Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, situated in the heart of Bur Dubai, provides seamless access to both local and intercity bus routes across the emirate, connecting commuters, tourists, and residents to key areas.
Serving daily commuters, tourists, and local shoppers, Al Ghubaiba Bus Station links key neighbourhoods, business districts, and cultural sites while connecting efficiently to metro services for smooth travel across the city. Its proximity to Al Ghubaiba Metro Station (Green Line) and major roads like Mankhool Road and Khalid Bin Zayed Bin Al Waheed Road makes it a practical interchange for both short city trips and longer journeys to neighbouring emirates.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Location & Accessibility
- Operating Hours & Timings
- Local Bus Routes from Al Ghubaiba
- Intercity Bus Routes Al Ghubaiba
- Facilities and Passenger Information
- Tips for Travellers
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Location & Accessibility
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station is situated in the historic Al Shindagha neighbourhood of Bur Dubai, directly opposite Dubai Creek and near Al Ghubaiba Street. Its central location makes it easily reachable for residents, tourists, and daily commuters.
Nearby Landmarks
The station is close to several notable attractions, including:
- Dubai Museum, offering insights into the city’s history.
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, showcasing traditional architecture and cultural heritage.
- Gold and Spice Souks, popular destinations for shopping and local experiences.
Metro Access
Al Ghubaiba Metro Station on the Green Line is just a short walk from the bus terminal, providing convenient connections between bus and metro services.
By Road, Car, or Taxi
The station is easily accessible via Mankhool Road, Khalid Bin Zayed Bin Al Waheed Road, and Eminent Road. Ride-hailing services and taxis are widely available, offering flexible options for commuters and visitors alike.
Operating Hours & Timings
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station opens early in the morning, with station access starting around 5:00 AM, catering to early commuters and tourists.
Most local bus routes operate until midnight, while intercity services generally conclude by 11:00 PM, providing reliable options for both city and regional travel.
Bus frequency varies depending on the route and time of day. On average, buses arrive every 20-30 minutes, with more frequent departures during peak hours or on popular routes to accommodate higher passenger demand.
Local Bus Routes from Al Ghubaiba
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station serves several major city bus routes, connecting Bur Dubai to key areas across the city. Below are some of the main routes:
| Route No. | Destination / Key Stops | First – Last Bus | Frequency | Approx. Travel Time |
| 8 | Internet City | ~5:00 AM – Midnight | 15-20 min | 35-40 min |
| 9 | Dubai Healthcare City | ~5:30 AM – 11:30 PM | 20 min | 30-35 min |
| 12 | Al Quoz Bus Station | ~5:15 AM – 11:45 PM | 20-25 min | 30-40 min |
| 21 | Quoz Industrial Area | ~5:29 AM – ~11:30 PM (weekday) | 20-30 min (peak) | ~70-75 min |
| 29 | The Dubai Mall | 6:40 AM – 11:30 PM | 15-20 min | 25-35 min |
| 91 | Jebel Ali | 5:20 AM – ~11:20 PM | 21-30 min | ~2 hours |
Note: Timings may vary slightly depending on traffic, weekends, and public holidays.
Intercity Bus Routes from Al Ghubaiba
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station also operates several intercity routes connecting Dubai with neighbouring emirates. Key services include:
| Route | Destination | Duration | Frequency |
| E100 | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | 2h – 2h 15 min | Every 30 min |
| E306 | Sharjah (Al Jubail) | ~1h – 1h 15 min | Every 20-30 min |
| E307A | Sharjah (Al Taawun) | ~45-50 min | 20-30 min |
| E400 | Ajman Bus Station | ~45 min | Every 30 min |
Facilities and Passenger Information
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for all passengers. The station features waiting areas with ample seating, ticket counters, restrooms, ATMs, and food and beverage options for commuters and travellers.
Accessibility is a priority, with dedicated wheelchair paths and guidance systems for visually impaired passengers, making the station inclusive for all.
Real-time travel information is available through digital boards and information screens, helping passengers plan their journeys efficiently and stay updated on bus arrivals and departures.
All fares are paid using the Nol Card, which can be topped up at the station or through mobile apps, providing a convenient and cashless payment option for both local and intercity travel.
Tips for Travellers
- Arrive 10-15 minutes before your bus departure to ensure timely boarding.
- Use the S’hail or RTA apps for real-time schedule updates.
- Carry a properly loaded Nol Card, as an insufficient balance may prevent boarding.
- Check for schedule changes during special events or holidays, such as Ramadan or National Day.
- When travelling intercity, keep a valid ID or passport handy for any inspections.
Key Takeaways
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station is centrally located in Bur Dubai, within easy reach of major historic and tourist areas. The station operates from around 5:00 AM until midnight for most local routes, while intercity services may start earlier to accommodate longer journeys.
A comprehensive network of local buses connects to destinations such as Internet City, Al Quoz, and Jebel Ali, while intercity routes reach Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and other neighbouring emirates. Travel requires a Nol Card, and using real-time apps and checking schedules in advance helps ensure a hassle-free journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Most local routes operate from ~5:00 AM to midnight. Intercity services may vary depending on demand, but 24/7 operation is rare.
The fare for the E306 route to Sharjah (Al Jubail) is approximately AED 15.
The first intercity bus (E100) departs at around 5:00 AM.
Yes. The station offers wheelchair-friendly pathways, accessible restrooms, and support for visually impaired passengers.
Yes. All RTA buses, metro, and feeder services accept the Nol Card. Ensure your card has sufficient balance for your journey.
