Dubai’s public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency, convenience, and affordability. One of the essential bus routes in this network is the F12 bus route, which connects key areas like Max Metro Station, Wasl Park, Satwa, Al Hana Center, and Al Quoz.
This route provides a vital link for daily commuters, tourists, and residents, making it a preferred choice for affordable and seamless travel in Dubai.
For anyone relying on public transport, understanding the F12 bus timetable, route, stops, and schedule is crucial. This blog will provide you with all the essential information you need, including fare details, major stops, route highlights, and tips for an efficient journey.
Overview of the F12 Bus
The F12 bus route is one of the most popular feeder bus routes in Dubai, connecting residential, commercial, and key transit points. It starts at the Wasl Park Terminus and ends at Maxbus Stop Seaside, with several major stops in between. This route ensures smooth connectivity between key areas, making it easier for commuters to access metro stations and prominent landmarks in Dubai.
The F12 bus is part of the Dubai RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) network, which operates buses, trams, and metro lines to serve the city’s residents and visitors. The F12 bus plays a vital role in feeding passengers to the Max Metro Station, where they can continue their journey using Dubai’s extensive metro system.
F12 Bus Route Details
- Route Start: Wasl Park Terminus
- Route End: Maxbus Stop Seaside
- Total Stops: 19 major bus stops (12 from Wasl Park to Max, 7 from Max to Wasl Park)
- Travel Time: Approximately 30 to 45 minutes (depending on traffic and waiting times)
- Service Hours: 05:24 AM to 22:49 PM (with extended hours on Thursdays until 00:09)
- Frequency: Every 12 to 30 minutes, depending on peak and off-peak hours
- Operational Days: Monday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday (No service on Fridays)
Key Destinations Along the F12 Route
- Wasl Park: The starting point and the ending point of the route.
- Satwa: A key commercial and residential hub in Dubai.
- Al Hana Center: A major shopping and commercial stop.
- Max Metro Station: The end point of the route, offering easy connectivity to Dubai’s metro network.
This route caters to commuters traveling from residential areas like Satwa and Al Quoz to commercial hubs and metro stations.
F12 Bus Timetable and Schedule
The F12 bus timetable follows a consistent schedule throughout the week, with slight variations on Thursdays and Saturdays. The bus does not operate on Fridays, which is the weekly holiday in Dubai. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the schedule:
| Day | Operating Hours | Frequency (Minutes) |
| Monday | 05:24 – 22:49 | Every 12-30 minutes |
| Tuesday | 05:24 – 22:49 | Every 12-30 minutes |
| Wednesday | 05:24 – 22:49 | Every 12-30 minutes |
| Thursday | 05:23 – 00:09 | Every 12-30 minutes |
| Friday | Not Operational | Not Operational |
| Saturday | 05:22 – 22:35 | Every 11-30 minutes |
| Sunday | 05:24 – 22:49 | Every 12-30 minutes |
Important Notes:
- No Service on Fridays: The F12 bus does not operate on Fridays.
- Peak and Off-Peak Hours: Bus frequency varies from 11 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day.
- Late-Night Service on Thursdays: On Thursdays, the last bus runs until 00:09, allowing for late-night travel.
For live tracking of bus timings and updates, commuters can use the RTA Dubai app or other transit apps like TransitApp.
F12 Bus Route and Stops
The F12 bus serves multiple important stops, making it a preferred route for those traveling through Satwa, Al Quoz, and Hudheiba.
Route from Wasl Park to Max Metro Station
- Wasl Park Terminus (Starting point)
- Wasl, Park (Residential and recreational area)
- Iranian Hospital (Healthcare facility)
- Hudheiba, Road (Popular road in Satwa)
- Satwa (Commercial and residential hub)
- Satwa, Masjid (Community and religious hub)
- Satwa, Post Office (Important postal service stop)
- Hana Center (Shopping and commercial center)
- Hudheiba, Turnoff (Key intersection)
- Hoot, Eppco (Near petrol station)
- Department of Health (Government health office)
- Maxbus Stop Seaside (End point of the route)
Wasl Park to Max Metro Station Route Map:
Route from Max Metro Station to Wasl Park
- Maxbus Stop Seaside (Starting point)
- Satwa, Roundabout
- Satwa, Masjid
- Satwa, Clinic
- Hudheiba, Road
- Wasl, Park
- Wasl Park Terminus (End point)
Max Metro Station to Wasl Park Route Map:
How to Use the F12 Bus in Dubai?
If you’re new to Dubai’s public transportation system, here’s a simple guide to help you get started:
- Plan Your Journey: Use the RTA app or TransitApp to check live bus schedules.
- Get a Nol Card: Purchase a Nol card, which is essential for all RTA buses, metro, and tram services.
- Locate Your Nearest Stop: Use the app to locate the nearest F12 bus stop.
- Board the Bus: Enter through the front door and tap your Nol card.
- Track Your Journey: Use the RTA app to follow your route.
- Tap Off at Your Destination: Tap your Nol card as you exit the bus.
F12 Bus Route Fare and Ticket Information
To use the F12 bus, you’ll need a Nol card. The Nol card allows you to pay for all public transport services in Dubai, including buses, trams, and metro.
- Fare Zones: Your fare will depend on the distance and the zones you travel through.
- Top-Up Options: You can top up your Nol card at metro stations, bus stops, and online using the RTA app.
- Types of Nol Cards: There are multiple card types, such as Silver, Gold, and Personal cards, each offering different benefits.
Benefits of Using the F12 Bus Route
- Affordable Travel: Cheaper than taxis and ride-hailing services.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces the number of cars on the road, promoting sustainable transport.
- Timely and Consistent: Adheres to a fixed schedule, and you can track it live using the RTA app.
- Convenient: Offers easy connectivity to Max Metro Station and other RTA transport services.
Tips for a Smooth Journey on the F12 Bus
- Avoid Peak Hours: Avoid morning (7-9 am) and evening (5-7 pm) peak hours to reduce waiting time.
- Check Live Schedules: Use the RTA or TransitApp to track real-time bus arrivals.
- Keep Your Nol Card Ready: Ensure your Nol card is loaded with sufficient balance.
Attractions Along the F12 Bus Route
The F12 bus route connects several important areas of Dubai, making it an excellent option for exploring a variety of attractions. From lush parks and cultural sites to shopping hubs and dining areas, this route allows commuters and tourists to experience the vibrant energy of the city. Here are some of the key attractions along the F12 bus route from Wasl Park Terminus to Maxbus Stop Seaside.
1. Wasl Park (Starting Point)
- Category: Park / Family Entertainment
- Nearest Bus Stop: Wasl Park Terminus
- Highlights:
- Green Spaces: Beautiful lawns for picnics and relaxation.
- Children’s Play Area: Swings, slides, and play equipment for kids.
- Fitness Tracks: Walking and jogging tracks for fitness enthusiasts.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Ideal for family outings, leisure, and relaxation.
Why Visit?
Wasl Park is a lush green public space where families and fitness lovers can enjoy outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a quiet escape from the city, this park is a peaceful spot for relaxation and exercise.
2. Iranian Hospital
- Category: Healthcare / Medical Facility
- Nearest Bus Stop: Iranian Hospital Stop
- Highlights:
- Medical Services: Offers comprehensive healthcare and emergency medical services.
- Nearby Cafes & Restaurants: You’ll find cafes and eateries where you can grab a quick snack.
Why Visit?
While the Iranian Hospital is primarily a healthcare facility, it serves as a key landmark along the F12 bus route. Visitors seeking medical attention can easily access this hospital from anywhere on the route.
3. Satwa (Shopping and Dining Hub)
- Category: Commercial / Retail / Dining
- Nearest Bus Stops: Satwa, Satwa Masjid, Satwa Post Office
- Highlights:
- Al Satwa Market: Famous for affordable textiles, fabrics, and custom tailoring.
- Budget Shopping: Electronic gadgets, accessories, and streetwear available at lower prices.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Satwa is a foodie’s paradise, offering Filipino, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Bustling Community: Experience the hustle and bustle of a traditional Dubai neighborhood.
Why Visit?
Satwa is one of the most dynamic areas of Dubai. It’s a shopper’s paradise for those looking for textiles, electronics, and customized tailoring. If you’re a foodie, Satwa offers affordable dining options featuring multicultural cuisine.
4. Satwa Masjid
- Category: Religious Site / Cultural Site
- Nearest Bus Stop: Satwa, Masjid
- Highlights:
- Religious Services: A mosque where Muslims can perform daily prayers.
- Cultural Significance: Offers visitors a glimpse into the Islamic way of life and community gatherings.
Why Visit?
Satwa Masjid is a place of religious importance for Dubai’s Muslim community. Visitors interested in Dubai’s Islamic culture and community life can observe prayers and the sense of unity fostered at this mosque.
5. Al Quoz (Nearby Attraction)
- Category: Art District / Cultural Hub
- Nearest Bus Stop: Via Hana Center Stop
- Highlights:
- Alserkal Avenue: Dubai’s premier art district featuring contemporary art galleries, cafes, and exhibition spaces.
- Art Galleries: See modern art exhibitions and installations.
- Cultural Events: Join events, talks, and art tours.
Why Visit?
If you’re an art lover, you must visit Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz. It’s known for its cutting-edge art galleries, creative workshops, and unique warehouse cafes. It’s one of Dubai’s trendiest and most unique cultural hubs.
Other Options to Travel from Wasl Park Terminus to Maxbus Stop Seaside
While the F12 bus is a convenient option for traveling between Wasl Park Terminus and Maxbus Stop Seaside, there are other transportation methods you can consider. Here are some alternative travel options that offer flexibility, speed, and comfort based on your budget and schedule.
1. Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel across the city. Although there is no direct metro line from Wasl Park to Maxbus Stop Seaside, you can use nearby metro stations to create a connected route.
How to Travel via Metro:
- Nearest Metro Station from Wasl Park:
- Al Jafiliya Metro Station (Red Line) — Approx. 8-10 minute taxi or bus ride from Wasl Park.
- Nearest Metro Station to Maxbus Stop Seaside:
- Max Metro Station (Red Line) — Directly accessible via the Dubai Metro.
- Route:
- Board the Red Line from Al Jafiliya Metro Station.
- Travel toward UAE Exchange direction.
- Get off at Max Metro Station.
Travel Time & Cost:
- Travel Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including connections.
- Cost: AED 3-7 (depends on the zone-based fare system).
Why Use the Metro?:
- Faster than buses as it avoids traffic.
- Air-conditioned and comfortable.
- Real-time tracking via the RTA Dubai app.
2. RTA Public Buses (Alternative Bus Routes)
If the F12 bus is unavailable, you can still travel using other RTA bus routes. Here’s how you can make the journey:
Alternative Bus Routes:
- Bus from Wasl Park to Al Jafiliya Metro Station:
- Use Bus 28 or Bus 32C to reach Al Jafiliya Metro Station.
- Bus from Al Jafiliya to Maxbus Stop Seaside:
- Take Bus 98E or Bus 21 from Al Jafiliya Metro Station to Max Metro Station/Maxbus Stop Seaside.
Travel Time & Cost:
- Travel Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (depending on bus availability and waiting times).
- Cost: AED 3-5 using the Nol card.
Why Use Alternative Buses?:
- Cheaper compared to taxis and ride-hailing services.
- Direct connection to metro stations and bus hubs.
- Good option for budget travelers.
3. Taxi / Ride-Hailing Services (Careem, Uber)
For those looking for a quicker, door-to-door option, taxis or ride-hailing services like Careem or Uber are available. This method provides a fast, convenient, and flexible travel experience.
How to Book:
- Use ride-hailing apps like Careem, Uber, or RTA Taxi App.
- Book a ride directly from Wasl Park Terminus to Maxbus Stop Seaside.
Travel Time & Cost:
- Travel Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (faster than buses).
- Cost: AED 20-35 (varies by distance, time of day, and traffic conditions).
Why Use Taxis or Ride-Hailing Apps?:
- Fast and Convenient: No waiting time at stops or stations.
- Direct Route: Door-to-door service with no stops.
- 24/7 Availability: Available any time of the day or night.
Conclusion
The F12 bus route is a convenient option for commuters in Dubai, connecting major hubs like Max Metro Station, Satwa, and Wasl Park.
With a well-structured schedule, affordable fares, and reliable service, this route is ideal for both residents and tourists. Make sure to use the RTA app to check real-time bus timings and avoid delays.
FAQs About F12 Bus Route
What time does the F12 bus operate on weekends?
The F12 bus operates on Saturdays and Sundays, but there is no service on Fridays.
Can I track the F12 bus in real-time?
Yes, you can track the F12 bus using the RTA app or TransitApp.
How much is the fare for the F12 bus?
The fare is determined by the distance and zones you travel through.
Does the F12 bus stop at Al Jafiliya Metro Station?
No, but it stops at Max Metro Station, which is also a key metro connection point.
Can tourists use Nol cards on the F12 bus?
Yes, tourists can purchase and use Nol cards on all RTA public transport services.
How frequently does the F12 bus run?
The bus frequency is between 11-30 minutes, depending on the time of day.
What should I do if I lose my Nol card?
You should report the loss to RTA and apply for a replacement card.
