Traveling between cities in the UAE is easier than ever, whether you’re commuting for work or planning a weekend trip. With various transportation options like buses, taxis, and private transport services, you can choose what best fits your schedule and budget.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to travel within the UAE, covering routes and costs. We’ll also highlight the most reliable options to make your intercity journey as smooth as possible.
Intercity Travel Options in the UAE
The UAE is home to well-connected cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, and Al Ain. Some cities are just a short ride away, while others require a longer journey. Depending on your budget and preference, you can take public transport, book a taxi, or hire a private bus.
Intercity Bus Services
If you’re looking for an affordable way to travel between cities, buses are a go-to option. The UAE has a well-organized bus network operated by RTA in Dubai, ITC in Abu Dhabi, and Mowasalat in Sharjah.
However, public buses aren’t always the most convenient choice, especially for groups, business travelers, or those on a tight schedule. With fixed routes and longer travel times, they may not suit everyone. That said, they serve their purpose well, providing a reliable and budget-friendly way to get around.
Below is a quick comparison of popular intercity bus routes:
| Route | Operator | Departure Point | Destination | Fare (AED) | Payment Method | Travel Time |
| Dubai to Abu Dhabi | RTA (E100, E101, E102) | Al Ghubaiba, Ibn Battuta | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | 25 | Nol Card only | ~1.5 to 2 hours |
| Dubai to Sharjah | RTA (E303, E306, E307) | Union Square, Al Ghubaiba, Deira City Center | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah | 10 | Nol Card only | ~30 to 45 min |
| Dubai to Fujairah | RTA (E700) | Union Square Bus Station, Dubai | Fujairah Bus Station | 25 | Nol Card only | ~2 hours |
| Dubai to Ajman | RTA (E400) | Union Square Bus Station, Dubai | Ajman Bus Station | 12 | Nol Card only | ~1 hour |
| Dubai to Al Ain | RTA (E201) | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Dubai | Al Ain Bus Station | 25 | Nol Card only | ~2 hours |
| Sharjah to Abu Dhabi | SRTA (117) | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | 30 | Cash or Sayer Card | ~2.5 to 3 hours |
| Sharjah to Ajman | SRTA (112, 114) | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah | Ajman Bus Station | 5 | Cash or Sayer Card | ~30 minutes |
| Sharjah to Al Ain | SRTA (118) | Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah | Al Ain Bus Station | 33 | Cash or Sayer Card | ~2.5 to 3 hours |
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
If you’re looking for a faster way to travel between cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are readily available. However, while convenient, they can be expensive for longer distances, especially during peak hours.
For example:
- A taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi costs around AED 300-350.
- A taxi from Dubai to Sharjah costs between AED 60-100, depending on traffic.
Additionally, ride-hailing apps often have long wait times during rush hours, and fares can rise suddenly due to high demand. If you’re traveling with family or a group, booking multiple taxis or ride-hailing cars can get expensive and less practical.
Private Transport
If you’re traveling as a group, private transport is the most efficient and flexible way to get around the UAE. Whether it’s a corporate trip or a family outing, booking a private bus with Noor Islam guarantees a smooth journey across cities.
If you need Sharjah to Abu Dhabi transport, Sharjah to Jebel Ali transport, or a bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, our private transport services offer a reliable and convenient alternative. Unlike the Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus with fixed routes and stops, our private buses offer direct and faster transfers.
We also provide Sharjah transport and Fujairah transport for intercity travelers, ensuring a smooth journey between the emirates. With comfortable seating and flexible departure times, Noor Islam makes every trip convenient and stress-free.
Future Travel Options: Etihad Rail
The new Etihad Rail will change how people travel in the UAE. Once finished, it will link major cities with high-speed trains, making travel quicker and more comfortable. There are also plans to extend the rail network to Oman in the future to improve travel across the border.
Final Thoughts
Intercity travel in the UAE is simple once you know your options. Public buses are great for budget travelers, while private transport offers extra comfort and is ideal for those who need flexibility. Now that you know the best ways to travel, it’s time to plan your next adventure. Safe travels!
