It is common for tourists, commuters, and business travellers to travel between Sharjah, UAE, and Abu Dhabi. Knowing the Sharjah to Abu Dhabi bus times is essential for an efficient and on-time journey, whether you’re heading to work or visiting family, or if you want to explore Abu Dhabi. Roads and Transport Authority provides an organized bus service that connects the two emirates in comfort and punctuality.
This guide provides detailed schedules for buses, maps of routes, information on ticketing, and tips to help you make your journey more efficient.
The updated 117 bus route information for 2026
This route provides reliable and affordable travel to both tourists and daily commuters. This route is operated by Abu Dhabi Department of Transport in conjunction with the Integrated Transport Centre. It ensures punctual services along the main UAE highway.
The route is perfect for students, commuters, and tourists who are looking for a safe and cost-effective travel option. Buses are available throughout the day to meet passenger demands. This includes early mornings and evenings. The Hafilat Card or cash can be used at the counters to pay
| Details | Information |
| Bus Route Number | 117 |
| Starting Point | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| End Point | Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station |
| Operator | Abu Dhabi Department of Transport / ITC |
| Total Distance | Approximately 160 km |
| Average Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes – 3 hours 30 minutes |
| One-Way Fare | AED 33 |
| Frequency | Every 30–45 minutes |
| Service Type | Intercity Express |
| Payment Options | Hafilat Smart Card / Cash |
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi Bus Timing & Availability
Sharjah-Abu Dhabi buses run throughout the day, with different frequencies during peak hours and non-peak times. These timings are used by regular commuters to avoid waiting times and plan their trips.
- On weekdays, buses run every 15-20 minutes at peak times and 30-40 minutes off-peak.
- The frequency of the service is reduced, but some stops are still operational.
- Public holidays: The schedule may change. Check the RTA’s website or S’hail for live updates.
The last bus usually leaves Sharjah at 11:00 pm. Plan your journey to save time.
Tips for availability:
- You can use real-time bus tracking applications to track the location of your bus in real time.
- If possible, avoid traveling at peak hours (between 7-10 am and 5-8 pm).
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi 117 Bus Timetable
From early morning until late at night, the 117 bus provides a convenient and reliable service between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The bus is a convenient and affordable option for commuters and leisure travelers. You can plan efficiently and avoid waiting for long periods of time by knowing the departure times.
| Departure Time (Sharjah → Abu Dhabi) | Frequency | Notes |
| 3:45 AM | 45 mins | Early morning service |
| 4:30 AM | 45 mins | Early morning service |
| 5:15 AM | 45 mins | Morning commuters |
| 6:00 AM | 45 mins | Morning peak |
| 6:45 AM | 45 mins | Morning peak |
| 7:30 AM | 45 mins | Morning peak |
| 8:15 AM | 45 mins | Morning peak |
| 9:00 AM | 45 mins | Mid-morning |
| 9:45 AM | 45 mins | Mid-morning |
| 10:30 AM | 45 mins | Mid-morning |
| 11:15 AM | 45 mins | Late morning |
| 12:00 PM | 45 mins | Midday |
| 12:45 PM | 45 mins | Midday |
| 1:30 PM | 45 mins | Afternoon |
| 2:15 PM | 45 mins | Afternoon |
| 3:00 PM | 45 mins | Afternoon |
| 3:45 PM | 45 mins | Afternoon |
| 4:30 PM | 60 mins | Evening service begins |
| 5:30 PM | 60 mins | Evening |
| 6:30 PM | 60 mins | Evening |
| 7:30 PM | 60 mins | Evening |
| 8:30 PM | 60 mins | Evening |
| 9:30 PM | 60 mins | Night |
| 10:30 PM | 60 mins | Night |
| 11:30 PM | 60 mins | Last bus |
Important Points
- From 3:45 am to 4:30 pm, buses run every 45 minutes.
- Buses run every 30 minutes after 4:30 pm.
- It is easy to plan for trips because the timetables are consistent on weekdays as well as weekends.
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi Route Map with Stop Names
This route connects major cities and neighborhoods to Abu Dhabi, making it convenient for commuters.
Start Point
- Sharjah Central Bus Station
The Major Stops along the Route
- Sharjah Central Bus Station – Main hub for boarding.
- University City is a service that provides students and employees of the local universities with a place to stay.
- Al Taawun Road connects several residential areas.
- Dubai Airport Road-Interchange for bus services.
- Mussafah Industrial Area – Designed for businesses and workers.
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station/Al Wahda Terminal- Last stop in Abu Dhabi
The Interchange points:
- Passengers can change bus routes or metro lines at major stops.
- The two emirates are connected by a seamless network.
Distance from Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.
Total distance:
Depending on where you board and drop off, the journey from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi is approximately 140 km long. It is a popular intercity route, especially for business travel and tourists.
Average trip duration:
Normal traffic conditions allow travelers to schedule their days effectively.
Travel at peak hours:
Congestion on city and highway roads can cause travel times to be extended by up to three hours during busy periods, usually between 7-9AM and 5-8 PM.
Off-peak travel:
The journey takes less time and is more relaxed during non-peak times. It usually lasts around two hours.
Factors affecting travel time:
- Congestion: Traffic near Dubai’s highways, interchanges, and other major roads can cause delays.
- Detours or road construction: Road maintenance or temporary detours may cause extra travel time.
- Sandstorms or heavy rainfall can delay travel.
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi Bus Ticket
Information on the fare:
Calculation of fares for Sharjah-Abu Dhabi routes is done using the RTA Nol Card. The cost of a short feeder trip is usually between AED 5-10, depending on how many zones are crossed. Students, seniors, and those with determination can get discounted fares.
Ticket types available:
- One-way tickets are available for single trips.
- A return ticket is valid for a trip that takes place on the same day.
- Passes for weekly or monthly use: Perfect for commuters who need to travel frequently, and save time as well as money.
What is the best way to pay for a Sharjah-Abu Dhabi bus ticket?
The Nol Silver Card
This is the standard payment card that most people use to pay for their regular fares. Easy to recharge.
Nol Card Gold:
Access to the premium seats on buses. This offers a little more comfort for a slight price increase.
No Blue Card (Personalized).
Students, Seniors, and those with determination can apply. The card offers discounted rates and can be linked with the identity of the traveler for added convenience.
Paying Tips
- Avoid delays by topping up your NOL card before you board.
- Enter and exit the bus using your tap-in and tap-out device for an accurate calculation of fare.
- The RTA app allows you to plan trips, check the balance of your card, and reload your account online.
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi Bus Features
The modern buses offer a comfortable and safe journey. The following features are important:
Enjoy comfort and safety
- Air-conditioned buses to combat the hot weather in the UAE
- Interiors that are clean and comfortable.
- Safety measures on board include handrails, safety belts in some buses, and emergency buttons.
Accessibility Features
- Wheelchair-accessible buses with ramps.
- Priority seating is available for passengers who are elderly or determined.
- Stops are announced with audio announcements as well as visual indicators.
Convenience features
- A smooth suspension is essential for comfortable highway driving.
- Next stops are displayed on digital screens, along with real-time updates.
Sharjah RTA Customer Service
Contact RTA Customer Service for any queries, concerns, or assistance.
- RTA Contact number: 800 9090
- Official RTA apps: Journey planner and S’hail app
- Service Provided by:
- Find a lost item?
- Plan your route and get ticket information.
- Special needs support
Bus passengers are encouraged to bring up any problems to help ensure smooth, safe, and efficient bus operation.
Wrapping up
Bus travel from Sharjah is comfortable and environmentally friendly. Knowing the bus stops, timings and ticketing information will help commuters enjoy their journey. Plan and use the RTA app for real-time updates. Avoid peak hours whenever possible.
This guide will help you arrive on time, make a secure payment, and enjoy a smooth ride between these two emirates.
Relevant Blogs:
E303 bus route
X22 Bus Route Dubai
FAQs
1. What is the distance between Sharjah and Abu Dhabi by bus?
Travel time can vary between 2 and 2.5 hours depending on the traffic.
2. When are the bus first and last?
The first bus will leave at 4:30 am and the last one leaves at 11:00 pm.
3. Do I have to pay in cash at the airport?
Cash is not accepted. No cards are required for all passengers.
4. Is the bus wheelchair-accessible?
Most buses do have priority seating and ramps.
5. What is the frequency of bus service during rush hours?
During morning and evening peak times, every 20-30 minutes.
6. Do you offer discounts to students or seniors?
Blue Nol cards offer discounted fares to eligible passengers.
7. What is the best way to check bus schedules in real time?
Use the RTA S’hail App or RTA Journey Planner for live tracking.
8. Where are the main stops on the route?
Sharjah Central Bus Station, University City, Al Taawun Road, Dubai Airport Road, Mussafah Industrial Area, and Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
9. What are the public holidays for bus travel?
Check official RTA announcements for schedules.
10. How much is the Fare between Sharjah and Abu Dhabi?
The AED ranges from 5 to 10 depending on the travel zone and Nol Card type.
