Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus Timing 2026: Complete Guide to Route 117, Fares, Stops & Timetable
If you are planning an inter-emirate trip and searching for the most reliable and affordable transport option, understanding the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing is the first step toward a smooth, stress-free journey. Bus 117 is the lifeline connecting two of the UAE’s most economically significant cities, and thousands of residents, students, and tourists rely on it every single day.
Overview of Bus 117: The Inter-Emirate Connector
Public transport between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah has evolved into one of the UAE’s most convenient intercity connections. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a student, or a visitor traveling on a budget, Bus 117 remains one of the most efficient and affordable ways to journey across emirates.
Public transportation received government support that improved connections between cities, therefore making daily trips simpler for both residents and visitors. The route covers a road distance of 164 kilometers and has become central to inter-emirate mobility in the Northern Emirates corridor.
The Bus 117 service is managed collaboratively by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) in Abu Dhabi and the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA), connecting two major urban hubs without the stress of driving.
For anyone who regularly travels between these two cities, keeping a note of the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing ensures you never miss a departure and always plan your day with confidence.
Why Choose Bus 117 for Inter-Emirate Travel?
Before diving into the detailed timetable, it is worth understanding what makes this particular service stand out from other transport options available in the UAE.
Cost-Effective Travel
At AED 30 for a one-way ticket, Bus 117 is much cheaper than taxis or car rentals. For daily commuters making this trip five or six days a week, the savings over a month are substantial. Compared to ride-hailing services or private taxis, the bus offers unbeatable value for money on one of the longest inter-emirate routes.
Comfort and Amenities
The buses have full air conditioning, so you’ll stay cool no matter how hot it gets. And on the bus you will get Wi-Fi free of cost, so you can get in touch with your friends and family while travelling. All the seats are comfy, and there are special seats for women and the elderly.
There are also specific seats for pregnant women, giving them full comfort while traveling.
Reliability and Frequency
The 117 bus is a direct bus service between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Hundreds of people travel by the 117 bus to have a safe travel experience. It is a super-fast bus with fewer stops to reach Sharjah in 2 hours and 50 minutes or less.
Scenic Route Through Dubai
You’ll pass through Dubai along the route — enjoy glimpses of the city’s skyline, Sheikh Zayed Road, and major landmarks, even though the bus doesn’t stop there. This is a unique perk that many commuters quietly enjoy during their regular journeys.
Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus Timing: Complete Daily Timetable
Understanding the complete abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing is essential before you plan any trip, whether it’s a weekday commute or a weekend outing.
The SRTA 117 Bus Service starts in the early morning and it is available till night. The first 117 bus departs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station at 6:30 AM in the morning and it reaches Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station at 9:20 AM. The last 117 bus departs from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station at 11:15 PM at night and it reaches Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station at 2:05 AM the next day.
Departure Frequency Breakdown
The first bus is available at 6:30 AM and the second bus at 7:30 AM, so the frequency between the first and second bus is 1 hour. From 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM, the 117 bus is available at a frequency of 45 minutes. From 3:00 PM to 8:15 PM, the 117 bus is available at a frequency of 35 minutes. From 8:15 PM to 11:15 PM, the 117 bus is available at a frequency of 45 minutes.
This structured frequency means that at peak hours — particularly during the afternoon and early evening rush — buses arrive more frequently. During off-peak early morning hours, the wait between buses is longer, so planning ahead becomes even more important.
Here is a summarized reference timetable:
| Time Window | Frequency |
|---|---|
| 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM | Every 60 minutes |
| 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM | Every 45 minutes |
| 3:00 PM – 8:15 PM | Every 35 minutes |
| 8:15 PM – 11:15 PM | Every 45 minutes |
| Last Bus Departure | 11:15 PM |
| Last Bus Arrival (Sharjah) | 2:05 AM (next day) |
Note: Timings may slightly change during public holidays and peak travel seasons. Always confirm at the station before travel.
The above timetable represents the standard weekday and weekend schedule. Travelers planning their trip around the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing should always arrive at the terminal at least 15 to 20 minutes before their intended departure to secure a comfortable seat and avoid the stress of last-minute boarding.
Route Details: Stations and Stops
One of the most appreciated aspects of Bus 117 is its minimal stop structure. Unlike city buses that halt at dozens of points, this intercity service is designed for efficiency.
The Bus 117 route runs directly between Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah, with only a few key stops to minimize travel time. These include: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station — the main departure point near Hamdan Street; Shahama Village / Jazirat Umm an Nar — a quick intercity stop outside the capital; Ansar Mall, Sharjah — a convenient urban stop for residents and shoppers; and Al Jubail Bus Station (Sharjah Terminal) — the final destination and major transport hub.
The 117 bus has only four stops on its route. It does not waste your time and helps you reach Sharjah as early as possible.
Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Departure Point)
This is where every journey on the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing schedule begins. Located near Hamdan Street in central Abu Dhabi, the station is well-connected by local bus routes and taxis, making it straightforward to reach from most parts of the capital.
Shahama Village Stop
The Abu Dhabi to Sharjah bus passes through Shahama Village during the second stop. This stop serves residents in the suburban communities between the capital and the emirate border, making it a practical boarding point for those who live outside the city center.
Ansar Mall, Sharjah
This stop is a mid-point within Sharjah that allows passengers to alight if they need to access the Ittihad Road area or the commercial zones near the mall. It is a convenient option for shoppers and residents in that part of the emirate.
Al Jubail Bus Station (Final Destination)
The last and only final bus stop in Sharjah is Al Jubail Bus Station. This terminal acts as a comprehensive transit hub with connections to local Sharjah buses, taxis, and other transport options, allowing passengers to continue their journey within the emirate without difficulty.
Bus Fare: How Much Does It Cost?
The fare is one of the most frequently searched aspects of the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing, and understandably so. For budget-conscious travelers, every dirham counts.
The 117 bus fare is AED 30 per person for the one-way trip from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah. The bus fare from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi may be 2–3 AED more as set by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA). Passengers can pay the Abu Dhabi to Sharjah bus fare by cash or Sayer Card.
For travelers going the opposite direction — Sharjah to Abu Dhabi — the fare is AED 33, managed by SRTA.
Payment Methods
There are two methods to pay the fare: online and offline. For online payment, you can use the Sayer Card, which offers many discounts for travelers. Make sure you have enough balance on the card before getting on the bus. If you do not have a balance on your card, then cash is the only payment method. You cannot pay with a credit or debit/prepaid card.
Students and senior citizens enjoy UAE bus ticket discounts on some routes. The discount depends on card type and registration rules.
It is worth noting that the Hafilat card, which is Abu Dhabi’s standard smart transit card, is also accepted on this intercity route. Keeping your card topped up before departure avoids any delays at the boarding gate and ensures a seamless start to your journey.
Journey Duration: How Long Does It Take?
The 117 bus takes 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete its one-way trip from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah. The 117 bus may take 15–20 minutes more to reach Sharjah if there is more traffic on the way. On the other hand, the 117 bus may reach Sharjah up to 20 minutes earlier if there is less traffic.
It is advisable to start your journey before the peak hours to avoid the hassle. Morning departures between 6:30 AM and 8:00 AM tend to be the fastest, while evening services from around 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM can experience longer travel times due to traffic congestion on the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and surrounding highway networks. du number check code
Factors That Can Affect the Schedule
Even with a well-established timetable, several real-world factors can influence your journey when traveling on the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing route.
Traffic Conditions
The highway between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah passes through Dubai, and traffic on this corridor — particularly around the interchange zones — can vary significantly by time of day. Rush hours in the morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) and evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM) often result in longer journey times.
Road Works and Diversions
Due to construction (maintenance) work or other occurrences, roads may be closed or diverted, resulting in diversions and changing bus schedules. The UAE’s ongoing infrastructure development projects can occasionally impact highway flow.
Weather Conditions
From stifling summers to ice storms, weather can affect driving conditions and interfere with bus schedules. During sandstorm season or rare rainfall events, travel times may be extended as drivers reduce speed for safety.
Public Holidays
If you’re traveling on a public holiday, check the official timetable page before leaving so you don’t wait longer than expected. During Eid and National Day periods, passenger volumes increase significantly, which can affect both seat availability and travel times.
Regular information on traffic conditions and road closures is available on the RTA website or mobile app.
Practical Tips for Traveling on Bus 117
A smooth journey on the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing route requires a bit of preparation. Here are the most useful tips gathered from experienced regular commuters and travel guides.
Arrive Early at the Station
Go to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station a little early — 15 to 20 minutes — and look for the intercity bay for Sharjah. Confirm “117 to Al Jubail” on the front sign or with the driver before boarding. This is especially important during the evening rush when multiple buses depart in quick succession and platforms can become crowded.
Keep a Buffer for Peak Hours
Keep a small time buffer for traffic, especially around evening peak hours. Knowing the first/last service and the typical interval helps you plan without stress.
Carry Essentials for the Journey
Carry a bottle of water, snacks, and entertainment for the journey. Since the ride can last close to three hours during heavy traffic, having provisions ensures you remain comfortable throughout.
Track Your Bus in Real Time
Check out when your bus will arrive at the destination by tracking it in real-time. The RTA bus service also offers a lost and found facility to assist you in finding your items if you misplace something while riding the bus.
Use the Hafilat Card
Recharging your Hafilat card in advance is strongly recommended, particularly if you travel this route regularly. Keep your Hafilat Card recharged; insufficient balance may delay boarding.
Plan Your Onward Journey from Al Jubail
Once you arrive at Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah, numerous local buses and taxis are available to take you to your final destination within the emirate. Having the address of your destination ready — or a Sharjah local bus number — makes the transfer smooth and quick.
Return Journey: Sharjah to Abu Dhabi
The return trip on Bus 117 follows the same route in reverse, making it just as convenient for those commuting back to Abu Dhabi.
Your journey on Bus 117 will begin from Al Jubail, Sharjah, and will take approximately two hours and forty-five minutes to reach Abu Dhabi. There is a stop at Ittihad Road, Ansar Mall, Sharjah. The first bus is scheduled to leave at 06:30 AM, and the last bus leaves at 11:15 PM. The intervals between buses can be 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the time of the day.
Travelers can purchase tickets directly from Al Jubail Bus Terminal counters or use SRTA kiosks.
The Broader Significance of This Route
The Bus 117 service between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah is more than just a commuter bus. It represents a critical economic and social link between two of the UAE’s most important emirates.
Abu Dhabi is considered the financial center of the United Arab Emirates. Sharjah, the third most populous city in the UAE, is one of the top centers for legal, political, military and economic functions. People from the capital constantly need to travel between the two places. Therefore, it is necessary to have an economical mode of transportation between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
The Abu Dhabi–Sharjah intercity bus link is more than a transport service — it’s a symbol of inter-emirate integration. It has supported thousands of daily commuters working across emirates, improved economic collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, reduced traffic congestion on highways like E11 and E311, and encouraged tourism by offering budget-friendly travel for visitors.
For the thousands of expats and UAE nationals who live in one emirate and work in another, the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing schedule is a critical component of their daily routine — as essential as knowing their office hours or school timings.
Customer Support and Official Resources
In case you have a feedback or complaint about the 117 Abu Dhabi to Sharjah bus service, you can contact Sharjah RTA Customer Care.
For any queries or complaints, you can call 600-525-252. The Sharjah government operates the bus, so all customer complaints are given due consideration. You can also find the timetable on the official website.
Customer service is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you need to report a lost item, inquire about schedule changes, or seek assistance with your Hafilat or Sayer Card, the support team is available through multiple channels including phone, email, and the official mobile app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct bus from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?
Yes. Route 117 directly connects Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Terminal without any transfer required. It is the only dedicated intercity bus service between these two emirates.
What is the first and last bus on this route?
The first departure of the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing is at 6:30 AM and the last bus leaves at 11:15 PM from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. There is no bus service between 2:10 AM and 6:30 AM.
Does Bus 117 stop in Dubai?
This bus goes to Sharjah via Dubai. It first takes you through Dubai then it will go to Sharjah, but please keep in mind that there is no stop available in Dubai for this bus.
How much does the ticket cost?
The one-way fare from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah is AED 30. The reverse journey from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi costs AED 33, as it is managed by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA).
Can I pay by card on Bus 117?
Payment is accepted via the Hafilat card or the Sayer Card. Cash is also accepted. You cannot pay with a credit or debit/prepaid card.
How long does the journey take?
Typically 2 hours 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak hours, the journey may extend to around 3 hours.
Does Bus 117 run on weekends and public holidays?
The 117 bus is available on all 365 days of the year, including all festivals and public holidays. However, frequency may be slightly reduced on certain holidays, so it is always wise to check the official timetable before traveling.
Where exactly is Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah?
Al Jubail Bus Station is Sharjah’s primary intercity transport hub. It is Sharjah’s main intercity hub with taxis and local buses readily available for onward travel. It is located near the Al Jubail Fish Market and is well-known to taxi drivers and ride-hailing apps in the emirate.
What is the best time to travel to avoid delays?
Early morning trips (between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM, before the full rush builds) and midday trips (between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM) tend to have the most reliable journey times. Evening trips between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM are most susceptible to delays due to highway congestion.
Is there Wi-Fi on the bus?
Yes. Wi-Fi is available in the bus free of cost. This makes the roughly 2.5-hour journey considerably more productive and enjoyable for commuters who need to stay connected.
Summary
For anyone who needs to travel between the capital and the cultural hub of the Northern Emirates, the abu dhabi to sharjah bus timing on Route 117 offers the most economical, comfortable, and reliable option available. Running daily from 6:30 AM to 11:15 PM with departures as frequently as every 35 minutes during peak hours, the service is genuinely designed around the needs of everyday travelers.
The flat fare of AED 30, the air-conditioned coaches, the free Wi-Fi, and the limited stop structure make Bus 117 a genuinely competitive transport choice even when compared with taxis or private ride services. Whether you are a long-time resident making the daily commute or a first-time visitor exploring the UAE on a budget, this bus route delivers on its promise of affordable, efficient inter-emirate travel.
Always check the latest schedule via the SRTA official platform or the RTA app before heading to the station — and arrive a few minutes early to ensure you board your preferred departure without any last-minute rush.
Related Post:
