How to Travel From Sharjah to Dubai

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Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Why This Matter: A Traveler-First Perspective
  3. The Geography and Timing You Need To Know
  4. Your Transportation Options: Full Breakdown
  5. Choosing the Right Option: Decision Rules for Typical Travelers
  6. Step-by-Step: How To Travel From Sharjah to Dubai by Each Mode
  7. Practical Ticketing and Card Systems You Must Know
  8. Safety, Etiquette and Cultural Tips
  9. Timing Tricks and Traffic Workarounds
  10. Cost Comparison and When to Choose What
  11. How to Plan Multi-Stop Itineraries (Sharjah Start, Dubai Stops)
  12. Common Mistakes and How To Avoid Them
  13. Mobility and Accessibility Considerations
  14. Local Tools and Apps to Make the Trip Smooth
  15. How Sharjah and Dubai Fit Into Wider Gulf Travel
  16. Sample Day Plans (Itineraries) Using Each Mode
  17. What I Recommend: A Practical Blueprint
  18. Final Checklist Before You Go
  19. Conclusion
  20. FAQ

Introduction

Sharjah and Dubai sit side-by-side on the Persian Gulf but feel like different worlds: Sharjah’s measured, cultural rhythm and Dubai’s high-energy skyline attract millions of travelers every year. If you need a reliable, efficient way to move between them—whether for a business meeting, an airport transfer, or to spend the day exploring—this article gives you everything you need to travel from Sharjah to Dubai with confidence.

Short answer: The simplest ways to travel from Sharjah to Dubai are by taxi or private car for speed and door-to-door convenience, or by intercity bus for the most budget-friendly option. Ferries and shared transport can be great alternatives depending on where you’re starting and ending. This guide breaks down routes, costs, timing, ticketing, and the practical decisions that will save you time and money.

This post explains every practical option—routes, step-by-step instructions, likely travel times by time of day, costs, tickets and card systems, and the common mistakes to avoid—so you can plan your trip exactly the way you want. You’ll also find recommendations tailored to typical traveler profiles (airport transfers, daily commuters, sightseers, and budget travelers), plus safety, etiquette and mobility tips to make the journey smooth. Use this blueprint to move between Sharjah and Dubai with clarity and calm.

Why This Matter: A Traveler-First Perspective

Travel between emirates is a routine part of life for residents and a frequent need for visitors. Knowing the choices and the trade-offs—time, cost, ease, and predictability—lets you treat the transit as a solved problem, not an unpredictable chore. As the KSA Travel Insider voice behind Saudi Travel & Leisure, I bring practical local knowledge and tested strategies so you can choose the best mode for your priorities and avoid the usual pitfalls.

The Geography and Timing You Need To Know

How Far Is Sharjah From Dubai?

By road the distance is roughly 25–30 kilometers depending on start and end points. Typical driving time ranges from 20–90 minutes. The variation is almost entirely due to traffic: peak hours, major events, or airport congestion can significantly extend journey times.

Typical journey times by time of day

  • Early morning (5:30–7:30): 25–40 minutes
  • Morning peak (7:30–9:30): 45–75 minutes
  • Midday (10:00–15:00): 25–40 minutes
  • Evening peak (17:00–20:00): 45–90 minutes
  • Late evening (20:00–00:00): 20–35 minutes

Traffic patterns are predictable: plan extra time during Friday afternoons and holiday periods. If you need absolute certainty (e.g., an international flight), choose a buffer of at least 45–90 minutes beyond the expected trip time.

Your Transportation Options: Full Breakdown

Below I examine every practical mode to travel from Sharjah to Dubai, with operational details and decision rules so you can select the right one for your situation.

1) Taxi and Ride-Hailing (Best for Speed & Door-to-Door Convenience)

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most straightforward option when you prioritize speed and comfort.

How it works

  • Book through an app (Careem, Uber) or hail a regulated Sharjah taxi.
  • Specify your precise drop-off in Dubai; drivers will choose the fastest route.
  • Payment: apps accept cards; cash is still possible in street taxis.

What to expect: fares and travel time

  • Typical fare: AED 50–120 depending on pick-up location, time of day, and route (airport transfers toward higher end).
  • Travel time: 25–60 minutes in normal traffic.

Practical tips

  • If traveling during peak periods, ask the driver to use the fastest express link (E11/Sheikh Zayed Road or E311/Al Khail) but be prepared for congestion.
  • For airport transfers, confirm whether tolls (Salik) are included in the fare on app-based services.
  • For late-night trips, prefer app-hailed rides for safety and fare transparency.

2) Private Car (Rentals & Self-Drive)

Ideal for travelers who want complete control or are making multiple stops.

How to plan a drive

  • Rent a car from major operators in Sharjah; ensure GPS or offline maps are ready.
  • Key routes: E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) and E311/Al Khail Road. E11 travels along the coast through Deira and Bur Dubai and connects directly with central Dubai; E311 may be faster at times and bypasses central congestion.
  • Parking in Dubai can be expensive—identify your parking options before you arrive.

Road rules and tolls

  • Tolls (Salik) are active in Dubai and charged per crossing. Some rental providers place a deposit for Salik charges—clarify with the agency.
  • Keep your speed within limits; mobile speed cameras are common.

Pros and cons

  • Pros: flexible itinerary, comfort, direct transfers.
  • Cons: parking costs, traffic unpredictability, Salik charges.

3) Intercity Buses (RTA and SRTA) — Best Value Option

For travellers on a budget or daily commuters, intercity buses are reliable and affordable.

The two main bus systems

  • Dubai RTA intercity buses: operate routes like E303 (Al Jubail → Union Square), E306 (Al Jubail → Al Ghubaiba), E307 (Al Jubail → Deira City Centre), E307A, and E315 (Muwaileh → Etisalat Metro).
  • Sharjah SRTA buses: routes include 308, 309, 313 and 113 connecting Rolla to parts of Dubai like Ibn Battuta and airport terminals.

How to use them: tickets and payment

  • RTA intercity fare: typically AED 12; requires a Nol card (Silver, Gold, or Personal Blue). The Nol card handles transfers across Dubai public transport.
  • SRTA fare: typically AED 17; SRTA ticketing systems differ and may not accept Nol cards—purchase at SRTA counters or authorized vendors.

Where to board and what to expect

  • Common boarding points in Sharjah: Al Jubail, Muwaileh, Sharjah Rolla, and Muwaileh Bus Station.
  • To reach central Dubai, RTA buses commonly terminate at Union Square, Al Ghubaiba, and Deira City Centre.
  • Travel time: 45–90 minutes depending on route and traffic.
  • Buses are air-conditioned and suitable for daily commutes; some routes have USB ports and comfortable seating.

Decision framework

Choose RTA buses if you are traveling to central Dubai and already have a Nol card. Choose SRTA if your starting point is Rolla or you need SRTA-specific routes.

4) Ferry (When It Fits Your Itinerary)

A practical alternative to road travel for passengers near the Al Khan waterfront and passengers heading to Bur Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba area.

Operational details

  • Ferry runs between Aquarium Marine Station (Al Khan, Sharjah) and Al Ghubaiba Marine Station (Dubai).
  • Frequency: multiple sailings daily (approximately early morning to evening), with slight variations on Fridays.
  • Travel time: about 35 minutes.
  • Ticket prices: competitive (e.g., AED 15–25 depending on class).

When to choose the ferry

Pick the ferry if you are near Al Khan and want to avoid road traffic or if you’re heading to Bur Dubai. It’s a scenic, predictable option during peak road congestion.

5) Shared Transport and Minibuses

Shared vans and privately operated minibuses operate in and around Sharjah and can be used for certain routes into Dubai. These are less formal and require knowledge of pickup points; they are often used by workers and regular commuters.

Considerations

  • They can be cheaper but are less regulated.
  • Expect variable schedules and less comfort compared to bus or taxi.
  • Safety standards vary—choose only reputable operators if available.

Choosing the Right Option: Decision Rules for Typical Travelers

If You’re Catching a Flight From Dubai Airport

Taxi or private car is the safest bet if you need guaranteed arrival times. For budget-conscious travelers, SRTA route 313 goes to Dubai Airport Terminal 2 and may be suitable but allow extra buffer for delays. When time is critical, plan a departure from Sharjah with at least 90 minutes of buffer beyond estimated travel time.

If You’re Visiting Downtown Dubai or Dubai Mall

Taxis are the fastest and most direct. Alternatively, ride the E306/E307 buses to Al Ghubaiba or Deira and connect by metro to reach Downtown; factor in transfer times and Nol card top-up.

If You’re a Daily Commuter

Identify whether RTA or SRTA routes better match your origin and destination. Buy the appropriate season pass or load credit on a Nol card for RTA routes; SRTA may have separate fare structures. Opt for fixed schedules during peak periods to reduce variability.

If You’re on a Budget or Traveling With Luggage

Buses (RTA or SRTA) remain the most economical. Ferries are also cost-effective and comfortable for travelers near the waterfront. For luggage-heavy travelers, taxis or a private car will reduce hassle.

Step-by-Step: How To Travel From Sharjah to Dubai by Each Mode

Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Step-by-Step

  1. Choose your app (Careem, Uber) or hail a regulated Sharjah taxi.
  2. Enter your exact Dubai destination, including building or mall name for precise routing.
  3. Confirm fare estimate and wait time.
  4. During the ride, check estimated arrival time and traffic; ask driver to avoid known congestion if time permits.
  5. Pay via app or in cash if using a street taxi; request a receipt for longer journeys.

Driving Yourself: Step-by-Step

  1. Rent a vehicle and confirm Salik toll policy with the agency.
  2. Set GPS to your Dubai address; choose E11 for central locations or E311 to bypass some central traffic.
  3. Monitor traffic apps for real-time congestion; avoid peak times when possible.
  4. Park in pre-booked or designated parking close to your destination to avoid circling.
  5. Keep local driving regulations in mind: mobile phone use is restricted while driving and speed limits are enforced.

Bus (RTA) Step-by-Step

  1. Obtain and load a Nol card with enough balance for a one-way trip (AED 12 as a general rule).
  2. Confirm the most convenient RTA route (e.g., E303, E306, E307, E315) based on your start and end points.
  3. Arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early—intercity buses have fixed schedules.
  4. Tap your Nol card upon boarding; keep it handy for transfers.
  5. Ride to the termination point in Dubai and use metro or local buses/taxis to reach final destination.

SRTA Bus Step-by-Step

  1. If starting from Rolla, check SRTA schedules and fares (SRTA often requires direct ticket purchase).
  2. Buy a ticket at SRTA counters or authorized vendors before boarding.
  3. Board at the designated stop and keep your ticket until validated.
  4. Plan transfers in Dubai; SRTA stops may not connect directly to the metro without a short taxi ride.

Ferry Step-by-Step

  1. Reach Aquarium Marine Station in Al Khan, Sharjah.
  2. Buy your ticket at the terminal or ticket machine (check class and price).
  3. Board according to the posted schedule; arrive at least 15 minutes early.
  4. Disembark at Al Ghubaiba Marine Station and continue via metro or taxi to central Dubai.

Practical Ticketing and Card Systems You Must Know

Nol Card (Dubai’s Contactless Travel Card)

  • Used for RTA buses, metro, trams and some water transport within Dubai.
  • Types: Silver, Gold, and Personal Blue—Silver is standard for visitors.
  • Top-up methods: online, metro stations, authorized outlets.

SRTA Ticketing

  • Operates independently; some routes require ticket purchase at counters or kiosks.
  • Nol cards are not always accepted—check before travel.

App-based Payments

  • Rideshare apps accept cards and in-app wallets.
  • Some ferry and bus services accept card payments at terminals.

Safety, Etiquette and Cultural Tips

Dress and Conduct

  • Respectful dress and public behavior is expected. Dubai and Sharjah both enforce decency norms in public places, but Sharjah is more conservative.
  • Avoid loud behavior or public displays that may attract unwanted attention.

Luggage and Security

  • Keep valuables close—public transport is generally safe, but common-sense precautions apply.
  • For overnight stays, store large luggage in hotel safes rather than leaving it in a parked car.

Communication

  • English is widely spoken. Save the names of your start and end points in both English and Arabic when booking local taxis or asking directions.

Timing Tricks and Traffic Workarounds

Know the Peak Windows

Avoid morning (7:30–9:30) and evening (17:00–20:00) rush hours. Friday afternoons and public holidays also see heavy flows between emirates.

Use Express Roads

E11 is scenic and often direct but can be slow in central stretches. E311/Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and E611 are valuable alternatives to bypass central congestion.

Leave Extra Time for Airport Connections

Allow at least 90 minutes for transit to Dubai International (DXB) when traveling from Sharjah; if you have less buffer, take a taxi.

Cost Comparison and When to Choose What

I’ll summarize the decision logic in a single, actionable checklist so you can pick rapidly in real situations.

  1. If time is critical and you want door-to-door service: Taxi or ride-hailing.
  2. For steady daily commutes with lower cost: RTA (with Nol card) or SRTA depending on start point.
  3. If you’re close to waterfront terminals and want to avoid traffic: Ferry.
  4. If you require flexible stops or are traveling with family: Private car rental.
  5. If your priority is budget and you are comfortable with transfers: RTA bus + metro.

(See the numbered checklist above as your quick reference when deciding.)

How to Plan Multi-Stop Itineraries (Sharjah Start, Dubai Stops)

When you plan multiple stops—say, drop-off at Dubai Airport and then to a meeting in Downtown—build a simple mental flow: choose a main transport anchor (taxi, car, or bus) and schedule minor transfers. For example, take a taxi to Al Ghubaiba and switch to the metro to reach Downtown; or take the ferry to Al Ghubaiba and hop on a taxi if your destination is not near a metro station.

Common Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

Mistake: Underestimating Traffic

Solution: Always add a 30–60 minute buffer to travel time during peak hours and 90 minutes if you must catch a flight.

Mistake: Using the Wrong Travel Card

Solution: Know whether your route is RTA or SRTA; carry a Nol card for RTA services and cash or SRTA ticket where required.

Mistake: Ignoring Tolls and Parking

Solution: Factor Salik tolls and parking rates into your budget when driving to Dubai.

Mistake: Overlooking Terminal Locations

Solution: Confirm which Dubai bus station or metro stop serves your destination; many intercity buses terminate at Union Square, Al Ghubaiba or Deira City Centre.

Mobility and Accessibility Considerations

Intercity buses, ferries and major taxi services provide accessible boarding options, but accessibility varies across stops and older terminals. If you need wheelchair access or mobility assistance, contact the service provider in advance and confirm the boarding procedures.

Local Tools and Apps to Make the Trip Smooth

  • RTA Dubai app (for metro, tram, bus schedules and Nol information)
  • S’hail app (multi-modal planning across UAE)
  • Careem / Uber (ride-hailing, fare estimates)
  • Local map apps with live traffic updates

For a curated collection of resources and practical travel planning, you can always start on our planning portal and use the search filters to match your trip type and dates: start your trip planning on our portal.

How Sharjah and Dubai Fit Into Wider Gulf Travel

If your itinerary extends beyond the UAE—say to Abu Dhabi or other GCC destinations—plan inter-emirate legs with a broader view of connections and transfers. You’ll find practical context for regional itineraries and intercity links on our page for broader Gulf travel context and resources: broader Gulf travel context. For planning deeper UAE travel, our resources for travel within the Emirates offer useful city-by-city advice: travel resources for the UAE.

If your trip includes other major UAE hubs such as Abu Dhabi, consider these city-to-city link suggestions to coordinate timing and transport: connections to Abu Dhabi. For travelers also considering itineraries that include nearby Gulf states, see our notes on planning travel to Qatar and Kuwait travel notes.

For visitors coming from Saudi Arabia or building broader itineraries across the Arabian Peninsula, our Saudi travel blueprints provide practical planning frameworks and regional context.

Sample Day Plans (Itineraries) Using Each Mode

Short Business Trip (Sharjah → Downtown Dubai → Return)

Leave Sharjah by taxi during off-peak (allow 25–35 minutes), meet in Downtown for 2–3 hours, return by taxi or metro depending on time. If you’re cost-conscious, take an E306 or E307 bus to Al Ghubaiba and transfer to the metro.

Airport Transfer (Sharjah → DXB)

Use a direct taxi or ride-hail and plan at least 90 minutes for transit if you’re departing internationally. For cheaper options, check SRTA 313 (if it suits your origin) but add buffer.

Day in Dubai on a Budget (Sharjah → Dubai Mall → Marina → Return)

Take a ferry to Al Ghubaiba, ride metro to Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa, then take the metro to Dubai Marina. Return in the evening by bus or taxi depending on fatigue and group size.

What I Recommend: A Practical Blueprint

For most travelers who want a balanced combination of cost-efficiency and reliability, this blueprint works consistently:

  • Buy a Nol card if you expect to use public transport in Dubai frequently.
  • Use RTA buses when traveling from Al Jubail/Muwaileh to central Dubai and SRTA for Rolla-origin routes.
  • Reserve taxis for airport transfers, tight schedules, or when traveling with heavy luggage.
  • Consider the ferry if you begin near Al Khan; it reduces dependence on congested roads.
  • Always check live traffic and departure apps before leaving.

You can find curated itineraries and route suggestions for specific Dubai neighborhoods in our collection of city transport articles and Dubai-focused travel pages: Dubai transport and city guides.

Final Checklist Before You Go

  1. Confirm the route and approximate travel time using a traffic or transit app.
  2. Carry or top up a Nol card if using RTA services.
  3. If you drive, confirm rental Salik policy and parking options.
  4. Allow buffer time for airport trips.
  5. Keep both a rideshare app and cash for unexpected changes.

Conclusion

Traveling from Sharjah to Dubai stops being a logistical puzzle once you understand the options and match them to your priorities. Taxis and private cars offer speed and convenience; RTA and SRTA buses deliver affordability for regular commuters; ferries provide a traffic-free, scenic alternative where available. Follow the blueprint here—choose the right route for your timeline, buy the correct ticket or card, and build sensible buffers into your schedule—and you’ll move between the emirates with ease.

Start planning your trip now on our portal so you have all the links, timetables and neighborhood guides in one place: start your planning on our portal.

FAQ

How long does it usually take to travel from Sharjah to Dubai by bus?

Travel time by bus typically ranges from 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the specific route and traffic conditions. RTA and SRTA services have different stop patterns which affect duration.

Can I use a Nol card on all buses between Sharjah and Dubai?

No. Nol cards are required for Dubai RTA services (e.g., E303, E306, E307 series) but are not always accepted on SRTA buses; SRTA often uses its own ticketing system.

Is there a ferry between Sharjah and Dubai and where does it depart?

Yes. A ferry links Aquarium Marine Station in Al Khan, Sharjah, to Al Ghubaiba Marine Station in Dubai. It takes around 35 minutes and is a good option for avoiding road congestion.

What is the cheapest way to get from Sharjah to Dubai?

The intercity bus networks (RTA or SRTA depending on your origin) are the most economical, with RTA fares typically around AED 12 and SRTA fares varying around AED 17.

Start your planning and access schedules, route maps, and neighborhood guides on our main travel planning portal: find broader resources and tools.