How to Go to Al Ain from Dubai

Red and white bus

Are you planning to travel to the picturesque city of Al-Ain from Dubai? The journey might take a couple of hours. Al-Ain is a well-connected city with an extensive network of roads and highways. The bus service is the most comfortable and cost-effective way to travel from Dubai to Al Ain.

This article will discuss the details of travelling to Al-Ain from DXB and back via bus, along with other options.

A passenger woman travelling in a bus

The Bus Service From Dubai to Al-Ain

Al-Ain, also called the Garden City, is the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It is an ideal weekend getaway with lush green gardens and other outdoor activities.

It is only 100 km away from Dubai, so getting there is relatively easy. You can get there by car, rental car, or taxi but the most cost-effective route is by bus.

There are two bus options for travelling Al Ain from Dubai. One is the regular bus, and the other is via minibus from the Al-Ghubaiba Station. This bus station is located west of Dubai Creek at Al-Shingada. It is easy to reach via a metro station on the Green Line or by taxi. 

From the metro station (Al-Ghubaiba), the bus station is only a 5-minute walk away. Before the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, the only route from DXB to Al-Ain was via Al-Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah. It would take more than three hours to reach the destination.

However, the RTA launched E201 in 2019, a new route allowing a direct bus service between the two Emirates.

Red and white bus

E201 Bus Service from Dubai to Al-Ain

The Dubai to Al-Ain bus route begins at the Al Ghubaiba Station. This bus service operates directly from DXB to Al-Ain. It allows a collaboration between the Department of Transport (DoT) Abu Dhabi and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai.

The E201 project aims to offer a cost-effective travel option between DXB and Al-Ain.

What is the Ticket Price of the E201 Bus Service from Dubai City to Al-Ain?

A one-way ticket for the E201 bus service to Al Ain from DXB costs AED 25. You can also use your NOL card to pay for the charges.

E201 Bus Timings and Stops

From the Al-Ghubaiba Bus Station, the first bus to Al-Ain leaves at 5:30 am. The last one departs at midnight. The buses leave every half an hour between these times, so don’t worry if you miss your morning bus.

However, on the weekends, the bus starts later, around 7:20 am. The last bus departs around 11:20 pm. The intercity bus rides in Al-Ain cost around AED 2.

The following points are where the E201 bus stops during the journey:

  • Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
  • Wasl
  • Wasl Club 1
  • Nad Al Shiba, Emirates NBD
  • Al Qattara Souq
  • Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street/Al Ain Gift Markets
  • Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street/Al Slimi Park
  • Ali Ibn Abi Taleb Street/Eid Prayer Ground
  • Al Madina Petrol Station
  • Al Ain Central Bus Station
Image of Dubai taxis under the bridge

From Al-Ain to Dubai

The bus from Al-Ain leaves at 6:00 am for DXB, with the last one departing around 9:00 pm. On weekends, the first bus departs at 7:00 am and the last one at 12:30 am. The following are the points where the bus stops while travelling from Al-Ain to DXB:

  • Al Ain Central Bus Station
  • Al Madina Petrol Station
  • Ali Ibn Abi Taleb Street/Eid Prayer Ground
  • Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street/Al Slimi Park
  • Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street/Al Ain Gift Markets
  • Al Qattara Souq
  • Nad Al Shiba, Emirates NBD
  • Wasl
  • Wasl Club 1
  • Al Ghubaiba Bus Station

Minibus From Dubai to Al-Ain

Another great travel option from Dubai to Al-Ain is via Al Ghazal minibuses. These buses also operate from the Al-Ghubaiba Bus Station, leaving after every 40 minutes. Additionally, the minibuses also depart from Bur Dubai, from the Bur Dubai Taxi Station.

Timings and Tickets

The first minibus to leave Dubai leaves at 5:40 am, while the last bus departs around 11:40 pm. The ticket price for one way is AED 20.

Emirates Bus Service

Another option for travelling Al Ain from DXB is via the Emirates Airline coach service. This service is available for passengers travelling in Economy class on the connecting flight EK7025. The coach departs from Dubai at 2:30 am and arrives in Al Ain at 4:15 pm. The drop-off point for the bus is Al Ain Mall.

A man tying his seatbelt

FAQs

1. What Is the Most Affordable Way to Travel Al Ain City from DXB?

The most affordable way to travel to Al Ain City from Dubai is by public bus.

2. What Is the Quickest Way to Reach Al Ain City from Dubai?

The quickest way to reach Al Ain City from Dubai is by driving. It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

3. How Far Is Al Ain City from Dubai?

Al Ain City is approximately 150 km (93 miles) from DXB, making it a relatively short drive.

4. What are the options for Travelling from Dubai to Al Ain City without a car?

You can use the Emirates Airline coach service and public buses. You can even hire a taxi for a comfortable and direct journey.

5. How Long Does Travel from DXB to Al Ain City take?

Travelling from Dubai to Al Ain City typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

6. Where Can I Board the Bus from Dubai to Al Ain City?

You can board the bus to Al Ain City from various bus stations in DXB. They include Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and Ibn Battuta Bus Station.

7. Is It Possible to Drive from Dubai to Al Ain City?

Yes, you can drive from DXB to Al Ain City. The journey is straightforward, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via major highways.

8. Where Are Some Accommodation Options Near Al Ain City?

Several accommodations are available near Al Ain City, including hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. Popular choices include the Ayla Hotel, Hilton Al Ain, and Al Ain Rotana.

This concludes our guide to travel options to Al Ain City from DXB The E201 bus service is convenient and cost-effective for frequent travellers. If you are new to Al-Ain and looking for a rental apartment, visit the Property Finder blog!

Share Your Thoughts

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *