X28 Bus Timings in Dubai: Complete Route, Schedule, Fares, and More

The X28 bus in Dubai is one of the city’s longest-running intercity-style bus routes, connecting residential neighbourhoods in the east to key commercial and leisure areas in western Dubai. Used daily by residents, workers, and visitors, this route offers a cost-effective way to move across the city while linking Metro stations, shopping hubs, and cultural landmarks.

In this guide, learn about:

• Understanding the X28 service
• Route and key stops of the X28 bus in Dubai
• Schedule and operating hours of the X28 bus in Dubai
• Fares and payment on the X28 bus in Dubai
• Passenger tips and accessibility
• Key takeaways
• FAQs

Understanding the X28 service

The X28 bus in Dubai is operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) as part of the city’s public bus network. It serves as a vital east-to-west corridor, helping commuters travel between residential zones and central business districts without relying on private transport.

The route connects Lulu Village in the Muhaisnah and Al Qusais area to Agora Mall in Jumeirah, passing through several mixed-use neighbourhoods, industrial areas, Metro stations, and tourist-facing locations. The bus typically covers a distance of around 30 to 31 kilometres.

Depending on the direction and minor route variations, the X28 includes approximately 29 to 40 stops. Under normal traffic conditions, the full journey takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes one way. For those new to navigating RTA services, understanding how buses integrate with the wider transit system is helpful, especially when using Dubai’s public bus network as part of daily commuting.

Route and key stops of the X28 bus in Dubai

The X28 route passes through residential districts, education hubs, industrial zones, Metro interchanges, and shopping destinations. This makes it suitable for both work commutes and leisure travel.

Below is a summary of major stops along the route. Exact stop names may vary slightly depending on direction.

Several stops lie close to popular retail areas, including Mercato and Deira City Centre, which align well with planning journeys around major shopping destinations along the X28 corridor. The route also connects with key interchanges such as Deira City Centre Metro Station, useful for commuters transferring between bus and Metro services.

Schedule and operating hours of the X28 bus in Dubai

The X28 bus operates daily, with slightly adjusted schedules on weekends. Services begin early in the morning and continue late into the evening to accommodate work and leisure travel.

Weekday frequency remains consistent throughout most of the day, while weekends may see slightly extended late-evening services. Last bus timings can vary depending on whether the journey begins from Lulu Village or Agora Mall. Understanding these variations is easier when travellers are familiar with how Dubai’s public transport system operates as a connected network.

Fares and payment on the X28 bus in Dubai

Bus fares on the X28 route follow Dubai’s zone-based pricing structure and are calculated based on the number of NOL zones crossed during the journey.

A full-length trip with the X28 bus in Dubai between Lulu Village and Agora Mall typically costs around AED 5, depending on entry and exit points. Payment is accepted only through NOL cards, including silver, gold, red, and blue variants. Cash payments are not accepted onboard.

Passenger tips and accessibility

• Arrive early during peak hours: Arrive a few minutes early at the stop, especially during peak hours between 7:00-9:00 a.m. and 5:00-8:00 p.m., as traffic conditions can affect arrival times even when frequency is steady.
• Track buses in real time: Use real-time tracking through the RTA app or third-party transit tools to stay updated on delays or service changes.
• Check NOL card balance before boarding: Ensure your NOL card has a sufficient balance before boarding and tap correctly to avoid fare issues.
• Accessibility-friendly bus design: X28 buses are fully air-conditioned and designed for accessibility, with priority seating and space for passengers with mobility needs.
• Plan buffer time during congestion: During heavy traffic, travel time may exceed the typical 1 hour and 25 minutes, so planning buffer time is recommended.
• Expect crowding near major hubs: Stops near major hubs such as Ibn Battuta and Al Quoz are particularly busy during work hours, reflecting commuter flow around major bus stations and industrial districts served by key terminals in Al Quoz.

Key takeaways

The X28 bus in Dubai provides a reliable and affordable connection between eastern residential areas and western commercial districts. Operating daily from early morning until late evening, it covers roughly 30 to 31 kilometres with 30 to 40 stops depending on direction. With fares starting at AED 3 and NOL card-only payments, it remains a practical choice for regular commuters and visitors alike.

FAQs

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