Visiting Sharjah from Dubai is easy, with several transportation options to suit different budgets and travel styles. Whether you prefer public transit or private rides, here’s an expert guide for tourists on all the ways to travel between Dubai and Sharjah, including buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, rental cars, and more. We’ll also cover the pros and cons of each method so you can choose the best option for your journey.

Public Buses from Dubai to Sharjah

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) operates intercity buses that are the most budget-friendly way to reach Sharjah. These air-conditioned buses run regularly from various Dubai bus stations to Sharjah’s Al Jubail Bus Station (near the city center). Key RTA routes include:

• E303 – from Union Square Bus Station (Deira, Dubai) to Sharjah’s Al Jubail Bus Station.
• E306 – from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (Bur Dubai) to Al Jubail Bus Station.
• E307 – from Deira City Center Bus Station to Al Jubail Bus Station.
• E307A – from Abu Hail Metro Station (Dubai) to Al Jubail Bus Station.
• E315 – from Etisalat Metro Station (Al Qusais, Dubai) to Sharjah’s Muwailah Bus Station (near University City).
• E308 – NEW: from Stadium Bus Station (Al Nahda, Dubai) to Al Jubail Bus Station (launched May 2025).

These buses operate daily, typically from around 5:30 AM until 11 PM or later, with departures roughly every 20–30 minutes (more frequently during peak hours). Travel time depends on traffic; off-peak it can be as quick as ~40–50 minutes, while rush hour trips may take over an hour. Buses use Dubai’s Nol card for fare payment (no cash on RTA buses), and the fare is very affordable: around AED 12 one-way for Dubai–Sharjah routes. For example, the Union Square to Sharjah bus costs about AED 10–12.

Note: If you start your journey in Sharjah, the Sharjah Roads & Transport Authority (SRTA) runs its own intercity buses from Sharjah to Dubai (from Al Rolla Station) with route numbers 308, 309, 313, 113. These SRTA buses do not accept Nol cards and require buying a ticket (about AED 17 per trip). RTA buses are usually the better deal for tourists coming from Dubai (cheaper with Nol card at AED 12).

Pros of taking the bus: It’s extremely budget-friendly and buses run frequently throughout the day. The coaches are air-conditioned and relatively comfortable, with dedicated seating for women and families. It’s a great way to experience local commuter life and avoid driving.

Cons of taking the bus: Travel time can be variable due to traffic (expect anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour). You’ll need to get to one of the bus station start points, which might require a taxi or metro ride if not nearby. Buses can be crowded during peak commute hours, and you’ll be dropped at a central bus terminal in Sharjah – from there you may need a local taxi to reach specific attractions. Overall, it’s best for budget travelers with a bit of extra time.

Taxis (Official Dubai & Sharjah Taxis)

Taxis offer a convenient door-to-door ride between Dubai and Sharjah. In Dubai, official RTA taxis are cream-colored sedans (with various roof colors for different companies or categories). They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked by phone (e.g. via the Dubai Taxi call center) or apps. In Sharjah, silver-colored Sharjah taxis are similarly available. All official taxis are metered and regulated.

Cost: The taxi fare is based on distance and time. A typical trip from central Dubai to central Sharjah (around 25–30 km) will cost roughly AED 70 to AED 100 under normal traffic, and more if there are delays. In heavy rush-hour conditions, the fare can climb to around AED 130–150 for a one-way trip. The meter starts with a flag-down rate (around AED 5 in Dubai or AED 3–4 in Sharjah depending on time of day) and then about ~AED 2 per km. There is also a fixed surcharge of AED 20 applied when crossing between Dubai and Sharjah – this fee is added by both Dubai and Sharjah taxis for inter-emirate trips. Additionally, if the driver uses a toll road (Salik gate) en route, a AED 4 toll charge will be added for each gate passed. For reference, Sharjah’s transport authority estimates a typical Sharjah–Dubai taxi trip at around AED 150 total, though your actual fare can be lower for closer destinations or off-peak travel.

How to hail or book: In Dubai, simply wave at an available taxi on the street – they are plentiful in most areas. Alternatively, you can call Dubai’s taxi dispatch (for example, +971 4 2080808 or the toll-free 800-TAXI number) to arrange a pickup. In Sharjah, you can call the SRTA hotline 600-525252 for a taxi. Many taxis in both emirates are also available through smartphone apps (see next section on ride-hailing). Drivers generally speak basic English and know the common routes. Always ensure the driver starts the meter (it’s illegal for trips to be unmetered – if the meter isn’t activated, the ride should be free by law).

Pros of taking a taxi: Taxis are fast and convenient. You get a private vehicle directly from your hotel in Dubai to your destination in Sharjah. There’s no need to navigate or wait for schedules – the driver handles everything. Taxis are available 24/7, making them ideal for late-night or early-morning travel when public transport may be limited. You can also carry luggage easily, and the cars are air-conditioned and comfortable.

Cons of taking a taxi: The cost is much higher than public transport – potentially around 10 times the bus fare or more for a round trip. If traffic is bad, the ride not only takes longer but also gets more expensive as the meter keeps running (including a waiting charge of ~AED 0.50 per minute in slow traffic). Also, during peak hours it might be slightly harder to find an empty taxi immediately on the street (though booking via phone or app can help). Lastly, while taxis are reasonably priced compared to Western cities, for budget-conscious tourists the fares can add up, especially with the cross-emirate surcharge and tolls.

Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber, Careem, etc.)

Ride-hailing apps are a popular alternative to traditional taxis in the UAE. Uber and the locally-founded Careem (now a subsidiary of Uber) both operate in Dubai and Sharjah. Using a ride-hailing app, you can request a car on-demand through your phone – similar to a taxi, but all managed digitally.

With Careem, you have the option of booking a standard taxi through the app (“Hala” taxis in Dubai, which are official RTA taxis dispatched via app), or a private car (“Careem Comfort” or “Max” etc.). Uber primarily offers licensed private cars (sometimes called “limousine” cars) in various categories. Both apps will show you an upfront fare estimate before you confirm the booking.

Cost: The prices on Uber/Careem are comparable to, or slightly higher than, regular taxis, depending on the service level and demand. In normal conditions, a basic UberX or Careem ride from Dubai to Sharjah might cost around AED 60–80 (roughly $16–22) for a 30-40 minute trip. If you use the Careem Hala (Dubai taxi via app), the fare will be essentially the same as a metered taxi (around AED 2.1 per km) plus a small booking fee (~AED 4). Keep in mind that during peak times or high demand, surge pricing may apply on Uber/Careem – fares can jump higher than a standard taxi. The apps will include any toll fees in the quote as well. Payment is convenient: you can pay by credit card in-app (or cash, if you set that option with the driver).

Using the apps: Tourists will find that both Uber and Careem apps work in the UAE just like in other countries. You’ll need a data connection (Wi-Fi or mobile internet) to book. Simply set your pickup location in Dubai and drop-off in Sharjah. The app will show available cars nearby and an estimated arrival time for your driver. Wait times are usually short in city areas. One advantage is you can track your car’s approach and route in real time, and you have driver details for safety. It’s also easy to request larger vehicles (for groups or extra luggage) through the apps, or even specialty options like Careem Kids (with a child car-seat) if needed.

Pros of ride-hailing: This method is very convenient – you can summon a car to your doorstep without searching for a taxi. The fare is usually fixed upfront, so you know what you’ll pay (no surprises from traffic delays, aside from possible dynamic pricing before you book). Digital payment means no hassle with cash or change, and receipts are emailed to you. The cars and service tend to be reliable and comfortable, and you have the ability to rate drivers and get support through the app if any issue arises.

Cons of ride-hailing: At peak rush hour, or during special events, prices can surge above normal rates – sometimes making it more expensive than a street taxi. Also, if you’re not using a local SIM card or don’t have internet access, booking via app might be challenging (though many hotels and public places in Dubai have Wi-Fi you could use to book). Another consideration is that pickup in busy areas can be tricky – finding your Uber/Careem in a crowded pickup zone requires some coordination via the app or a phone call from the driver. Overall, though, ride-hailing is a tourist-friendly option offering comfort and ease, at a price point slightly below or around regular taxis in many cases.

Driving by Rental Car

For those who prefer to drive themselves, renting a car can be a great way to travel from Dubai to Sharjah – especially if you plan to do multiple day trips or continue exploring other emirates. Major car rental agencies (Hertz, Avis, Budget, local companies, etc.) are available throughout Dubai, including at the airport and in the city. Tourists can rent a car with a valid home country driver’s license (for certain nationalities) or an International Driving Permit, and must typically be 21+ years old.

Routes: Driving from Dubai to Sharjah is straightforward geographically but can be congested during peak times. The main connecting route is the E11 highway (Sheikh Zayed Road/Al Ittihad Road) which runs directly between the cities. This is the fastest route off-peak (around 30–40 minutes driving time), but it suffers heavy traffic during the morning and evening rush hours when thousands commute between Sharjah and Dubai. An alternative is to take E311 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road), which loops around the outer city – this route is a bit longer in distance but can be quicker during peak traffic since it bypasses the downtown bottlenecks. Another outer bypass is E611 (Emirates Road), useful if you’re heading to eastern or southern parts of Sharjah. It’s wise to check live traffic (for example on Google Maps) before you set out, to choose the optimal route and avoid jams.

Tolls: Dubai has automated toll gates called Salik on some highways. If you drive via Al Ittihad Road (E11) toward Sharjah, you will pass a Salik gate near the border (Al Mamzar toll gate), which costs AED 4 each time. Taking E311 or other routes can avoid tolls, but might add a few minutes of driving. Rental cars don’t require you to pay tolls on the spot – the Salik system will register it and the rental company will charge your account (often with a small admin fee per toll). Keep this in mind as a minor additional cost of driving.

Parking in Sharjah: If you drive, ensure you have a plan for parking at your destination. In Sharjah city, most street parking in commercial areas is paid parking (via meters or SMS) from about 8 AM to 10 PM Saturday–Thursday (with free parking on Fridays and public holidays, generally). Parking fees are typically 2 AED per hour in many areas. Always park in designated zones and pay the meter or use the specified app/SMS, as Sharjah traffic inspectors are strict and issue fines for violations. Popular tourist spots like the Heart of Sharjah heritage area, or Al Majaz waterfront, have parking lots but these can fill up on weekends. Some venues (malls, museums) offer free parking lots.

Advantages for tourists: Having a rental car gives you ultimate flexibility. You can travel on your own schedule – leave Dubai early in the morning, spend the whole day in Sharjah, and return late at night without worrying about bus timetables. It’s convenient if you’re traveling with family or a group, as you can all ride together and store your belongings in the car. A car also lets you explore beyond just the city center – for instance, you could drive to attractions like the Sharjah Desert Park or University City which are outside the main downtown. Fuel in the UAE is relatively cheap (a one-way Dubai–Sharjah trip might use only AED 20 or so worth of petrol). Rental rates can be reasonable (often around AED 100–150 per day for an economy car, though prices vary). Having a car means you can also easily visit other emirates if you plan to, making it a good option for an extended stay.

Drawbacks: Driving is not for everyone, especially if you’re not used to UAE’s roads. Traffic between Dubai and Sharjah is notorious during rush hours – you could end up stuck in slow-moving traffic for quite a while. This can be stressful if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Also, UAE driving can be fast-paced; highways have speed limits of 100–120 km/h and some drivers can be aggressive. Tourists must be confident in their driving skills and navigation. You’ll need a GPS or phone map to navigate the exits and city streets (Dubai and Sharjah have many signs in English, but the road layouts can be complex). Additionally, cost could be a con: besides the rental fee, factor in insurance, fuel, tolls, and possible parking charges. If it’s just a single trip to Sharjah and back, a rental car might end up costing more than using taxis or buses, unless you already need the car for other activities. Lastly, the driver must refrain from any alcohol if you plan on driving – the UAE has zero tolerance for drunk driving, so keep that in mind if you intend to enjoy any nightlife.

Other Transportation Options (Ferry & Private Transfers)

Beyond the usual road transport, there are a couple of other ways to travel between Dubai and Sharjah:

• Dubai–Sharjah Ferry: For a scenic and traffic-free journey, consider the RTA ferry service that connects the two emirates by water. Launched in collaboration with Sharjah’s transport authority, this ferry runs between Al Ghubaiba Marine Station in Dubai (near the historic old town area) and the Sharjah Aquarium Marine Station in Al Khan (Sharjah). The ferry ride takes roughly 35 minutes across the creek and coastline. It’s a comfortable journey on a modern air-conditioned ferry, offering views of the Dubai skyline and Sharjah’s waterfront. The fare is AED 15 one-way for Silver Class (standard seating) or AED 25 for Gold Class (upper deck lounge) – children under 5 and people of determination ride free. You can use your Nol card to pay or buy a ticket at the station. Do note that the ferry operates on a limited schedule: on weekdays there are morning and late-afternoon departures (e.g. around 7:00–8:30 AM from Sharjah and 7:45–10:00 AM from Dubai, plus late afternoon/evening return times), and on weekends the timings are in the afternoon and evening. This option is excellent for tourists – you avoid traffic altogether and enjoy a mini-cruise. The main drawbacks are the schedule constraints (only a few departures each day in each direction) and the fact that you’ll still need local transport to get from the ferry station to your final destination (e.g. the Sharjah Aquarium station is a short taxi ride from central Sharjah attractions). If the timings line up with your plans, the ferry is a memorable way to travel.
• Private Transfers or Shuttles: If you prefer a hassle-free, pre-arranged ride, you can book a private transfer service. Many tour companies and hotels in Dubai offer chauffeured transfers to Sharjah. For example, if your hotel is in Dubai and you plan a day trip to Sharjah, ask if they have a shuttle or can arrange a driver – some might offer this (occasionally even complimentary shuttles to sister hotels or popular sites in Sharjah). There are also online services where you can reserve a car and driver at a fixed price. Prices for private transfers vary depending on the vehicle type (sedan, SUV, van) and service level, but expect it to be in the range of a taxi or a bit higher (perhaps AED 150 or more for a one-way trip in a private car). The upside is you get personalized service – the driver will pick you up at a scheduled time, wait for you if arranged, and you can often request multiple stops (for a custom tour) if you’ve booked for a duration. This can be a good option for groups or families who want a guided trip – some tour operators even provide a guide to show you around Sharjah’s cultural landmarks. The downside is obviously the cost (it’s one of the most expensive ways to go) and it usually requires booking in advance rather than on-demand.
• Shared Carpooling: You might hear about informal “car lift” services or van pools between Dubai and Sharjah, used by daily commuters. These are not official and generally not advisable for short-term visitors. They involve sharing a ride in a private car or minibus for a small fee. While they can be cheap, they operate illegally (outside of the regulated transport system) and can have safety or reliability issues. Tourists are better off sticking to the official modes described above for comfort and safety.

Choosing the Best Option

For most tourists, the choice will come down to budget vs. convenience. If you’re watching costs, the public bus (at just AED 12) is unbeatable value – just plan for the extra time and the short onward ride within Sharjah. If you prioritize speed and door-to-door comfort, a taxi or ride-hail will get you there directly, with taxis being readily available and apps providing ease of use. For adventurers or those seeking a unique experience, the ferry ride is highly recommended as a scenic alternative to the highway. And if you love driving or have multiple stops, a rental car offers freedom to explore on your own schedule.

By knowing the pros and cons of each option – from cost implications to travel times – you can make an informed decision that fits your itinerary. No matter which mode you choose, Dubai and Sharjah are well-connected and relatively short distances apart. With this guide in hand, you’ll be well prepared to travel between the two emirates smoothly and enjoy all that both cities have to offer. Safe travels!