Sharjah and Dubai are two major cities in the United Arab Emirates, located very close to each other along the Arabian Gulf coast. Many travelers, residents, and tourists often commute between these cities for work, shopping, or sightseeing. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Dubai to Sharjah using different transport modes.

You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, including travel times, costs, and tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular commuter, this guide covers all you need to know.

Getting from Dubai to Sharjah – Main Options

Train

Currently, there is no direct train service between Dubai and Sharjah. The UAE’s metro system operates within Dubai but does not extend to Sharjah. However, plans for future rail connectivity exist. For now, train travel is not a practical option for this route.

• Dubai Metro operates within Dubai city limits, with no stations in Sharjah, so you cannot use it to reach Sharjah directly.

• The nearest metro station to Sharjah is Al Qiyadah on the Green Line, but from there, you must use a bus or taxi to cross into Sharjah.

• Future Etihad Rail projects aim to connect emirates, but these are not operational for passenger travel yet.

• For now, rely on road transport options like buses, taxis, or private cars to reach Sharjah from Dubai.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel between Dubai and Sharjah. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) operates regular bus services connecting key points in both cities. Buses are frequent, economical, and suitable for daily commuters.

• The E303 and E306 bus routes run between Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai and Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah, covering about 20 km in 40–60 minutes depending on traffic.

• Bus fares range from AED 5 to AED 8, making it a cost-effective option for budget travelers and daily commuters.

• Buses run every 15–30 minutes during peak hours but may be less frequent late at night or on weekends.

• Traffic congestion on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Ittihad Road (E11) can cause delays during rush hours, especially mornings and evenings.

• Al Ghubaiba Bus Station has facilities like ticket counters, waiting areas, and nearby food stalls for convenience.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Dubai to Sharjah is the fastest and most flexible option if you have access to a car. The cities are connected by major highways, and the journey usually takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

• The main routes are via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) or Al Ittihad Road (E11), both well-maintained highways with clear signage.

• Distance is approximately 15 to 25 kilometers, depending on your start and end points within the cities.

• Toll gates are not present on these routes, but expect tolls if you use other highways like Al Maktoum Bridge or Al Garhoud Bridge during your travel.

• Parking in Sharjah city center can be limited; look for public parking lots or hotel parking if staying overnight.

• Traffic jams are common during peak hours, especially on Al Ittihad Road, so plan your trip outside rush hours for a smoother drive.

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient and comfortable way to travel between Dubai and Sharjah, especially if you prefer a direct and private ride. Both Dubai Taxi Corporation and Sharjah Taxi services operate in the region.

• Taxi fares from Dubai to Sharjah typically range from AED 70 to AED 120, depending on your pickup location and traffic conditions.

• You can book taxis via apps like Careem, Uber, or the official RTA taxi booking app for Dubai taxis, ensuring safe and reliable service.

• Taxis are available 24/7, but availability may reduce late at night or during public holidays.

• Cross-emirate travel by taxi is allowed, but confirm with the driver before starting your trip to avoid confusion over fares or route.

• During peak hours, taxi rides may take longer due to traffic congestion on main connecting roads.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Dubai to Sharjah for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. For example, choose bus for economy or taxi for convenience.

• If taking the bus, check the latest RTA bus timings online or via the RTA app to avoid long waits and confirm the nearest bus stop to your location.

• For taxi or car travel, plan your departure time to avoid peak traffic hours, typically 7–10 AM and 5–8 PM, to reduce travel time.

• Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor real-time traffic and select the best route between Dubai and Sharjah.

• If using a taxi app, book your ride a few minutes in advance and confirm your destination clearly to the driver to avoid misunderstandings.

• Carry a bottle of water and some snacks if you expect delays, especially during hot weather or traffic jams common on Al Ittihad Road.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a valid ID such as your Emirates ID or passport when traveling between emirates, as police checkpoints may request it.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during your journey to prevent stomach issues, especially if you are not used to local cuisine.

• Book bus tickets or check schedules in advance using the RTA Dubai app to avoid last-minute confusion or cancellations.

• Use local transport apps like Careem or Uber for easy taxi bookings and cashless payments, which are safer and more convenient.

• Pack light if you plan to use public transport, as buses and taxis have limited space for large luggage.

• During summer months, carry sunscreen and wear light clothing to stay comfortable while waiting at bus stops or walking between transport points.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel between Dubai and Sharjah is during cooler months from October to April when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be very hot, making waiting outdoors uncomfortable.

Traffic conditions vary by time of day and week. Weekdays see heavy traffic during morning and evening rush hours, while weekends are generally less crowded but may have more leisure travelers.

• Avoid traveling during major UAE public holidays like Eid or National Day when roads are crowded and public transport is busy.

• Summer months (June to September) bring extreme heat, so plan early morning or late evening trips to avoid the midday sun.

• Fog is rare but can occur in winter mornings, so allow extra travel time if visibility is low.

• Departing between 10 AM and 3 PM usually offers smoother traffic and shorter travel times on main routes.

Arrival at Sharjah & What to Expect

When you arrive in Sharjah, you will likely reach one of the main bus stations or taxi drop-off points near the city center. Sharjah has a well-connected local transport system including buses and taxis to help you reach your final destination.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Careem are widely available for last-mile travel. Many hotels and popular areas are within easy reach from bus stations, but if you have heavy luggage, a taxi is recommended.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dubai to Sharjah is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Buses offer an economical choice for daily commuters, while taxis and private cars provide comfort and flexibility. Although there is no train connection yet, road transport is efficient and well-supported.

Plan your trip by checking current bus schedules, booking taxis in advance, and avoiding peak traffic hours to ensure a smooth journey. With these tips, you can confidently travel between Dubai and Sharjah and enjoy all that both cities have to offer.