If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable way to travel between Al Ghubaiba and International City in Dubai, the X23 bus route is an excellent option. If public transport is your regular ride or you’re visiting the city for the first time, this guide will help you.
This guide explains all you need to know about the X23 bus route, including its hours, boarding and exit points, cost, and useful tips.
Overview of the X23 Bus
The bus takes commuters directly from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai to the International City Bus Station (Cluster 29). The express route is 25 kilometers long and is meant for quick travel. So, people living in the area and commuters continue to choose the bus every day.
Key Route Details
- Route: Start at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and get off at International City Bus Station.
- Total Distance: 25 km
- Total Journey Time: It is expected that the trip will take around 32 minutes.
- Fare: AED 3, and a NOL Card must be used.
Students in the X23 travel to reliable locations in Dubai such as Oud Metha, Ras Al Khor, and a few sectors in International City.
X23 Bus Route
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Pro Tips for Taking the X23 Bus
1. Use a NOL Card
A deposit of AED 3 on your Nol card is required to use the bus service. Before you set off, top up your gas tank to avoid being stuck at a gas station.
2. Travel Off-Peak If You Can
If you visit in the morning or evening, you’ll likely have more space to yourself. Between 7 and 9 in the morning and from 5 to 8 in the evening, the venue is busiest.
3. Plan Stop Locations in Advance
If you’re not sure when to get off, you can use either RTA S’hail or Google Maps to follow the bus as it travels.
4. Stay Cool in the Heat
Riding on a cool bus is very helpful, but chilling in either the Ras Al Khor or Textile City terminals can feel a bit tough.
5. Keep Emergency Options Ready
If you can’t catch the last bus (11 PM), use one of these services: Careem, Uber, or try the metro if you’re not far from BurJuman or Oud Metha.
Nearby Landmarks Along the Route
Important areas are placed either beside or just a short distance from the X23.
From Al Ghubaiba Side
- Al Ghubaiba Metro Station
- Heritage Village / Dubai Creek
- BurJuman Mall
- Wafi Mall
- Latifa Hospital
From International City Side
- Dragon Mart
- CBD Cluster Business Centers
- Morocco and China Clusters
- Dubai Textile City
- Kibsons HQ
I pay for shopping, business and healthcare using cards. If you’d like to do something besides just sitting on the train, you have a lot of options.
FAQs
1. What does it cost to ride the X23 bus in Dubai?
When you ride the bus with an NOL card, you must pay only AED 3. Always make sure your NOL card has credit before boarding the bus.
2. Where does the X23 bus start and end?
It is possible to take the X23 from Al Ghubaiba Station in Bur Dubai to International City Bus Station (Cluster 29).
3. What are the X23 bus timings?
- From Al Ghubaiba Station: the bus runs daily from 5 AM to 11 PM
- From International City:
- Monday to Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:19 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:15 PM
Check the RTA S’hail app for live updates whenever it is possible.
4. How long does the X23 bus ride take?
Trips to the airport can be finished in as little as 32 minutes, with another 5 or so minutes for going through traffic. The train gets there quicker because it stops less than buses do.
5. Does the X23 run on Fridays and public holidays?
The X23 express buses are on the same schedule every day, including Fridays and holidays, unless RTA sends a different message.
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Final Words
Getting from Al Ghubaiba to International City can be done fast, cheap, and with confidence using the X23 bus route. If working is the plan, meeting someone outside, or finding a new place to go, you can quickly reach your destination by taking the X23 bus.
If you follow the arrangement and suggestions we’ve explained, your journey on the X23 will be simple and pleasant.
