Visiting Dubai

Dubai

Buses from Dubai to Sharjah are a great way to get between the two emirates.

Buses are operated by the Government of Dubai Road and Transport Authority (RTA). There are three main bus lines that run from Dubai to Sharjah.

Buses from Dubai to Sharjah depart from central locations like Satwa, Bur Dubai, and Deira. Most buses arrive at the Al Jubail bus station near the food markets and central souq in Sharjah.

The travel time on this route is approximately 1 hour. At peak commuting times it can take up to 2 hours, and at less busy times it can take as little as 45 minutes.

Buses depart every 15 minutes at peak times from Saturday to Thursday, and less frequently on Fridays and public holidays.

Tickets for buses from Dubai to Sharjah cost 10 AED for a single, and 20 AED return.

Dubai

Dubai desert safaris are a popular activity for those that want to escape the hectic city and spend some time in the sand.

There are many companies that offer desert safaris in Dubai.

Some offer half or full day safaris, while others offer overnight desert excursions in Dubai.

Activites on Dubai safaris include 4×4 riding on the desert sand dunes, sea plane tours over the Dubai desert and city, camel rides, and Bedouin-style meals and accommodation.

Two of the best companies for Dubai desert safaris are Arabian Adventures and Seawings.

Dubai

Launched in 2009, the Dubai metro is one of the best ways to get around in Dubai.

The Dubai metro is the world’s longest automated metro system completed in just one building phase. The Dubai metro is 75km long and currently has 12 trains. When the metro is fully completed in 2011, there will be 44 trains on the Dubai metro.

Dubai Metro Lines

The Dubai metro has a system of lines that are distinguished by color. Currently the Red Line is open, with stops at Nakheel Harbour & Tower, Mall of the Emirates, Financial Centre, Al Jafiliya, Khalid Bin Al Waleed, Union Square, Al Rigga, Deira City Centre, Airport Terminal 3, and Rashidiya Terminal. The Green Line will be the next to open, followed by planned Blue, Purple, and Yellow lines.

Dubai Metro Tickets

Tickets for the Dubai metro come on rechargeable cards that can be purchased at vending machines in Dubai metro stations. A one way journey on the Dubai metro costs between Dhs1.80 to Dhs5.80, depending on your final destination on the metro. Different classes of Dubai metro tickets can be purchased, so if you want to ride on leather seats in the carpeted Gold Class cars, you can pay up for luxury.

Dubai Metro Hours

The Dubai metro is open from Saturday to Thursday 6am-11pm, and Friday 2pm-midnight.