Traveling from Dubai to Sharjah: Your Ultimate Guide

Dubai and Sharjah are two vibrant emirates in the UAE, offering a mix of modern attractions and rich cultural experiences. Whether a tourist, resident, or business traveler, getting from Dubai to Sharjah is easy with multiple transport options.

This guide provides the latest information and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Why Travel from Dubai to Sharjah?

Sharjah, just 30-40 km from Dubai, is known as the cultural capital of the UAE. It’s home to museums, art galleries, and traditional souks, making it a must-visit for those exploring the region.

Dubai, with its skyscrapers and luxury attractions, complements Sharjah’s charm, creating a perfect travel combo. This route is popular and well-connected, whether for work, leisure, or shopping.

Key Reasons to Visit Sharjah:

• Explore cultural landmarks like the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.
• Shop at affordable markets like the Blue Souk.
• Enjoy family-friendly attractions like Al Qasba or Sharjah Aquarium.
• Attend events like the Sharjah International Book Fair.

Distance and Travel Time

The distance between Dubai and Sharjah is approximately 30-40 km, depending on the route. Travel time varies based on the mode of transport and traffic conditions, especially during peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM).

Transport Options from Dubai to Sharjah

Here are the latest transport options for traveling between Dubai and Sharjah, with costs and tips.

1. By Car or Taxi

Driving or taking a taxi is the fastest and most flexible option. The E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) and E311 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road) are the main highways connecting the two emirates.

• Cost:
• Taxi: AED 40-70 (depending on traffic and distance).
• Ride-hailing apps (Careem/Uber): AED 35-80.
• Car rental: AED 80-150 per day.
• Pros: Convenient, door-to-door service, ideal for groups or families.
• Cons: Traffic delays during peak hours; parking fees in Sharjah.
• Tip: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates. Avoid peak hours for a quicker trip.

2. By Public Bus

Public buses operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Sharjah Transport Corporation are budget-friendly and reliable.

• Routes:
• E303: Al Jubail Bus Station (Sharjah) to Union Square (Dubai).
• E307: Deira City Centre (Dubai) to Al Jubail (Sharjah).
• Cost: AED 10-12 (NOL card required).
• Schedule: Buses run every 10-20 minutes from 5 AM to midnight.
• Pros: Affordable, frequent services, air-conditioned.
• Cons: Longer travel time during traffic; limited stops.
• Tip: Purchase a NOL card (AED 25, including AED 19 credit) for seamless payments across Dubai and Sharjah buses.

3. By Metro and Bus

Dubai Metro doesn’t directly connect to Sharjah, but you can combine it with a bus for an affordable journey.

• Steps:
1. Take the Red Line Metro to Al Rashidiya or Union Station (AED 3-7.50).
2. Transfer to an intercity bus (E303 or E307) to Sharjah (AED 10).
• Total Cost: AED 13-17.50.
• Travel Time: 50-80 minutes.
• Pros: Cost-effective, eco-friendly, avoids road traffic.
• Cons: Requires transfers, not ideal for heavy luggage.
• Tip: Check the RTA Dubai app for metro and bus schedules to minimize waiting time.

4. By Private Shuttle or Shared Ride

Private shuttles or shared rides are gaining popularity for group travel or corporate trips.

• Cost: AED 20-50 per person (shared shuttle); AED 150-300 (private shuttle).
• Pros: Comfortable, pre-booked, good for groups.
• Cons: More expensive than public transport; limited availability.
• Tip: Book through platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide for deals.

Best Routes for Driving

If you’re driving, here are the top routes to consider:

Tip: Watch for Salik toll gates (AED 4 per crossing) on some Dubai routes. Use a Salik tag for automatic payments.

Traffic and Peak Hours

Traffic between Dubai and Sharjah can be heavy, especially during:

• Morning Peak: 7-9 AM (commuters heading to work).
• Evening Peak: 5-7 PM (return trips).
• Weekends: Friday evenings and Saturdays (leisure travel).

What Are the Top Attractions in Sharjah?

Once you arrive, explore these must-visit spots in Sharjah:

1. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Learn about Islamic history (Entry: AED 10).
2. Al Noor Island: A serene spot with a butterfly house (Entry: AED 40-80).
3. Blue Souk (Central Market): Shop for gold, textiles, and souvenirs.
4. Al Qasba: Enjoy dining, canal views, and the Eye of the Emirates wheel (Free entry).
5. Sharjah Aquarium: Perfect for families (Entry: AED 25-50).

Cost Comparison Table

Why Choose Public Transport?

Public transport is affordable and aligns with the UAE’s sustainability goals for 2025. The RTA and Sharjah Transport Corporation are expanding eco-friendly fleets, reducing carbon emissions. Plus, buses and metro stations offer free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned comfort.

Tyre Maintenance for a Safe Journey with PitStopArabia

Ensure a safe Dubai to Sharjah drive with top-quality tyres from PitStopArabia.com, the UAE’s leading online tyre retailer. Offering brands like Michelin and Bridgestone, PitStopArabia provides mobile fitting in Dubai and Sharjah, free installation, and expert advice for UAE roads.

How to Order with PitStopArabia:

• Visit PitStopArabia.com.
• Enter your car’s make, model, and tyre size.
• Choose from a variety of tyres and book a fitting appointment.
• Enjoy doorstep delivery and installation in Dubai or Sharjah.

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to travel from Dubai to Sharjah?

The cheapest option is the public bus (E303 or E307), costing AED 10-12 with a NOL card. Combining the Dubai Metro with a bus (AED 13-17.50) is also budget-friendly.

How can I avoid traffic when driving from Dubai to Sharjah?

Travel outside peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) and use the E311 route for less congestion. Apps like Google Maps or Waze provide real-time traffic updates.

Are there any direct metro connections between Dubai and Sharjah?

No, there’s no direct metro link. You can take the Dubai Metro Red Line to Al Rashidiya or Union Station and transfer to an intercity bus to Sharjah.

How do I ensure my tyres are safe for the Dubai to Sharjah drive?

Check tyre pressure (30-35 PSI), tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm), and look for signs of wear. Order quality tyres from PitStopArabia.com with mobile fitting in Dubai or Sharjah.

Can I book a taxi from Dubai to Sharjah in advance?

Yes, use ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber to book taxis in advance. Alternatively, contact private shuttle services for group travel.