desired.

1. Taxi Services

• Advantages: Taxis are considered to be faster than buses; they have a straight and quicker way to the destination.
• Cost: The charges vary from AED 250–300 for one trip.
• Convenience: Ideal for those traveling with large luggage or in a group.

2. Car Rentals

• Flexibility: Renting a car makes you flexible to move around as a result of its flexibility.
• Requirements: Applicant must possess a valid UAE driving license.
• Cost: For daily car rentals, the costs begin from AED 100 but exclude fuel and toll fees.

3. Public Transport with Transfers

• Overview: You can use buses and the metro to get to Sharjah for less.
• Time Commitment: This option is more time-consuming due to multiple transfers.
• Budget-Friendly: A great option if you’re not in a rush.

Read Also: Azerbaijan Visa for UAE Residents: Easy Guide!

Planning the Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Trip: What the Latest Guides Say

Bus fares and timetables change, so before I rely on any number I like to compare it against a recent source. I checked a Gulf News guide to intercity buses from Abu Dhabi, last updated in July 2024, and it shows a slightly different picture from what many older pages say.

What Gulf News Reports for the Sharjah Route

• Operator: the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA).
• Bus 117 runs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Al Jubail Station in Sharjah.
• Bus 118 links Al Ain Central Bus Station with Al Jubail Station.
• Fare: Dh30, paid in cash to the driver, according to that article.
• Timings: the article does not list them. It tells readers to check the intercity bus schedule on the SRTA website.

Because that guide is from 2024, treat the fare as a guide only and confirm it on the SRTA website or at the ticket counter. Carry small notes in case the driver cannot change large ones.

If You Are Heading to Dubai First

Many people travelling between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah think of going via Dubai. The same Gulf News guide says the Abu Dhabi to Dubai buses are run by the RTA, cost Dh25 and are paid with a nol card, with services from about 4am to 1am. Tickets can be booked on the RTA website, and Dubai trip times are in the S’hail app. Those are separate services, so check each operator’s own schedule before you build a connection around them.

Practical Tips

• Take a screenshot of the route number and stop name before you travel so you can show it to staff.
• Arrive early at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. Services can leave from different bays and signs are the quickest way to find yours.
• Allow extra time at the Sharjah end during rush hours, as roads around the city centre are busy.
• Keep your phone charged. Navigation and the operator’s app help if a bus is delayed.
• If you travel with a lot of luggage, ask the operator about its rules before you buy.

Where the timings in this post and the operator’s website disagree, trust the operator. It is the only place that will show current changes such as holiday schedules.

One more habit that helps: note the date of the source you are using. The Gulf News guide I checked was last updated in July 2024, and fares, routes and bus numbers can change after that. If a price at the counter differs from what you read here, the price at the counter is the one that counts, and asking the staff which stop your bus leaves from is always worthwhile.

Related guides

• Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus 117: Updated Timings, Fares & Route
• Al Ain to Abu Dhabi Bus: X90 Schedule & Price in 2026
• Al Ain to Sharjah Bus: Schedule, Price, & Stops (118 Route)
• E315 Bus Route (2026): Dubai–Sharjah Timings & Fare Guide
• Abu Dhabi A1 Bus Route 2026: Complete Guide & Stops

Final Words

It is common to find that many people prefer to travel by bus when they are traveling from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah. It is relatively popular among the inhabitants and the guests of the city because of frequent timetables, comfortable buses, as well as low fares. No matter if you are going to work or just for a ride, some preparation and thinking about offered in this article will make the journey hitch-free.

Take the time to choose the travel method that best fits your needs, and enjoy the ride between these vibrant Emirates!