Mussafah Bus Station: Complete Guide to Location, Routes, Timings, Fares & Facilities (2026)
Whether you are a daily commuter, an industrial worker, or a first-time visitor, mussafah bus station is one of Abu Dhabi’s most essential public transport hubs, connecting thousands of passengers to destinations across the UAE every single day.
Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s Mussafah Industrial Zone, this station serves as a critical interchange between local city routes and long-distance intercity services. Its strategic positioning within the M-37 sector of the Mussafah Industrial Area — roughly 25 kilometres southwest of Abu Dhabi city centre — makes it the primary transit point for workers employed in factories, warehouses, and construction facilities, as well as for families living in the surrounding Shabiya residential blocks.
Overview and Location
Mussafah bus station is managed by the Abu Dhabi Mobility Centre (formerly known as the Integrated Transport Centre, or ITC). The official address is 28 Abu Ayoub Al Ansari Street, Mussafah Industrial Area, Abu Dhabi, near sectors 10 and 11 of the Shabiya community.
The surrounding area includes accommodation buildings, labour camps, supermarkets, cafés, and food outlets, making the station easily walkable for a large number of its daily users. It is conveniently positioned near major road arteries, including the E22 (Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road) and the E30 (Sweihan Road), which significantly aids intercity access. Nearby landmarks include Dalma Mall (also known as Mazyad Mall), Shabiya residential blocks, and the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD).
Why This Station Matters
Mussafah is described by many transport experts as Abu Dhabi’s industrial spine — a dense, working city filled with workshops, factories, warehouses, and residential accommodations for tens of thousands of employees. Mussafah bus station was purpose-built to serve this concentrated demand.
The station supports the following key functions within Abu Dhabi’s public transport network:
- Connecting the industrial labour force to central Abu Dhabi, reducing dependence on private vehicles
- Providing affordable intercity travel to Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, and the Western Region
- Linking Shabiya residents to commercial zones, schools, and healthcare facilities
- Serving as a feeder hub for employees at ICAD, MBZ City facilities, and surrounding industrial estates
Operating Hours
Mussafah bus station operates seven days a week, catering to both weekday commuters and weekend travellers. General operating hours are as follows:
| Service Type | Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| City / Local Buses | 5:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Intercity Services | 5:30 AM – 12:30 AM |
| Friday & Public Holidays | Reduced frequency; last trip around 11:00 PM |
| Night Service (Selected Routes) | Every 60–90 minutes |
Bus frequency increases significantly during peak industrial shift hours — typically early morning and early evening — to accommodate factory workers on staggered rosters.
Local Bus Routes
The local route network from this station covers wide areas of Abu Dhabi, linking residential neighbourhoods, commercial districts, and educational institutions. Below is an overview of the primary local services:
| Route Number | Destination | Key Stops | Approx. Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | Marina Mall, Corniche | Every 15–20 mins |
| 110 | Khalifa City | Shakhbout City, ADNOC | Every 20–30 mins |
| 155 | Baniyas East | Industrial zones, residential areas | Every 25–35 mins |
| 160, 161, 162, 163 | Abu Dhabi City | Various city stops | Regular intervals |
| 210, 218 | MBZ City | Mohamed Bin Zayed City stops | Every 30–40 mins |
| 441 | Al Shahama | Suburban residential areas | Every 30–40 mins |
Buses 111 and 116 are frequently used by workers travelling to and from ICAD, while feeder buses from Dalma Mall provide quick transfer connections for shoppers and commuters.
Intercity Bus Services
One of the most significant advantages of mussafah bus station is its direct intercity connectivity, allowing passengers to reach major UAE destinations without needing to travel to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station first. fujairah to sharjah bus timings
Mussafah to Dubai
The E102 bus is the most popular intercity service operating out of this station. It runs directly to Ibn Battuta Metro Station in Dubai, covering the journey in approximately 75 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. Operating hours for the E102 are from 6:20 AM to 11:40 PM, and it connects directly with the Dubai Metro Red Line, giving passengers seamless access to the wider Dubai public transport network.
The E100 service provides an alternative route to Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Bus Terminal via Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, which is ideal for travellers heading towards Deira, Bur Dubai, and the Gold Souq area.
Mussafah to Al Ain
The X90 express service links the station with Al Ain, with an approximate journey time of two hours. Buses run every 60 to 90 minutes throughout the day, making it a practical option for workers and families with ties to the Garden City.
Mussafah to Sharjah
The E201 route connects the station to Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah, where passengers can transfer to Sharjah city buses and connect onward to other northern emirates.
Fares and Payment Methods
Mussafah bus station accepts both cash and the Hafilat smart card, which is the official prepaid transit card for Abu Dhabi’s public bus network. Using a Hafilat card is strongly recommended, as it offers discounted fares compared to cash payments and significantly speeds up boarding.
Hafilat Card Details:
- Card purchase fee: AED 5 (non-refundable)
- Minimum top-up amount: AED 10
- City flat fare: AED 2
- Suburban routes: AED 2 plus AED 0.05 per kilometre
Pass Options:
| Pass Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Weekly Pass | AED 30 |
| Monthly Pass | AED 80 |
| Annual Pass | AED 500 |
For intercity travel, approximate fares are as follows:
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai (E102): AED 25 (Hafilat for the Abu Dhabi leg, Nol card for Dubai)
- Abu Dhabi to Al Ain: approximately AED 35
- Local city routes: AED 2–5
Hafilat cards can be purchased and topped up at ticket counters inside the station, self-service machines, the Darb app, and at authorised retailers across Abu Dhabi.
Facilities and Amenities
Mussafah bus station is equipped with a range of passenger-friendly amenities that make transit comfortable and convenient:
Inside the Station:
- Fully air-conditioned waiting areas
- Well-maintained restroom facilities
- Dedicated prayer rooms for passengers
- Digital route information boards and departure displays
- Ticketing counters staffed in both English and Arabic
- Wheelchair ramps and priority seating for passengers with disabilities
- Kiosks selling snacks, beverages, and travel essentials
Accessibility Features:
The station is designed to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. Ramps, accessible washrooms, low-floor bus options, and priority seating for the elderly and disabled are all available, ensuring inclusive access for all commuters.
Outside and Nearby:
- Taxi ranks and Careem/Uber pickup zones directly outside
- Free parking space for vehicle drop-offs
- Dalma Mall (Mazyad Mall) within a short walk for shopping, dining, and banking
- ATMs and pharmacies in the immediate vicinity
How to Reach the Station
Getting to mussafah bus station is straightforward regardless of where you are starting from:
- From Abu Dhabi City: Take buses 160, 161, 162, or 163 directly to the station
- From MBZ City: Board bus routes 210 or 218
- From Dalma Mall: Use local feeder bus connections for a quick transfer
- From ICAD: Buses 111 and 116 operate frequent services
- By Taxi or Ride-Hailing: Careem and taxis are available around the clock for direct access
- By Private Vehicle: Ample parking is available for those dropping off passengers
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
The area surrounding mussafah bus station is home to several notable destinations that commuters and tourists alike can access:
- Dalma Mall: A major shopping and dining destination within easy walking distance
- MBZ City Stores: Local supermarkets and retail outlets for daily necessities
- Roxy Cinemas: A contemporary cinema located nearby for entertainment
- Mussafah Waterfront: A recreational area for jogging and cycling
- ICAD (Industrial City of Abu Dhabi): A vast industrial complex that houses hundreds of manufacturers and logistics companies
Smart Travel Tips
Getting the most out of mussafah bus station requires a little advance planning. The following tips will help ensure a smooth journey:
- Download the Darb app before travelling — it provides real-time bus tracking, route planning, and live arrival information
- Always carry your Hafilat card topped up with sufficient balance to avoid delays at the gate
- Travel during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) if flexibility allows, as peak hours see significant crowd build-up
- Check route-specific schedules on the Abu Dhabi Mobility Centre’s official platform before heading out, especially on public holidays when frequency is reduced
- For the E102 Dubai service, arrive at least 10–15 minutes before departure, as seats fill up quickly during weekday mornings
Planned Upgrades and Future Development
The Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre has committed to ongoing improvements at mussafah bus station as part of Abu Dhabi’s broader public transport modernisation agenda. Planned upgrades include enhanced seating in waiting areas, installation of electronic route displays with real-time accuracy, increased bus frequency on high-demand routes, and potential solar panel installations as part of the emirate’s sustainability programme. These developments reflect Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision to make public transport more accessible, efficient, and environmentally responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct bus from Mussafah to Dubai?
Yes, the E102 bus operates a direct service from the station to Ibn Battuta Metro Station in Dubai, running daily from 6:20 AM to 11:40 PM with an average journey time of 75 to 90 minutes.
What is the fare for the E102 bus to Dubai?
The approximate fare is AED 25, using a Hafilat card for the Abu Dhabi portion of the journey and a Nol card for travel within Dubai.
How long does it take to travel from Mussafah to Abu Dhabi city centre?
Most local routes connecting the station to central Abu Dhabi take between 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic and the specific route taken.
Is the station wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the station is equipped with ramps, accessible washrooms, low-floor bus access, and priority seating areas to ensure mobility-challenged passengers can travel comfortably.
What payment methods are accepted at the station?
Passengers can pay using cash or a Hafilat smart card. The Hafilat card is recommended for faster boarding and lower fare rates.
Can I take a taxi from the station to Abu Dhabi International Airport?
Yes, taxis are readily available at the station’s taxi rank. Expect fares of approximately AED 60 to AED 80 depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
What time does the first bus leave the station?
City bus services begin from approximately 5:00 AM, while intercity services such as the E102 to Dubai start from 6:20 AM.
Is mussafah bus station safe at night?
The station is well-lit and staffed, making it safe for both male and female passengers during nighttime hours. Security personnel and CCTV systems are in place throughout the facility.
Conclusion
Mussafah bus station continues to be the backbone of daily mobility for one of the UAE’s largest and most active industrial communities. With a growing network of routes, upgraded facilities, and competitive fares, it remains the most practical and cost-effective gateway for commuters, workers, and travellers moving between Abu Dhabi and the wider Emirates.
