Union Bus Station Dubai is one of the busiest RTA-operated transport hubs in Deira, connecting the Red and Green Metro Lines with city, feeder, and intercity bus services. Located in the heart of Deira, it provides seamless connections for commuters travelling across Dubai and neighbouring emirates, making it a preferred transport hub for residents, tourists, students, and daily commuters alike. More than a bus stop, Union serves as one of Dubai’s most important public transport interchanges, allowing passengers to transfer easily between metro lines and RTA bus services. Where metro riders, city commuters, and cross-emirate travellers all converge.
Union Bus Station Dubai: Complete Guide for Commuters & Travellers
Whether you’re commuting across Deira or heading to Sharjah, Ajman, or Abu Dhabi, Union Bus Station is one of the fastest gateways in and out of the city. This guide covers routes, live schedules, facilities, accessibility, feeder connections, and the fastest ways to reach the station, everything you need in one place.
Union Bus Station Quick Facts
Before diving into routes and timings, here’s a snapshot of what makes Union Bus Station one of Dubai’s most important transit hubs, its location, connections, and accessibility at a glance.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Nearest Metro | Union Metro Station (Red & Green Lines) |
| Bus Services | City buses, feeder buses, intercity buses |
| Intercity Connections | Sharjah, Ajman, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly, stroller access, clear signage |
| Facilities | Air-conditioned waiting bays, Nol card machines, toilets, convenience store |
| At a Glance | Information |
|---|---|
| Operated By | Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) |
| Station Type | Metro & Bus Interchange |
| Opened | RTA Transport Hub |
| Serves | Metro, City Buses, Feeder Buses & Intercity Buses |
| Best For | Daily Commuters, Tourists & Intercity Travellers |
| Payment Method | Nol Card |
| Wheelchair Accessible | Yes |
| Parking | Nearby Paid RTA Parking |
Why the Union Bus Station Dubai Is Important (Public Transport Hub)
Union Bus Station sits directly beside Union Metro Station in Deira, making transfers between the two virtually seamless. It is making it a one-stop exchange for thousands of commuters daily. It links the Red and Green Metro Lines and is one of the largest Public transport Union Square, Dubai. Dozens of city and inter-emirate routes depart from here daily, making it a first choice for both residents and tourists.
Union Bus Station Dubai Location (Deira – Map, Access & Landmarks)
Located in the heart of Deira, Union Bus Station sits within walking distance of the Creek, Al Rigga, and Baniyas Square, among the most central and accessible transit points in the city.
Nearby Landmarks
Nearby landmarks include:
- Dubai Creek
- Deira Clocktower
- Al Ghurair Centre
- Metro Station exit gates at the Union.
| Nearby Place | Walking Time | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Union Metro Station | Direct Access | Metro interchange (Red & Green Lines) |
| Al Ghurair Centre | 8–10 minutes | Shopping, restaurants & cafés |
| Dubai Creek | 5–7 minutes | Historic waterfront |
| Baniyas Square | 7 minutes | Traditional markets |
| Deira Clock Tower | 8–10 minutes | Popular landmark |
| Gold Souq | 10–15 minutes (Metro) | Famous gold market |
If you are planning to explore other parts of Dubai using public transport, check out our detailed Dubai Bus Stations Guide for routes and timings across the city, including key hubs like Deira City Centre and Al Karama Bus Stations for a complete commuter overview. For a deeper look at the major RTA terminals, including Al Ghubaiba, Gold Souq, Sabkha, Union, and Al Quoz, you can also read our comprehensive Top Dubai Bus Stations Guide for routes, facilities, timings, and essential commuter tips.
How to Reach the Union Bus Station in Dubai
The simplest way to reach Union Bus Station is by metro: take the Red or Green Line to Union Station, and the bus terminal is right outside the main exit.
Ways to Reach Union Bus Station
Parking and Taxi Drop-off at Union Bus Station: Drivers can use nearby paid public parking around Deira; RTA parking zones apply standard hourly rates payable via the Nol card or RTA parking apps. Taxis have a dedicated drop-off and pickup point directly outside the main terminal entrance, a short walk from the metro exits.
Quick Travel Tip
If you’re travelling during weekday rush hours (7:00–9:30 AM and 5:00–8:00 PM), allow an extra 15–20 minutes for queues at ticket machines and boarding intercity buses. Using the RTA S’hail app before leaving can help you check live bus departures and avoid unnecessary waiting.
| Mode | Details / Duration / Cost |
|---|---|
| Metro | Union Metro Station (Red & Green Lines), 1 min walk |
| Bus | Major routes stop at Union Metro Bus Stop 1-2, 3-1; 1–5 min walk |
| Taxi | Approx. 12 min from downtown Dubai, cost AED 35–40 |
| Car / Drive | 12.3 km from central Dubai, 12 min drive, parking available |
Union Bus Station Dubai Timings (RTA Schedule)
Union follows standard RTA operating hours, with most routes running from early morning until close to midnight; exact first and last departures vary by route.
Live Timetable & Service Updates
Although Union Bus Station follows standard RTA operating hours, bus departure times may change during public holidays, Ramadan, major events, or operational updates. Before travelling, check the official RTA S’hail app or the RTA Journey Planner for the latest live departure times and service notices.
The Union Bus Station Dubai schedule can be checked almost constantly with the help of the RTA app. This provides actual information in any case because the schedules can be different on weekends or holidays. For detailed, route‑specific schedules (including intercity buses), refer to the RTA / Nol transport timetable page.
Union Metro Station Dubai – Updated Train Timetable
| Route | Schedule |
|---|---|
| Union Metro Station → Etisalat (Green Line) | Mon–Thu: First Train 05:05 – Last Train 23:47 Fri: First Train 05:05 – Last Train 00:46 Sat: First Train 05:05 – Last Train 23:45 Sun: First Train 08:05 – Last Train 23:44 |
| Union Metro Station → Creek (Green Line) | Mon–Thu: First Train 05:00 – Last Train 23:42 Fri: First Train 05:00 – Last Train 00:41 Sat: First Train 05:00 – Last Train 23:41 Sun: First Train 08:00 – Last Train 23:41 |
| Union Metro Station → Expo 2020 (Red Line) | Mon–Thu: First Train 05:02 – Last Train 23:06 Fri: First Train 05:02 – Last Train 00:05 Sat: First Train 05:02 – Last Train 23:06 Sun: First Train 08:02 – Last Train 23:06 |
| Union Metro Station → Centrepoint (Red Line) | Mon–Thu: First Train 05:12 – Last Train 23:50 Fri: First Train 05:12 – Last Train 00:51 Sat: First Train 05:12 – Last Train 23:50 Sun: First Train 05:12 – Last Train 23:50 |
Major RTA Bus Routes from Union Bus Station, Dubai
Union offers some of the broadest bus coverage of any Dubai station, combining efficient city routes with long-distance regional service. It operates on local routes from Union Square Bus Station within the city of Dubai, or on long-distance travels. Bus Service Union Square Bus Station Dubai to popular destinations in the city. Some of the buses that you will come across here are:
- C-series flights to Satwa and Bur Dubai.
- Bus services that lead to Al Qusais, Ras Al Khor, and Al Nahda.
- It also includes several regional routes connecting nearby neighbourhoods across Dubai.
In case you are looking to get on the buses that will get you further in Deira or elsewhere in the city, the paths of the Union Square Bus Station reach pretty much every major area.
Major RTA Bus Routes from Union Bus Station
| Bus Route | Destination / Notes |
|---|---|
| C1 | Airport Terminal 3 – Satwa |
| C4 | Gold Souq – Government Workshop |
| C5 | Gold Souq – Al Ghubaiba Bus Station |
| C9 | Satwa – Hor Al Anz East |
| 11A | Gold Souq – Awir Terminus |
| 25 | Rashidiya Metro – Gold Souq |
| 27 | Gold Souq – Dubai Mall |
| X64 | Al Baraha – Ras Al Khor |
| 77 | Baniyas – Al Garhoud |
Popular Destinations from Union Bus Station
| Destination | Transport Type | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Mall | Bus / Metro | 20–30 minutes |
| Bur Dubai | Bus | 15–20 minutes |
| Al Qusais | Bus | 25–35 minutes |
| Sharjah | Intercity Bus | 35–50 minutes |
| Ajman | Intercity Bus | 50–70 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi | Intercity Bus | 2–2.5 hours |
| Al Ain | Intercity Bus | 2–2.5 hours |
Feeder Buses from Union Metro Station (F-Routes)
Union Metro Station connects with several feeder bus routes that provide convenient transport to nearby residential communities and commercial districts. These feeder services reduce walking distances and make transfers between the metro and local bus network faster and more convenient. Always confirm the latest feeder routes using the RTA S’hail app, as services may change over time.
| Feeder Route | Areas Covered |
|---|---|
| F01 | Union Metro – Union Metro Stop C |
| F04 | Al Garhoud – Sabkha Turnoff |
Intercity & Inter-Emirate Buses from Union Bus Station, Dubai
Union’s biggest advantage is intercity reach, travellers rely on it daily for affordable, direct bus connections to Sharjah, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Northern Emirates. Popular inter-emirate buses from Union Dubai. For commuters traveling further into Abu Dhabi, including Musaffah, our Musaffah Bus Station Guide explains all available routes and timings.
- Sharjah-bound buses
- Ajman-bound routes
- Long-distance express buses to Emirates North.
| Daily services to Ajman Central | Notes / Popular Routes |
|---|---|
| Sharjah | Regular buses, see Al Jubail Bus Station Guide |
| Ajman | Services to Abu Dhabi Central & Musaffah |
| Abu Dhabi | Services to Abu Dhabi central & Musaffah |
| Al Ain | Routes to major Al Ain terminals |
| Northern Emirates | Express buses to Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, etc. |
Union Bus Station Dubai offers regular buses to Sharjah, for full details on all Sharjah bus stations and routes, see our Sharjah Bus Stations Guide. For travellers heading to Sharjah from Union Bus Station or looking for detailed information on routes, schedules, and facilities, check out our complete Al Jubail Bus Station Sharjah Perfect Guide.
For detailed information on routes, schedules, and facilities at Muwaileh Bus Terminal in Sharjah, one of the key departure points for Dubai-bound and intercity commuters, check out our Muwaileh Bus Terminal Sharjah Guide.
Union Bus Station Dubai offers regular buses to Sharjah and other destinations like Al Ghubaiba. If you want full details on Al Ghubaiba Bus Station Dubai, including routes and timings, check out our dedicated guide. Union is an unbeatable choice, especially when you are in need of many choices within the same location, in case you commute often. For travellers heading to Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Guide provides full details on routes, schedules, and facilities.
If you frequently travel between Dubai, Sharjah, or Al Ain, you may also find our detailed Sharjah & Al Ain Bus Stations Guide helpful, it covers major routes, timings, and travel tips for smooth intercity travel across the UAE.
Union Bus Station Dubai Facilities & Services
Commuters consistently rate Union highly for cleanliness, organisation, and the range of on-site facilities. The Union Bus Station Dubai facilities and amenities have been made convenient and comfortable. There are facilities available such as:
- Air-conditioned waiting areas
- Digital route information screens
- Nol card vending and recharge machines
- Ticket assistance counters
- Public toilets
- Convenience stores
- ATMs nearby
- Taxi pick-up zone
- Easy Metro transfer
- Accessibility facilities
These facilities help make daily travel smoother, faster, and more comfortable.
Accessibility at Union Bus Station, Dubai (Wheelchair-Friendly Features)
Dubai’s public transport system is built for inclusive access, and Union Bus Station reflects that commitment directly. The station includes:
- Pathways and wheelchair access.
- Alternative assistants to special-needs riders.
- Good signage and announcement.
Union is highly accessible, suitable for passengers with mobility needs or parents using strollers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Access | Smooth ramps & pathways |
| Assistance | Alternative aids for special-needs passengers |
| Signage | Clear directions and announcements |
| Family-Friendly | Stroller-friendly areas |
Accessibility Features at Union Bus Station
Passengers with reduced mobility can move comfortably throughout the station using step-free pathways, ramps, tactile guidance, lifts, and dedicated assistance facilities. Parents travelling with strollers will also find the station easy to navigate due to its spacious walkways and direct metro-to-bus connections.
Union Metro Bus Station, Dubai – A Full Transport Hub
Union Metro Bus Station isn’t just a stop, it’s one of the central nodes of Dubai’s entire transport network. It serves as the lifeline of day-to-day commuting because it links two substantial metro lines, Red and Green. This network offers strong connectivity, making Union Bus Terminal one of the most important transport hubs in Dubai. This makes it one of the most significant transit points in the whole of the RTA system.
Tips for Using the Union Bus Station Dubai (For Fast & Easy Travel)
To make your trip more organised, smooth, and fast, remember the following: It is always a good idea to check the route and timing in the RTA application before going out.
- Top-up machines: Use Nol card top-up machines to join queues.
- Show up 10 minutes in advance in the high seasons.
- Do not confuse the metro and bus lines by taking different directions.
- Take feeder buses in case you are getting between residential localities.
These simple practices can make your journey more organised and stress-free.
Peak Travel Hours & Commuter Tips
Weekday mornings (7:00–9:30 AM) and evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) are generally the busiest periods, particularly for commuters travelling towards Sharjah, Ajman, and nearby business districts. If possible, travel outside these hours for shorter queues, easier boarding, and a greater chance of finding a seat.
Union Bus Station Ticket Counter
NOL Card Guide
| Nol Card Type | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Card | Regular travellers | AED 25 (includes travel credit) |
| Red Ticket | Tourists & occasional travellers | Pay per journey |
| Gold Card | Premium cabin users | Higher fare |
| Blue Card | Students, seniors & People of Determination | Eligible discounted fares |
Union Bus Station Nol Card Guide All RTA buses and metro services are cashless, you’ll need a Nol card to travel. You can buy and top up a Nol card at ticket machines inside Union Bus Station or Union Metro Station.
- Nol Blue Card: Discounted rate for students, UAE national seniors, and People of Determination
- Nol Silver Card: AED 25 (includes AED 19 travel credit) — best for most residents and repeat visitors
- Nol Red Ticket: Paper single-use ticket, AED 2 plus fare — good for a one-off trip
Lost & Found / Emergency Contacts
Lost & Found and Emergency Contacts: If you lose an item at Union Bus Station, report it at the station’s customer service point or via RTA’s official channels. For transport emergencies or assistance, RTA’s customer service can be reached through the RTA app or rta.ae, always confirm the current hotline number on the official site before publishing it here, as support numbers can change.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Travelling without enough Nol balance.
- Using the wrong metro exit when transferring.
- Arriving during rush hour without extra time.
- Assuming cash payments are accepted.
- Forgetting to check live RTA schedules before travelling.
- Boarding the wrong intercity bus due to similar platform numbers.
Final Thoughts
Union Bus Station Dubai remains one of the UAE’s most reliable public transport hubs, offering seamless connections between the Dubai Metro, city buses, feeder services, and intercity routes. Whether you’re commuting daily, exploring Dubai as a tourist, or travelling to neighbouring emirates, the station provides convenient facilities, excellent accessibility, and extensive transport connections. Before travelling, always check the latest schedules and fare updates through the official RTA S’hail app to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
If you’re looking for a station that blends comfort, accessibility, and unmatched convenience, Union is exactly where you should be. To plan your travel across the UAE efficiently, don’t forget to explore our UAE Bus Stations Guide for a complete overview of major stations and routes.
For more detailed guides, reviews, new cars, and information about vehicles and transport in the UAE, visit Dubai Wheels for all your automotive needs.
FAQs
What is the Union Bus Station in Dubai?
Union Bus Station Dubai is an RTA transport hub in Deira that connects the metro, city buses, feeder buses, and intercity routes to Sharjah, Ajman, and other emirates.
Where is the Union Bus Station located?
Union Bus Station is located in Union Square, Deira, right beside Union Metro Station, where both the Red Line and Green Line meet.
What are the main bus routes from Union Bus Station?
Union Bus Station serves routes across Deira, Bur Dubai, Al Qusais, and major intercity routes such as Sharjah (E303) and Ajman (E307).
What are the operating hours of Union Bus Station?
Most buses operate from early morning until late at night, with timings depending on the specific RTA route. The timings vary according to the RTA timetable and route.
How frequently are the buses at Union Bus Station?
Peak hours are 8-20 minutes between buses, but frequency varies depending on the route and time of day.
How much does it cost to travel from Union Bus Station?
The price ranges between AED 3 per way within the city and, depending on the distance, zone, and intercity destination.
How much does it cost to travel from Union Bus Station to Sharjah?
Fares vary by route and are zone/fixed-rate based, confirm the current one-way fare on the RTA app before travelling, as intercity pricing is updated periodically.
Can I pay cash on RTA buses at Union Station?
No. All RTA buses are cashless. You’ll need a Nol card or Nol Red Ticket, available from vending machines at the station.
Is Union Bus Station open 24 hours?
No, most routes operate from early morning until around midnight, with hours varying by specific route. Check the RTA app for your route’s exact first and last departure.
