The Mussafah Shabiya bus station plays a critical role in Abu Dhabi’s public transport network, especially for residents and workers in the Mussafah Industrial and Shabiya residential areas. Serving thousands of daily commuters, the station connects industrial zones, residential clusters, shopping centres, and intercity destinations through a well-structured bus network. The station remains a dependable transit point for both local and long-distance travel.
In this guide, know everything about:
- Mussafah Shabiya bus station and its location
- Operating hours and timings
- Key routes from the Mussafah Shabiya bus station
- Ticketing and payment
- Facilities and amenities
- Tips for planning your journey
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Mussafah Shabiya bus station and its location
The Mussafah Shabiya bus station is located within the Mussafah Industrial Area of Abu Dhabi, close to Shabiya residential blocks, particularly around sector M-37 and near Mazyad Mall.
Its placement allows it to cater equally to factory workers, office staff, and families living in the surrounding neighbourhoods. The area itself is well-established, with residential communities, retail centres, schools, and healthcare facilities forming part of daily life.
The station is operated by Abu Dhabi Mobility, previously known as the Integrated Transport Centre. It functions as a key interchange for both intra-city and intercity routes, making it one of the busiest bus terminals outside Abu Dhabi city centre.
Operating hours and timings of the Mussafah Shabiya bus station
The Mussafah Shabiya bus station runs on extended daily hours to accommodate shift workers and long-distance travellers.
- Local buses
Local and city buses generally operate from around 5:00 a.m. until approximately 11:30 p.m. These timings apply to most routes serving Abu Dhabi city, Khalifa City, Baniyas, and nearby residential sectors.
- Intercity and express routes, including E-routes
Services usually begin between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. and continue until around 12:30 a.m. On Fridays and public holidays, last departures may be slightly earlier, often closer to 11:00 p.m., depending on demand and route type. These timings align with broader public transport connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Key routes from the Mussafah Shabiya bus station
The station supports a wide mix of local and intercity services, ensuring strong coverage across Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Local and intra-Abu Dhabi routes
These routes primarily serve residents and workers commuting between Mussafah, suburban communities, and central Abu Dhabi.
| Route | Destination or stops | Typical frequency |
| 101 | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, Marina Mall, Corniche | Every 15 to 20 minutes |
| 110 | Khalifa City via Shakhbout City and the ADNOC areas | Every 20 to 30 minutes |
| 155 | Baniyas East industrial and residential zones | Every 25 to 35 minutes |
| 441 | Al Shahama suburban area | Every 30 to 40 minutes |
| 111 | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Mussafah Shabiya | Peak every 15 to 20 minutes, off-peak around 30 minutes |
These services form the backbone of daily commuting, complementing the wider Abu Dhabi bus network.
Intercity and long-distance services
For passengers travelling outside Abu Dhabi, the Mussafah Shabiya bus station offers direct and express connections.
| Route | Destination | First and last bus and frequency | Key stops |
| E102 | Ibn Battuta Metro Station, Dubai | First around 6:20 a.m., last around 11:20 to 11:40 p.m., every 60 minutes | ICAD, Abu Dhabi Airport terminals, Ghantoot, Jebel Ali |
| X90 | Al Ain Express | Approximately every 60 to 90 minutes | Limited stops |
| E201 | Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station | Multiple daily trips | Sharjah intercity network |
The E102 route is especially popular among commuters heading to Dubai, offering a direct link that avoids central-city transfers.
Ticketing and payment
- Hafilat card: Travel from the Mussafah Shabiya bus station requires the use of a Hafilat Card, Abu Dhabi’s official public transport smart card. It is mandatory for most city and intercity routes.
- Fares: Typical fares remain affordable. Travel within Mussafah generally costs around AED 2, while trips to Abu Dhabi city average AED 4 to AED 5. Longer journeys and intercity routes are priced based on distance and service type.
- Top-ups: Cards can be topped up at station kiosks, authorised retailers, or through official transport apps. Cash payments are not accepted on many intercity and express services.
Facilities and amenities in the Mussafah Shabiya bus station
The Mussafah Shabiya bus station is built to handle heavy daily footfall while keeping commuter comfort in focus.
- Climate-controlled waiting areas: Air-conditioned indoor halls and covered outdoor shelters help passengers stay comfortable year-round, especially during peak summer months.
- Real-time travel information: Digital display boards provide live updates on arrivals, departures, and route details, reducing uncertainty during busy hours.
- Essential commuter facilities: Prayer rooms, clean restrooms, and ample seating benches are available within the station for short and long waits.
- Nearby shopping and daily needs: Shops, cafés, pharmacies, and ATMs at Mazyad Mall are within a short walking distance. Several routes also connect passengers to Capital Mall shopping options and services commonly used for bus access to Dalma Mall.
- Accessibility and last-mile support: Ramps and accessible pathways support people with disabilities, while taxi and ride-hailing pick-up zones operate around the clock just outside the station.
Tips for planning your journey
- Check schedules early: Use the Darb app or Moovit for real-time updates and service changes.
- Arrive ahead of time: Reaching the station 5 to 10 minutes early helps during peak hours.
- Plan for holidays: Fridays and public holidays may have reduced frequency and earlier trips.
- Maintain card balance: Ensure your Hafilat Card has sufficient credit before boarding long-distance services.
Key takeaways
The Mussafah Shabiya bus station is a major public transport hub serving Abu Dhabi’s industrial and residential communities. With daily services from early morning until late night, it supports both city commuting and intercity travel. Key routes include multiple local services and the E102 connection to Dubai. Facilities are practical and well-maintained, while transport apps remain essential for accurate planning.
FAQs
Yes. The E102 intercity bus provides a direct route from the Mussafah Shabiya bus station to Ibn Battuta Metro Station in Dubai without requiring a transfer at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
Local trips within Mussafah generally cost around AED 2. Fares increase slightly for trips to Abu Dhabi city or outer suburbs.
On weekdays, route 111 runs every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours and about every 30 minutes off-peak. Weekend services start slightly later.
Yes. Some intercity and express routes operate until around 12:30 AM, although frequency may be reduced late at night.
Yes. A Hafilat Card is required for most Abu Dhabi bus services, including those operating from the Mussafah Shabiya bus station.
