🚗 How to Get to Sharjah in 2026: All the Ways to Travel from Dubai
Dubai–Sharjah travel guide
Sharjah — often called the Cultural Capital of the UAE — may not be as flashy as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, but it’s just as fascinating.
Located only 40 km (25 miles) northeast of Dubai, Sharjah is an easy and worthwhile day trip full of art, heritage, and history.
Whether you prefer scenic ferries, budget-friendly buses, or private rides, here’s everything you need to know about getting from Dubai to Sharjah.
⛴️ 1. Getting from Dubai to Sharjah by Ferry
Since 2019, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has operated a convenient ferry service linking the two emirates — and in 2025, it remains one of the most scenic and comfortable options.
🚤 Route & Duration
- Departure: Al Ghubaiba Marine Station (Bur Dubai)
- Arrival: Sharjah Aquarium Marine Station (near Al Khan)
- Duration: Approx. 40 minutes
- Frequency:
- Sun–Thu: Every 30 minutes (5:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
- Midday (off-peak): Every 90 minutes
- Friday: Every hour (2:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
💸 Tickets (2025 fares):
- Standard Class: AED 15 (~$4)
- Gold Class: AED 25 (~$6.80)
You can pay using your NOL Card or at the RTA marine ticket counter.
The ferry is air-conditioned, offers free Wi-Fi, and gives you incredible views of Dubai Creek and the Arabian Gulf.
🛥️ Tip: Sit on the upper deck in the evening — you’ll catch the sunset over the Gulf before arriving at Sharjah Aquarium.
🚌 2. Getting from Dubai to Sharjah by Bus
If you’re looking for the cheapest and most practical way, Dubai’s Intercity Bus Service is the best option. Managed by the RTA, these air-conditioned buses run frequently and efficiently throughout the day.
🗺️ Bus Routes (2025 Schedule & Stops):
| Route | Departure Station | Frequency | Destination | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E306 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station | Every 10–20 mins | Al Jubail Bus Station (Sharjah) | ~1 hr |
| E307 | Deira City Centre | Every 10–20 mins | Al Jubail Bus Station (Sharjah) | ~1 hr |
| E311 | Al Rashidiya Metro Station | Every 30 mins | Al Jubail Bus Station (Sharjah) | ~1 hr 15 mins |
💸 Fare: AED 18 (~$4.90)** via NOL Card or RTA app.
🚌 All buses are fully air-conditioned, equipped with USB charging ports, and have dedicated lanes in some sections to ease peak-hour traffic.
🕓 Tip: Avoid morning (7–9 AM) and evening (5–7 PM) rush hours — the Dubai–Sharjah highway can get congested.
🚘 3. Going from Dubai to Sharjah by Car or Taxi
If you prefer comfort and flexibility, traveling by private car or taxi is the fastest way outside of rush hours.
🚗 Distance & Duration:
- Distance: 40 km (25 miles)
- Travel Time: 35–50 minutes (depending on traffic)
You can take Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) or Al Ittihad Road (E11) — both are direct routes.
💸 Estimated Costs (2025):
- Uber / Careem / Dubai Taxi: AED 120–160 (~$33–44)
- Private Car with Driver (Full Day): AED 500–700 (~$135–190)
Apps like Careem, Uber, and RTA Hala Taxi offer pre-booking, digital receipts, and even carpool options.
⚠️ Note: Avoid driving into Sharjah during weekday mornings — heavy commuter traffic can double travel time.
🧭 4. Take a Guided Tour from Dubai to Sharjah
For first-time visitors who want to explore Sharjah’s landmarks with no transport worries, guided tours are a great option.
Typical half-day Sharjah tours include:
- Pickup and drop-off from Dubai hotels
- Visits to King Faisal Mosque, Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), Blue Souk (Souk Al Markazi), and Corniche waterfront
- Local guide commentary on culture and history
💸 Cost: From AED 150 (~$40) per person
✅ Includes transport, guide, and museum entry
🗺️ Book via: GetYourGuide, Viator, or Emirates Holidays
🚴♀️ 5. Private Transfers or Chauffeur Services
For luxury travelers or groups, private transfers are available 24/7 through companies like Blacklane, Careem Business, and Udrive Chauffeur.
Cars range from Toyota Camry sedans to Lexus and Tesla options, complete with bottled water, Wi-Fi, and professional drivers.
Perfect for business travelers heading to Sharjah Expo Centre, University City, or cultural sites.
⚖️ Local Customs & Etiquette in Sharjah (2026 Update)
Sharjah is known as the most traditional emirate in the UAE. While Dubai is cosmopolitan, Sharjah strictly upholds cultural and religious norms.
🕌 Things to Remember:
- No Alcohol: The sale and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited — even for tourists.
- Dress Code:
- Women should cover shoulders, knees, and midriff.
- Men should avoid sleeveless shirts and short shorts.
- Public Behavior: No public displays of affection; maintain respectful behavior in mosques and heritage areas.
- Photography: Always ask permission before photographing locals or government buildings.
Respecting these customs ensures a welcoming and positive experience.
🎨 Top Attractions to Visit in Sharjah
Once you arrive, there’s plenty to explore — most sites are close to each other and easily covered in a day.
🏛️ Cultural Highlights:
- Sharjah Heritage Museum – Deep dive into Emirati culture and traditions
- Sharjah Calligraphy Museum – Celebrating Arabic art and lettering
- Sharjah Art Museum – The largest in the Gulf, home to modern Arab masterpieces
- Al Hisn Fort – A restored fortress showcasing the city’s royal and political history
- Al Noor Mosque – The only mosque in Sharjah open to non-Muslims (guided tours available)
🛍️ Shopping & Leisure:
- Souk Al Markazi (Blue Souk): Over 600 stalls selling gold, carpets, and souvenirs
- Al Qasba Canal: Cafés, waterfront walks, and the Eye of the Emirates Wheel (60m high)
- Sharjah Aquarium: 250+ marine species
- Corniche & Flag Island: Scenic seaside areas perfect for an evening stroll
🎟️ Tip: Grab a Hop-On Hop-Off Sharjah Bus Pass (AED 130 per day) to explore all the main attractions at your own pace.
✅ Quick Summary: How to Get from Dubai to Sharjah
| Mode | Duration | Cost (AED) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry (RTA) | 40 mins | 15–25 | Scenic, relaxing, Wi-Fi onboard |
| Bus (RTA) | 1–1.2 hrs | 18 | Cheapest, frequent service |
| Taxi/Uber | 35–50 mins | 120–160 | Fast, convenient, door-to-door |
| Guided Tour | 4–6 hrs | 150–200 | Sightseeing + transport included |
| Private Car | Flexible | 500+ | Luxury, full-day use |
Planning a day trip to Sharjah from Dubai? Discover all the 2025 travel options — from scenic ferry rides and intercity buses to taxis, guided tours, and cultural tips.
🌅 Heading to Sharjah from Dubai?
Here’s how to do it — ferry, bus, taxi, or tour — plus cultural tips to make your visit memorable.
