Navigating Sharjah’s public transport system can seem daunting, but it’s more straightforward than it looks. With a well-organized network of bus routes and stops connecting key areas in Sharjah and neighboring emirates, commuting is both affordable and efficient.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding Sharjah’s bus routes, timings, and stops will make your travel experience smooth and hassle-free.
This guide provides a comprehensive look at Sharjah’s public transport, highlighting major bus routes, stops, fare details, and essential travel tips.
Understanding Public Transport in Sharjah
Sharjah’s public transport system is designed to cater to the needs of daily commuters, tourists, and long-distance travelers. Managed by Mowasalat and regulated by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the system prioritizes affordability, accessibility, and safety.
Key Players in Public Transport
- Mowasalat: Responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of buses, route planning, and driver services.
- Sharjah RTA: Oversees the planning, monitoring, and maintenance of bus routes, public transport infrastructure, and the use of Sayer cards.
With the collaboration of these two key operators, Sharjah ensures that residents and tourists have access to a reliable and efficient public transport system.
Key Features of Sharjah Bus Services
Affordable Fares and Ticketing Options
Sharjah’s bus system offers an affordable transport option for locals and tourists alike. Instead of paying in cash, passengers are required to use a Sayer card — a rechargeable smart card used to pay for bus fares.
What is a Sayer Card?
A Sayer card is a prepaid contactless card that passengers use to pay bus fares in Sharjah. It can be purchased and recharged at major bus terminals, RTA stations, and select retail stores. This system eliminates the need for cash, making boarding faster and more efficient.
Where to Get a Sayer Card?
- Al Jubail Bus Terminal
- Rolla Bus Terminal
- Major metro stations and participating retail outlets
How Much Does It Cost?
- The cost of a Sayer card is around AED 25, which includes a balance for your initial rides.
- Recharge options are available at vending machines, bus terminals, and participating stores.
Bus Schedule and Service Hours
Buses operate throughout the week, but schedules may vary slightly on Fridays and public holidays.
- Operating Hours: Typically from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with some intercity buses running 24/7.
- Peak Hours: Busiest during the morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) and evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM) when commuters are traveling to and from work.
- Public Holidays: Schedules may be reduced, but major routes continue to operate.
Types of Buses and Routes
Sharjah’s bus network is divided into three categories:
- Local Buses: These buses operate within Sharjah, connecting neighborhoods, residential areas, and business hubs.
- Intercity Buses: These buses link Sharjah with other emirates, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah.
- Express Buses: Faster routes with fewer stops, typically connecting major transport hubs.
Major Sharjah Bus Routes and Stops
Key Intercity and Local Bus Routes
Here is a comprehensive list of Sharjah’s bus routes, including intercity routes to other emirates and local routes within Sharjah.
| Bus Route | Start Point | End Point |
| E303 | Union Square Bus Station 5 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 10 |
| E307 | Deira City Center Bus Station 2 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 12 |
| E306 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station 14 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 14 |
| E400 | Union Square Bus Station 8 | Ajman Al Musalla Bus Station 7 |
| E700 | Etisalat by e& Bus Station 06 | Fujairah Bus Station |
| 99 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 13 | Sharjah Airport Terminal |
| 113M | Al Rolla Terminal Station 4 | Centrepoint Metro Station Gate 8 |
| 88 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 4 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 4 (Circular Route) |
| E304 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 7 | Satwa Bus Station 6 |
| 309 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 4 | Interchange 4 2 |
| 308 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 8 | Parco Hypermarket |
| E307A | Abu Hail Metro Station 6 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 16 |
| 313 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 4 | Airport Terminal 2 Arrival |
| E315 | Etisalat by e& Bus Station 24 | Al Muwaileh Terminal |
| 3 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 7 | Safari Mall Terminal / Stop 1066 |
| 8 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 5 | Sahara Mall Terminal |
| 14 | Sharjah Airport Terminal | Al Sharq Terminal |
| X14 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 6 | Al Muwaileh Terminal |
| 117 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 1 | Abu Dhabi Bus Station |
| 9 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 13 | Al Nahda Terminal |
| 7 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 5 | Sahara Mall Terminal |
| 114 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 3 | Al Hamriyah Freezone Terminal |
| 15 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 6 | Sharjah Airport Terminal |
| 1 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 7 | Sahara Mall Terminal |
| X88 | Al Rolla Terminal Station 4 | Al Saja’a Terminal |
| 112 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 7 | Ajman Al Musalla Bus Station 1 |
| 116 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 4 | Al Zubara Municipality Labour Camp |
| 611 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 4 | Kalba Bus Station |
| 107 | Sahara Mall Terminal | Global Village 1 |
| 22 | Sharjah, Al Wahda Road , City Center 1 | Shj Saif Zone Gate No.3 |
| 118 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 2 | Al Ain Central Bus Station |
| 77 | Al Muwaileh Terminal | Al Saja’a Terminal |
| 115 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 3 | Ras Al Khaimah Bus Station |
| SH1 | Ajman Al Musalla Bus Station 1 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 16 |
| 616 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 4 | Kalba |
| 811 | Al Jubail Bus Terminal 2 | Al Ain Central Bus Station |
| 112A | Ajman Al Musalla Bus Station 1 | Al Rolla Park |
This table provides a quick reference for commuters to identify the route, starting point, and destination of each bus.
Major Bus Stations and Stops in Sharjah
- Al Jubail Bus Terminal: The central hub for all intercity buses, connecting to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman.
- Rolla Bus Terminal: A key terminal for local routes and transfers to intercity buses.
- Sharjah Airport Terminal: A critical stop for travelers heading to and from the airport.
- Sahara Mall Terminal: This terminal connects commuters with key shopping and residential areas.
How to Plan Your Journey Using Sharjah Bus Routes?
Planning your journey in Sharjah is simple when you use the right tools. Here are some essential tips:
- Use Route Planners: Apps like 2GIS and the RTA Sharjah app provide real-time bus schedules, route maps, and estimated travel times.
- Check Bus Schedules: Bus schedules may change on weekends or holidays, so double-check the timings before your trip.
- Track Your Bus: Use live tracking apps like 2GIS to avoid long waits at the bus stop.
Tips for a Smooth Bus Ride in Sharjah
- Top Up Your Sayer Card: Ensure your card is loaded with sufficient funds before boarding.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Travel outside peak hours to avoid overcrowding on buses.
- Be Aware of Service Changes: Bus schedules may change on holidays or special occasions.
Conclusion
Sharjah’s public transport system is a cost-effective and efficient way to navigate the city and travel to nearby emirates. With the right tools, like route planning apps and the Sayer card, commuters can make their journeys stress-free.
From local routes like Bus 99 to intercity routes like E303, E400, and E700, this guide provides everything you need to know for a smooth ride. Embrace public transport in Sharjah and experience a smarter, eco-friendly way to travel.
FAQs About Sharjah Bus Routes
How do I know which bus route to take in Sharjah?
You can use route planning apps like 2GIS or check route maps at bus terminals.
Where can I buy a Sayer card in Sharjah?
Sayer cards are available at bus stations, metro stations, and certain retail stores.
Are buses available from Sharjah to Dubai at night?
Yes, intercity buses like E303, E307, and E306 run late into the night, but check the schedule for exact timings.
What is the cost of intercity buses from Sharjah to other emirates?
The cost varies by distance, but the average fare ranges between AED 10 to AED 25 for routes like Sharjah to Dubai.
Can tourists use public buses in Sharjah?
Yes, tourists can easily use the bus system. They just need to get a Sayer card to pay for fares.
How can I track real-time bus schedules in Sharjah?
Real-time schedules are available via the 2GIS app or the RTA Sharjah website.
Can I pay cash for bus fares in Sharjah?
No, only Sayer cards are accepted on Sharjah buses.
