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A Guide to Hatta Bus Station: Location, Timings, and Dubai Bus Routes

Hatta bus station plays a vital role in connecting Dubai city with the Hatta region, making it easier for residents, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts to travel without a private car. Located in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta has grown into a popular leisure and heritage destination, and the bus network supporting it has expanded steadily under Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

In this guide, learn about:

What is the Hatta bus station?

A bus en route from Hatta bus station

The Hatta bus station is the primary public transport terminal serving the Hatta area, which falls under the Emirate of Dubai. Operated by the RTA, the station supports both intercity and local routes, linking Hatta with central Dubai and nearby neighbourhoods. It is especially important for visitors travelling to outdoor attractions, heritage sites, and residential communities in the area.

The station acts as the endpoint for express services from Dubai and as a starting point for local circular routes within Hatta. With increasing interest in mountain tourism and eco-activities, Hatta bus station has become a key access point for day trips and weekend travel.

Location and how to reach the Hatta bus station

Hatta bus station is located in the Hatta region of Dubai, UAE, and is accessible via the Dubai-Hatta Highway (E 44). It serves as the main terminal for all buses operating to and within Hatta.

The station sits along E 44 and is close to well-known landmarks such as Hatta Dam, Hatta Heritage Village, and Hatta Hill Park. The E77 road intersects nearby, improving road connectivity for vehicles approaching from Sharjah and neighbouring areas.

There are several ways to reach Hatta bus station from Dubai:

  • Hatta Express (Route H02) runs directly from Dubai Mall Bus Station to Hatta bus station.
  • Route E16 connects Al Sabkha Bus Station in Deira with Hatta, passing through multiple stops along the way.
  • Private cars and taxis can reach Hatta using E44, with clear signage from Dubai.

For travellers unfamiliar with Dubai’s bus system, understanding routes, zones, and schedules becomes easier when viewed within the broader Dubai public bus network, which explains how intercity and feeder routes work across the emirate. 

Operating hours and schedule of the Hatta bus station

Bus services serving Hatta bus station follow fixed schedules set by RTA, with variations depending on the route.

  • Intercity bus operations: Intercity buses across Dubai typically operate from around 4:00 a.m. until approximately 1:00 a.m. the following day. This applies to long-distance routes such as E16.
  • The Hatta Express (Route H02) runs daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Buses operate every 2 hours, and the last departure from both Dubai Mall and Hatta is at 7:00 p.m.
  • Route E16: It begins early, with the first bus departing Al Sabkha at approximately 5:30 a.m. Late-night services run until around 1:13 a.m. towards Hatta, while return trips from Hatta usually end around 12:11 a.m.

Timings can change on public holidays or during special events, so checking the RTA timetable before travelling is recommended.

Bus routes serving Hatta bus station

Hatta bus station is served by a mix of express, local, and intercity routes, offering flexibility for different travel needs.

Route H02: Hatta Express

  • Fastest connection: Direct route from Dubai Mall Bus Station to Hatta bus station with no intermediate stops
  • Operating hours: Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Service frequency: One bus every two hours
  • Fare: AED 25 one way
  • Comfort level: Air-conditioned deluxe coaches for long-distance travel
  • Journey duration: Around 90 minutes, subject to traffic

Route H04: Hatta hop on hop off (Tourist Circular)

  • Tourist-friendly loop: Circular route that starts and ends at Hatta bus station
  • Key stops: Hatta Wadi Hub, Hatta Hill Park, Hatta Dam, and Hatta Heritage Village
  • Operating hours: Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Service frequency: Every 30 minutes
  • Fare structure: AED 2 per stop
  • Best use case: Ideal for sightseeing and short-distance travel between attractions featured in the top attractions and activities in Hatta

Route E16: Al Sabkha to Hatta

  • Budget option: Connects Al Sabkha Bus Station in Deira with Hatta bus station
  • Coverage: Over 30 stops, including Deira, Old Souq, Al Madam, and Hatta Souq
  • Operating window: Early morning to late night, depending on direction
  • Fare: Approximately AED 10
  • Journey duration: Around 2 to 3.5 hours based on stops and traffic
  • Ideal for: Cost-conscious travellers and commuters comfortable with longer travel times

Fares, tickets, and payment options

View of another bus from the backside of a bus
  • NOL card: All routes serving Hatta bus station accept the NOL card, which is Dubai’s standard public transport payment method. Using a NOL card ensures smooth boarding and faster transfers.
  • Cash: Cash payments may be accepted on some intercity buses, but this is not guaranteed, so travellers are advised to carry a topped-up Nol card.
  • Fares: Typical fares include AED 25 for Hatta Express (H02), AED 2 per stop on the Hatta hop-on hop-off route (H04), and approximately AED 10 for the E16 route.

Comparing the bus routes

RouteBest forCostFrequency and first-last busTravel time
H02: Hatta ExpressFast, direct travel from Dubai MallAED 25Every 2 hours, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.About 90 minutes
H04: Hop on hop offTourists exploring Hatta landmarksAED 2 per stopEvery 30 minutes, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.Varies
E16: Sabkha to HattaBudget travel with multiple stopsAround AED 10Early morning to late night2 to 3.5 hours

Key takeaways

Hatta bus station is well connected by express, intercity, and local routes. H02 offers the fastest journey, while E16 is economical but slower. Route H04 makes sightseeing in Hatta easy. Using a Nol card and planning return timings are essential for a smooth trip, especially since express services end earlier in the evening.

FAQs

1. What is the fare for the Hatta Express (H02)?

The one-way fare is AED 25 between Dubai Mall Bus Station and Hatta bus station, payable by Nol card or cash.

2. How long does the journey on E16 take?

Depending on stops and traffic, travel time ranges from approximately 2 to 3.5 hours.

3. When is the last Hatta Express bus to Dubai?

The last H02 departs from Hatta at around 7:00 p.m.

4. Can I explore attractions in Hatta using public buses?

Yes, Route H04 circles key landmarks, including cultural and nature sites such as those near Hatta Hill Park outdoor spaces and Hatta Heritage Village landmarks.

5. Is E16 operational during early morning hours?

Yes, the first E16 bus from Al Sabkha departs as early as around 5:30 a.m., with late-night services running past midnight.

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