How to Travel From Dubai to Sharjah

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Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Why This Route Matters
  3. Key Transport Options (Quick Overview)
  4. How To Choose The Best Option — Decision Framework
  5. The Intercity Bus: Best Budget Choice
  6. The Ferry: Scenic, Predictable, and Traffic-Free
  7. Taxis and Metered Inter-Emirate Travel
  8. Ride-Hailing Apps: Convenience and Price Transparency
  9. Driving Yourself: Routes, Parking, and Practicalities
  10. Airport Transfers: Dubai to Sharjah International Airport
  11. Accessibility, Women & Family-Friendly Considerations
  12. Safety, Legal, and Cultural Notes
  13. Step-by-Step Sample Itineraries (Actionable Plans)
  14. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
  15. Local Arrival: What To Do Once You Land in Sharjah
  16. Money and Payment Methods
  17. Sustainability and Responsible Travel
  18. How This Fits Into Broader Regional Travel Planning
  19. Two Simple Checklists (One for Before You Leave, One for On Arrival)
  20. Final Planning Framework — A 3-Step Blueprint to Execute Any Transfer Smoothly
  21. Conclusion
  22. Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Short answer: The easiest ways to travel from Dubai to Sharjah are by intercity bus, taxi or ride-share, driving a rental car, or taking the RTA ferry. Buses are the most budget-friendly (around AED 12–15), taxis and ride-hailing apps are fastest and most convenient, and the ferry offers a scenic 35-minute alternative that avoids road congestion. This article explains every practical option, step-by-step, with timing, cost, booking, and arrival logistics so you can choose the best method for your needs.

This post is written by Saudi Travel & Leisure’s KSA Travel Insider — a practical, on-the-ground resource that mixes inspirational travel storytelling with field-tested planning frameworks. My aim here is to turn the common question “how to travel from Dubai to Sharjah” into a predictable, low-stress process: what to pick, how to book, what to expect on arrival, and how to move around once you’re in Sharjah. You’ll find clear comparisons, step-by-step instructions for each method, real-world cost expectations, and the small operational details that save time and money.

My main message: with the right choice of transport and a few practical tricks, commuting between Dubai and Sharjah becomes simple — whether you’re on a tight budget, traveling with family, or aiming for speed and comfort.

Why This Route Matters

Dubai and Sharjah share a practical and cultural connection. Millions of commuters, shoppers, students, and tourists travel this corridor daily. Sharjah offers museums, waterfront promenades, traditional souks, and cultural attractions that pair well with time in Dubai. With traffic patterns and surcharge rules, planning ahead turns a potentially frustrating transfer into a smooth, enjoyable trip.

Sharjah’s urban layout means arrival points matter: Al Jubail Bus Station places you near the city center; Aquarium Marine Station drops you next to Al Majaz and the Sharjah Corniche; Al Rolla and Al Muwailah connect to other neighborhoods. Choosing the correct transport mode based on your final destination makes all the difference.

Key Transport Options (Quick Overview)

  • Intercity buses (RTA E303, E306, E307, E307A, E308, E315): cheapest, reliable schedule, Nol card required in Dubai.
  • Taxi / Metered inter-emirate cab: fastest door-to-door; expect the AED 20 cross-emirate surcharge and possible Salik tolls.
  • Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem): app convenience and upfront fares; surge pricing may apply.
  • Ferry (RTA marine service): 35-minute scenic ride between Al Ghubaiba Marine Station and Aquarium Marine Station; fixed timetable.
  • Rental car or private transfer: maximum flexibility; consider parking and traffic during rush hours.
  • Airport shuttles: useful for travelers connecting to Sharjah International Airport.

(Above list is for orientation only; detailed coverage follows.)

How To Choose The Best Option — Decision Framework

Before we dive into each transport mode, here’s an action-oriented framework to pick the right one quickly: match your priorities (cost, time, comfort, luggage, schedule) to an ideal transport mode.

If your priority is lowest cost and you have time: choose the intercity bus. If your priority is speed or door-to-door service: take a taxi or ride-hailing car. If you want to avoid congestion and enjoy a calm ride: book the ferry when schedules align. If you need flexibility for exploring multiple stops: rent a car or book a private transfer. If you’re connecting to/from an airport: use scheduled airport shuttles or taxis depending on luggage and schedule.

This article will give you the details required to execute each choice smoothly.

The Intercity Bus: Best Budget Choice

Why the bus is usually the best budget option

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) operates multiple intercity routes to Sharjah. Fares are subsidized and paid with the Nol card (Dubai), keeping costs to around AED 12–15 for most Dubai-to-Sharjah trips. Buses are air-conditioned and have designated family/women sections — a practical choice for daily commuters and cost-conscious travelers.

Key routes and where they depart

Several RTA routes connect Dubai to Sharjah. The most commonly used routes for travelers are those terminating at Al Jubail Bus Station (Sharjah City Center area). Examples include:

  • E303 — Union Square / Deira to Al Jubail
  • E306 — Al Ghubaiba (Bur Dubai) to Al Jubail
  • E307 — Deira City Centre to Al Jubail
  • E307A — Abu Hail Metro Station to Al Jubail
  • E308 — Stadium Bus Station to Al Jubail (newer service)
  • E315 — Etisalat Metro Station to Muwailah Bus Station (serves northern Sharjah)

These routes run from early morning into late evening, with higher frequency at peak commute times.

How to board and pay

  1. Reach the metro station or bus terminal that serves the RTA intercity route you need. If you are using the Dubai Metro to access a bus, common transfer points are Stadium, Etisalat, Union Square / Rashidiya, and Al Ghubaiba.
  2. Use a Nol card to pay on Dubai RTA buses. Ensure sufficient balance before boarding — reload at metro stations, ticket machines, or convenience stores.
  3. Board at the designated intercity bus bay. Buses have route numbers displayed on the front; drivers will confirm destinations.
  4. Keep your Nol card ready to tap; fares are deducted on boarding.

Typical travel times and what affects them

The distance between central Dubai and central Sharjah is roughly 25–35 km depending on origin and destination. Off-peak buses take around 40–60 minutes; during morning or evening rush hours allow 60–90+ minutes. Roadworks, events, or heavy rain can extend travel times.

Pros and cons of the bus

The bus is cheap, frequent, and dependable for travelers with flexible time. The downside: variable journey times during rush hours and a final drop-off at a central bus station (you may need a short taxi or local bus to reach a specific attraction or your hotel).

Practical tip: how to plan a bus trip step-by-step

  1. Identify the nearest Dubai boarding point (Stadium, Union Square, Al Ghubaiba, Etisalat).
  2. Check schedule via the RTA S’hail app or Google Maps for live departures.
  3. Confirm you have a Nol card with at least AED 20 balance.
  4. Factor in 10–20 minutes to walk or taxi to your final Sharjah address from Al Jubail or Aquarium depending on where the bus lands.
  5. Bring small water, face mask if you prefer, and a portable charger — intercity buses are comfortable, but service frequency can vary late at night.

The Ferry: Scenic, Predictable, and Traffic-Free

Overview of the RTA ferry service

If you prefer to skip road congestion and enjoy the water, RTA’s ferry offers a direct maritime link between Al Ghubaiba Marine Station (Bur Dubai) and Aquarium Marine Station (Al Majaz, Sharjah). The ride is about 35 minutes each way and operates on a published schedule with weekday and weekend variations.

Timings, fares, and booking

Ferry schedules differ between weekdays and weekends. Typical fares are AED 15 for standard class and AED 25 for Gold Class cabins. Children under five often travel free. RTA recommends booking online through their marine portal; after purchase you receive a QR code for boarding — a time-saver that avoids queues.

How to get to the ferry terminals

  • Al Ghubaiba Marine Station (Dubai): walkable from Al Ghubaiba Metro (Green Line) and taxi-friendly.
  • Aquarium Marine Station (Sharjah): adjacent to Sharjah Aquarium and the Al Majaz waterfront; connectable via local Mowasalat buses.

Pros and cons

Ferry pros: scenic, reliable journey time, avoids Salik tolls and traffic jams. Cons: fixed timetable that may not match every schedule, limited departures relative to road options, and you’ll need ground transport at either end.

Practical tip: what to bring and how to board

Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure if you have luggage. Bring sunscreen and a light jacket — sea breezes can be cool. Book the ticket online to secure a seat and use the QR code at the gate.

Taxis and Metered Inter-Emirate Travel

What to expect from a taxi ride

Taxis in Dubai and Sharjah are metered and provide door-to-door convenience. Hail them on the street, call a dispatch number, or request via the Careem app (Hala taxis) if you prefer a metered cab booked digitally.

Cross-emirate surcharge and tolls

Expect an AED 20 inter-emirate crossing surcharge (applies for journeys crossing the Dubai-Sharjah border). Additionally, if the driver uses a Salik toll gate, each pass costs AED 4 and will be added to the fare. The meter’s flag-down rate and per-kilometer rate depend on the emirate; typical Dubai to Sharjah trips cost substantially more than public transport — plan for roughly AED 60–150 depending on traffic and pickup/drop-off locations.

When a taxi makes sense

Ideal for travelers with luggage, families who want door-to-door convenience, late-night arrivals, or when time is limited. Taxis are also useful if you have mobility needs or if you’re traveling to neighborhoods not well served by buses or the ferry.

How to ensure a fair ride

  • Confirm the meter is switched on at the start.
  • If a driver suggests a flat rate instead of the meter, politely insist on the meter (road rules require metered fares).
  • Use app-based taxis when you want an upfront estimate and digital payment for transparency.
  • Save the taxi number from the vehicle or app receipt in case you misplace an item.

Ride-Hailing Apps: Convenience and Price Transparency

Uber vs Careem: what to know

Both apps operate in Dubai and Sharjah. Careem provides both Hala (metered taxis dispatched via app) and private cars; Uber offers private cars and sometimes a premium fleet. Apps display an upfront estimate and an arrival time, making them user-friendly for non-Arabic speakers.

Price expectations and surge

Normal trip cost can be competitive with metered taxis and sometimes cheaper during light demand (AED 60–100 typical). During peak hours, demand-based surge pricing may significantly increase fares. Booking through an app also shows driver details and allows tracking — a safety and convenience advantage.

How to book and pickup etiquette

Set your pickup precisely (apps may auto-locate on busy streets). If you’re in a crowded area or a mall, use the app’s instructions to find the designated pickup zone. Communicate with the driver through the app for clarity.

Driving Yourself: Routes, Parking, and Practicalities

The main driving routes

There are three principal routes between Dubai and Sharjah:

  • E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) + local connectors — frequently used but can be slower due to congestion near city centers.
  • E611 (Emirates Road) — often faster for northern Sharjah destinations and industrial areas.
  • E311 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road) — modern highway that serves many commuters.

Choose the route based on your origin in Dubai and destination in Sharjah; navigation apps with live traffic data (Google Maps, Waze) are essential.

Parking and Sharjah’s PaySmart system

Sharjah uses an electronic parking payment system often referred to as PaySmart or Sayer for some parking and bus payments. For street parking, use the local parking payment app or SMS-based PaySmart where available. For long stays, find secure parking near Al Majaz, Al Jubail, or identified public lots.

Salik tolls and insurance

If you drive through Dubai, you may pass Salik toll gates. Rental cars generally deduct tolls from your card, sometimes with an admin fee. Confirm how the rental company handles Salik charges. Ensure your insurance covers inter-emirate travel and check the deductible for collisions or glass damage.

Driving during peak hours and weekends

Morning (7–9:30 AM) and evening (4–8 PM) commutes are busiest; plan to travel outside these windows if possible. Friday afternoons and holiday periods can also get congested. If your schedule is flexible, leaving earlier or later can reduce travel time significantly.

Rental car practicalities

Car hire companies often allow pickup in Dubai and drop-off in Sharjah, but check cross-emirate drop fees, insurance coverage, and fuel policies. Keep driver’s license, passport, and credit card accessible when renting. For cross-border or long-distance trips consider full insurance and a larger vehicle for comfort.

Airport Transfers: Dubai to Sharjah International Airport

Shuttle options and schedules

Airlines like Air Arabia operate scheduled shuttles between key Dubai locations (Ibn Battuta Mall, designated hotels) and Sharjah International Airport. These shuttles are economical and tailored to flight schedules. Prices vary; typically around AED 30 per person for shuttle services.

Taxi and ride-hailing alternatives

If traveling with luggage, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer offers the simplest door-to-door option. Taxi fares will include cross-emirate surcharge. Book early for early-morning flights to allow buffer time for traffic.

Time buffer recommendations

Allow at least 90 to 120 minutes for transfer between Dubai and Sharjah Airport if traveling during peak times. If you’re leaving from central Dubai and heading to Sharjah Airport, plan an earlier departure to avoid stress.

Accessibility, Women & Family-Friendly Considerations

Family and women sections on buses

RTA buses typically have designated women and family sections for comfort and cultural preferences. Children and family travelers often find these sections more comfortable during peak hours.

Accessibility features

Buses and ferries are generally wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated spaces. Taxis can accommodate wheelchairs if pre-arranged or with suitable vehicle requests via apps. If accessibility is critical, confirm in advance through the booking channel.

Traveling with children or seniors

Bring snacks, water, and small entertainment when traveling by bus or ferry. For seniors with mobility issues, a taxi or private transfer reduces walking distances and waiting times.

Safety, Legal, and Cultural Notes

  • Always carry identification (passport for visitors, Emirates ID for residents) when traveling between emirates.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing drivers generally speak basic English. For specific destinations, show the driver the address in Arabic if possible.
  • Respect dress and behavior norms at public transport hubs and in Sharjah’s cultural attractions (Sharjah has more conservative public policies than Dubai).
  • Avoid public drinking or eating on buses — follow onboard rules and keep noise considerate.
  • If traveling late at night, prefer app-based booking or official taxi stands for guaranteed service.

Step-by-Step Sample Itineraries (Actionable Plans)

Half-day cultural visit (best if arriving by ferry or bus to Al Majaz / Al Jubail)

  1. Board an early ferry at Al Ghubaiba (check RTA marine timings) or an intercity bus to Al Jubail.
  2. Arrive at Aquarium Marine Station (ferry) or Al Jubail Bus Station (bus) and take a short taxi to Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.
  3. Walk the Al Majaz Corniche, enjoy the waterfront and grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant.
  4. If you have extra time, visit the Blue Souk (Central Market) near the Gold Souq for traditional crafts and textiles.
  5. Return by taxi or catch a late-afternoon ferry if schedules align.

Day trip for families (car or taxi recommended)

  1. Drive via E11 or E311 early to avoid rush hour.
  2. Park near Al Qasba for children’s play areas and the Eye of the Emirates wheel.
  3. Lunch at Al Qasba restaurants, then visit Al Noor Mosque for exterior views and the nearby arts center.
  4. In the afternoon, visit the Sharjah Aquarium or Maritime Museum with children.
  5. Head back to Dubai after sunset to avoid the evening peak.

Budget commuter plan

  1. Use Dubai Metro to Stadium or Etisalat stations where E308 or E315 routes are available.
  2. Tap Nol card, board the intercity bus and disembark at Al Jubail or Al Muwailah.
  3. Use local Sharjah buses or a short taxi to reach work or school.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Mistake: Booking the wrong bus station. Fix: Always confirm the exact boarding point — Stadium, Al Ghubaiba, Union Square, etc. — in the S’hail app or Google Maps.
  • Mistake: Underestimating the cross-emirate surcharge and tolls. Fix: Budget AED 20 plus potential Salik tolls for taxi trips.
  • Mistake: Relying on metro to go all the way. Fix: There is no direct metro between the two cities — metro + bus or ferry are combined solutions.
  • Mistake: Missing ferry because of late arrival. Fix: Arrive 20–30 minutes early and buy tickets online to secure your QR boarding pass.
  • Mistake: Renting a car without checking drop-off fees. Fix: Confirm inter-emirate and one-way rental policies and insurance coverage.

Local Arrival: What To Do Once You Land in Sharjah

If you arrive at Al Jubail Bus Station

This station puts you close to City Centre Sharjah, the Gold Souq, and the commercial core. It’s ideal if you plan to shop, visit museums, or connect locally. Short local taxis or Mowasalat buses can get you to Al Qasba and the Corniche.

If you arrive at Aquarium Marine Station (via ferry)

You are minutes away from the Al Majaz Corniche, Sharjah Aquarium, the Splash Park, and several waterfront cafes. This is the best arrival point for families and sightseers.

If you arrive at Al Rolla or Al Muwailah

These stations are useful for accessing neighborhoods to the east and north of the city center, universities, and industrial zones. Local buses and taxis connect efficiently to nearby attractions.

Local transit within Sharjah

Mowasalat operates local bus lines, taxi services, and microbuses. The Sayer card is used on some Sharjah local buses (purchase on board or at terminals). For convenience, taxis or ride-hailing for short hops inside Sharjah are inexpensive compared to Dubai rates.

Money and Payment Methods

  • Dubai buses require a Nol card. Reload at metro stations, online kiosks, and convenience stores.
  • Sharjah buses often accept Sayer cards; have small cash or cards for local services where cards are unavailable.
  • RTA ferry supports online payments; bring card and phone for QR boarding.
  • Taxis accept cash and card; app-based services charge your credit/debit card in-app by default.

Sustainability and Responsible Travel

Choosing the bus or ferry reduces carbon footprint compared to private cars. If you drive, share rides or use a higher-occupancy vehicle. Respect Sharjah’s cultural heritage sites by following photography rules and dressing modestly in religious or cultural venues.

How This Fits Into Broader Regional Travel Planning

For travelers exploring the wider Gulf region, the Dubai–Sharjah corridor is a model of how efficient public transport and private services coexist. For planning longer Gulf trips — whether to Abu Dhabi or cross-border connections to neighboring countries — consult regional travel resources and itineraries to coordinate timing and logistics. For broader regional travel planning and curated itineraries that cover the UAE and neighboring states, see our pieces on regional Gulf travel insights. If your focus is on time in Dubai before moving to Sharjah, our material on detailed Dubai itineraries will help you align activities with your transport choices. For travelers considering adding Abu Dhabi to this route sequence, read about neighboring emirate travel options to coordinate transfers and timing.

For a broader perspective on UAE travel logistics and tips that tie into Sharjah visits, consult our UAE travel resources. If your itinerary spans the Gulf region — for instance a multi-city trip that touches Qatar or Kuwait — our cross-border travel tips and practical guides for Gulf cities contain useful checklists and background on permits, vehicle rules, and border formalities.

If you want a centralized set of trip-planning tools and inspiration that span the Gulf and beyond, visit our travel planning portal for planning templates, newsletter sign-ups, and curated itineraries.

Two Simple Checklists (One for Before You Leave, One for On Arrival)

  • Before you leave Dubai: confirm boarding point, check Nol card balance (or app booking), allow traffic buffer, carry ID, book ferry online if chosen, and ensure you have cash/card for local payments.
  • On arrival in Sharjah: collect local map or app, confirm onward transport (local taxi, Mowasalat bus), check attraction opening hours, and note return transport times if using the ferry.

Final Planning Framework — A 3-Step Blueprint to Execute Any Transfer Smoothly

  1. Select the transport mode that matches your priority (Time, Cost, Comfort).
  2. Book or prepare payment (Nol card, app booking, rental confirmation) in advance — this reduces hassle.
  3. Build a time buffer for traffic or boarding, and confirm local last-mile options at your Sharjah arrival point.

If you want planning tools, printable checklists, or a customizable itinerary template that uses this blueprint, you can discover more planning tools that we provide.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dubai to Sharjah is straightforward when you know the practical options: intercity buses for savings, taxis or ride-hailing for door-to-door speed, the ferry for a calm and scenic crossing, and rentals for full independence. With a small amount of preparation — booking ferries, topping up your Nol card, or checking traffic windows — you can reliably predict travel time and cost, arrive refreshed, and make the most of Sharjah’s cultural attractions.

Start planning your inter-emirate travel now by visiting our travel planning portal for templates, schedules, and personalized advice: start planning with our travel planning portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Is there a direct metro between Dubai and Sharjah?

No. There is no direct metro line connecting Dubai and Sharjah. The practical metro-based route is to travel to a Dubai station that connects with intercity RTA buses (for example Stadium, Etisalat, Union Square/Rashidiya, or Al Ghubaiba) and then transfer to a bus or taxi.

2) How much does a taxi cost from Dubai to Sharjah?

Taxi fares vary by origin, destination, time of day, and traffic. Expect roughly AED 60–150 for a typical trip, plus an AED 20 inter-emirate surcharge and any Salik tolls (AED 4 per toll). App-based ride estimates before booking give the best real-time indicator.

3) Can I take the ferry with luggage?

Yes, ferries accept luggage and are a great option for travelers who want to avoid traffic. Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure if you carry larger items. Book online to secure space and receive a QR boarding pass.

4) What’s the cheapest way to commute daily between Dubai and Sharjah?

The intercity RTA bus is the most economical daily option. Use a Nol card for Dubai-operated buses and plan for 45–90 minutes per trip depending on traffic and the boarding point.

If you’d like customized transfer plans, printable checklists, or curated day itineraries that combine Dubai and Sharjah experiences, visit our portal to begin organizing your trip: our travel planning portal.