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Al Ain Bus Station 2026: Routes, Timings, Fares & Central Station Guide
Al Ain Bus Station, also known as Al Ain Central Bus Station, is the main public transport hub for local and intercity bus travel in Al Ain.
Located in central Al Ain near the Zayed Bin Sultan Street corridor, Al Ain Mall and Al Ain Oasis, the station provides connections across the city as well as long-distance services toward Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other emirates.
It is particularly useful for passengers travelling to:
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station;
- Dubai and Al Ghubaiba;
- Al Ain Mall;
- Al Jimi Mall;
- Al Ain Zoo;
- Al Ain Oasis;
- UAE University;
- Al Maqam;
- Al Towayya;
- Falaj Hazza;
- Al Markhaniya;
- and Al Sarooj.
The station also provides waiting areas, ticketing facilities, passenger information, accessibility features, taxis and parking.
Al Ain Bus Station Quick Guide
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Station | Al Ain Central Bus Station |
| Also known as | Al Ain Bus Station |
| Location | Central Al Ain |
| Main road | Zayed Bin Sultan Street |
| Nearby area | Hai Al Souq |
| Operator | Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) |
| Services begin | Around 5:00 AM on many routes |
| Dubai route | E201 |
| Abu Dhabi route | X90 |
| Main local routes | 900, 950, 960, 970, 991 |
| Payment | Hafilat Card for most local services |
| Intercity fare range | Around AED 25–40 |
| Taxi access | Available |
| Parking | Available near/on site |
| Nearby attractions | Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain Mall, Al Ain Zoo |
Individual bus routes have their own first and last departures, so passengers should check their exact route rather than relying on one general station opening time.
Is Al Ain Central Bus Station the Same as Al Ain Bus Station?
Yes.
Al Ain Central Bus Station and Al Ain Bus Station are commonly used for the city’s main central bus terminal.
You may also see references to smaller stops and stations around Al Ain, including:
- Al Jimi Bus Station;
- Al Maqam Bus Stop;
- Al Towayya Bus Stop;
- Sanaiya Bus Station;
- industrial-area stops;
- and Al Ain Zoo bus stops.
These are different from the main Al Ain Central Bus Station.
Where Is Al Ain Bus Station?
Al Ain Bus Station is located in central Al Ain, around the Hai Al Souq and Zayed Bin Sultan Street area.
It is also close to Othman Bin Affan Street and several important city destinations.
Nearby places include:
- Al Ain Mall;
- Al Ain Oasis;
- Al Ain Museum;
- Al Mutaredh;
- Al Jimi;
- Al Karama Centre;
- and other central residential and commercial districts.
Its location makes it practical for both local commuting and long-distance travel.
How to Reach Al Ain Central Bus Station
There are several ways to reach the station.
By Local Bus
Local Al Ain bus routes connect residential neighbourhoods, universities, shopping centres and commercial areas with the central station.
Routes serving or connecting with the terminal include services such as:
- 360;
- 380;
- 900;
- 950;
- and other local routes.
By Taxi
Taxis are widely available in Al Ain and are one of the easiest options when:
- carrying luggage;
- travelling with children;
- arriving late;
- or starting from an area without a convenient direct bus.
By Car
The station can be reached from Al Ain’s main road network.
Parking and passenger drop-off areas are available around the terminal.
By Intercity Bus
Passengers arriving from Abu Dhabi or Dubai can continue directly into Al Ain through intercity services.
Al Ain Bus Station Timings
There is no single first and last bus time that applies to every route.
Many services begin from approximately:
5:00 AM
Local and intercity buses then operate throughout the day, with some routes continuing into the late evening.
General Timing Guide
| Service | First Departure | Last Departure | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Al Ain buses | Around 5:00 AM | Around 11:00 PM | 15–30 min on many services |
| Abu Dhabi | Around 5:30 AM | Around 11:30 PM | 30–60 min |
| Dubai E201 | Around 6:00 AM | Varies; selected late services continue after midnight | Around hourly |
| Sharjah connection | Around 7:00 AM | Around 9:00 PM | Limited service |
These are planning times rather than a guarantee for every day.
Weekend, holiday and route-specific schedules can differ.
Al Ain Local Bus Timings
Local bus services normally operate frequently during the busiest parts of the day.
During peak periods, some routes run approximately every:
15–30 minutes
Outside peak periods, waiting times can be longer.
Weekend services may also start later on some routes.
For an important journey, check the current departure board before leaving the station.
Popular Al Ain Bus Stop Timetable
The following timetable provides useful departure references for several stops around the central station corridor.
| Stop Code | Stop | Example Departures |
|---|---|---|
| 90888.A | Central Bus Station | 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, 11:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00, 21:00 |
| 904248 | Zayed Bin Sultan St 137 / Al Ain Bus Station | 5:02, 7:02, 9:02, 11:02, 15:02, 17:02, 19:02, 21:02 |
| 904200 | Zayed Bin Sultan St 137 / Sheikha Salama Mosque | 5:04, 7:04, 9:04, 11:04, 15:04, 17:04, 19:04, 21:04 |
| 904168 | Zayed Bin Sultan St 137 / Department of Public Health | 5:05, 7:05, 9:05, 11:05, 15:05, 17:05, 19:05, 21:05 |
| 902260 | Khalifa Bin Zayed St 135 / Jebel Roundabout | 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, 11:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00, 21:00 |
Always check the current timetable because individual stop times can change.
Main Intercity Routes From Al Ain Bus Station
The two most important long-distance travel corridors are Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
| Destination | Route | Approx. Travel Time | Frequency | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai – Al Ghubaiba | E201 | 1.5–2.5 hr | Around hourly | AED 25–30 |
| Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station | X90 | Around 2–2.5 hr | 30–60 min / around hourly | Around AED 25+ |
| Sharjah | Check current service | Around 3 hr | Limited | Around AED 30–35 |
| Other emirates | Connections vary | Varies | Limited | Usually higher for longer journeys |
Al Ain to Dubai Bus
The E201 is the main route to check for travel between Al Ain and Dubai.
The Dubai terminal is associated with Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, which provides useful onward connections throughout Bur Dubai and other parts of the city.
E201 Al Ain to Dubai
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | E201 |
| Origin | Al Ain Central Bus Station |
| Destination | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Dubai |
| First bus | Around 6:00 AM |
| Frequency | Around hourly |
| Travel time | Around 1.5–2.5 hr |
| Fare | Around AED 25–30 |
| Late services | Selected services can continue late at night |
On some days, E201 services can continue substantially later than ordinary daytime bus hours.
Check the day-specific timetable if travelling after 10:00 PM.
What Time Is the First E201 Bus From Al Ain?
The first E201 bus normally begins at approximately:
6:00 AM
Weekend departures can differ.
What Time Is the Last Al Ain to Dubai Bus?
The final departure varies by day.
Some schedules include late-night E201 services continuing close to 12:50 AM on selected days.
Do not assume that this late departure operates every day.
How Long Is Al Ain to Dubai by Bus?
Allow approximately:
1.5 to 2.5 hours
for a typical journey.
Traffic and the number of stops can affect actual travel time.
How Much Is Al Ain to Dubai Bus Fare?
The approximate fare is:
AED 25–30
Check the current fare before travelling because intercity prices can change.
Where Does the Al Ain to Dubai Bus Arrive?
The main Dubai connection is associated with:
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
Al Ghubaiba is useful for onward travel toward:
- Bur Dubai;
- Dubai Creek;
- Al Fahidi;
- Metro connections;
- marine transport;
- and additional RTA bus routes.
Dubai to Al Ain Bus
Passengers travelling from Dubai can use the same intercity corridor in the opposite direction.
Al Ghubaiba is the main Dubai terminal to check for Al Ain services.
If you are starting from elsewhere in Dubai, use the Metro or another RTA service to reach Al Ghubaiba before your intercity departure.
Al Ain to Abu Dhabi Bus
For travel between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, the main route to check is:
X90
X90 Al Ain to Abu Dhabi
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | X90 |
| Destination | Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
| First services | Around 5:30 AM |
| Last services | Around 11:30 PM |
| Frequency | Around 30–60 min |
| Travel time | Around 2–2.5 hr |
| Fare | Around AED 25, depending on current fare |
This is one of the most important intercity routes for residents commuting between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi.
How Long Is Al Ain to Abu Dhabi by Bus?
Allow around:
2 to 2.5 hours
The actual journey depends on traffic and operating conditions.
How Much Is Al Ain to Abu Dhabi Bus Fare?
A useful planning figure is approximately:
AED 25
Broader intercity fares from Al Ain can range up to approximately AED 40 depending on the route and destination.
Al Ain to Sharjah Bus
Travel between Al Ain and Sharjah is possible through the intercity network.
The Sharjah journey is longer and services are less frequent than the main Dubai and Abu Dhabi routes.
Sharjah Planning Guide
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Destination | Sharjah / Al Jubail area |
| Approx. travel time | Around 3 hr |
| Frequency | Limited |
| Approx. fare | Around AED 30–35 |
| Route number | Check current departure information |
Allow additional time for longer-distance traffic and transfers.
Because different timetable listings show inconsistent route numbers for the Sharjah service, use the destination display and current station timetable rather than relying on a memorised route number.
Other Intercity Travel From Al Ain
Long-distance travel can also be arranged toward other parts of the UAE, including destinations such as:
- Ajman;
- Fujairah;
- Hatta;
- and other emirates.
Some journeys may require a connection rather than a direct bus.
Check the current intercity network before travelling.
Local Bus Routes From Al Ain Central Bus Station
The station is also an important interchange for travelling within Al Ain itself.
Major local routes include:
| Route | Main Areas / Destinations |
|---|---|
| 900 | Al Ain Mall, Al Jimi Mall, Al Ain Zoo |
| 960 | Al Mutaredh, Al Towayya, Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain Museum |
| 950 | Al Maqam, university area |
| 991 | Al Markhaniya, Falaj Hazza |
| 970 | Al Sarooj, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club |
These routes make it possible to use Al Ain Central Bus Station as the starting point for shopping, university travel, commuting and sightseeing.
Route 900: Al Ain Mall, Al Jimi Mall and Al Ain Zoo
Route 900 is one of the most useful local routes for visitors.
It connects the central transport network with:
- Al Ain Mall;
- Al Jimi Mall;
- and Al Ain Zoo.
This makes Route 900 useful for both shopping trips and family outings.
Al Ain Bus Station to Al Ain Zoo
Al Ain Zoo is one of the strongest destination searches associated with the station.
Route 900 is a key local service to check for the zoo corridor.
Al Ain Zoo is also approximately an 18-minute drive from the central station area.
Traffic and the exact bus stops can affect public-transport travel time.
Route 960: Al Ain Oasis and Al Ain Museum
Route 960 serves a cultural and central Al Ain corridor.
Important areas include:
- Al Mutaredh;
- Al Towayya;
- Al Ain Oasis;
- and Al Ain Museum.
This route is particularly useful for visitors exploring Al Ain’s heritage attractions.
Al Ain Bus Station to Al Ain Oasis
Al Ain Oasis is one of the city’s most important nearby attractions.
Route 960 serves the broader Oasis corridor.
By road, the Oasis is approximately a 9-minute drive from the station area.
Route 950: Al Maqam and University Area
Route 950 serves:
- Al Maqam;
- university areas;
- and communities around Al Ain’s educational institutions.
It is particularly useful for students and staff commuting between the central station and the university district.
Route 991: Al Markhaniya and Falaj Hazza
Route 991 connects the central transport network with:
- Al Markhaniya;
- Falaj Hazza;
- and surrounding residential areas.
Route 970: Al Sarooj and Sports Facilities
Route 970 serves the Al Sarooj corridor.
It also provides access toward the:
Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club
This route can be useful for residents and visitors heading toward recreational and sports facilities.
Popular Places From Al Ain Bus Station
| Destination | Connection / Planning Guide |
|---|---|
| Al Ain Mall | Route 900 / short local trip |
| Al Jimi Mall | Route 900 |
| Al Ain Zoo | Route 900 / approx. 18 min by road |
| Al Ain Oasis | Route 960 / approx. 9 min by road |
| Al Ain Museum | Route 960 / approx. 3 min by road |
| Al Maqam | Route 950 |
| University area | Route 950 |
| Falaj Hazza | Route 991 |
| Al Sarooj | Route 970 |
| Al Jahili Fort | Approx. 15 min by road |
| Al Ain International Airport | Approx. 30 min by road |
Al Ain Bus Station to Jebel Hafeet
Jebel Hafeet is outside the immediate central station area.
There is no single direct Jebel Hafeet bus number that should be assumed for every journey.
For a visit, check current local public-transport options or use a taxi for the final part of the journey.
Al Ain Bus Station to Al Ain International Airport
Al Ain International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive from the central station area.
A specific direct airport bus number should not be assumed without checking the current network.
For time-sensitive airport travel, confirm the latest connection before departure or use a taxi.
Other Bus Stations and Stops in Al Ain
Al Ain has several smaller bus stations and transport stops in addition to the central terminal.
Al Jimi Bus Station
Serves the Al Jimi area and nearby residential and commercial districts.
Al Maqam Bus Stop
Useful for:
- students;
- university staff;
- and surrounding residential communities.
Al Towayya Bus Stop
Serves Al Towayya and nearby:
- schools;
- parks;
- and residential areas.
Sanaiya Bus Station
Provides transport access for the industrial area and is particularly useful for workers and residents.
Al Ain Zoo Bus Stop
Provides convenient access for zoo visitors and local services connecting back toward central Al Ain.
Bus Fares From Al Ain Central Bus Station
Intercity fares generally fall in the range of approximately:
AED 25–40
depending on:
- destination;
- route;
- travel distance;
- and current fare policy.
Approximate Intercity Fares
| Destination | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|
| Dubai | AED 25–30 |
| Abu Dhabi | Around AED 25 |
| Sharjah | Around AED 30–35 |
| Longer intercity journeys | Can reach AED 40 or more |
Local Al Ain journeys are generally cheaper than intercity travel.
Hafilat Card at Al Ain Bus Station
The Hafilat Card is the main transport card to keep ready when using local public buses in Al Ain and the Abu Dhabi emirate.
Passengers should keep enough balance available before travelling.
For local services, passengers generally:
- board the bus;
- tap their Hafilat Card;
- complete the journey;
- tap out as required.
Can You Pay Cash on Al Ain Buses?
Cash acceptance can be limited and should not be relied on for every service.
A topped-up Hafilat Card is the safer option for local travel.
For long-distance intercity travel, confirm the payment and ticketing method for your specific route before boarding.
Ticketing at Al Ain Bus Station
Ticketing facilities at the station include:
- staffed counters;
- automatic ticketing machines;
- passenger-information services;
- and digital route information.
For long-distance journeys, arriving before departure gives you time to confirm your ticket and boarding area.
Facilities at Al Ain Bus Station
Al Ain Central Bus Station provides practical facilities for local and intercity travellers.
| Facility | Available |
|---|---|
| Air-conditioned waiting areas | Yes |
| Ticket counters | Yes |
| Automatic ticket machines | Yes |
| Digital route displays | Yes |
| Real-time passenger information | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Refreshment kiosks | Yes |
| Accessibility facilities | Yes |
| Parking | Available |
| Taxi services | Available |
Air-Conditioned Waiting Areas
Large indoor waiting spaces provide relief during Al Ain’s hotter months.
These areas are particularly useful when waiting for long-distance services to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Digital Information Displays
Electronic screens provide information about:
- departures;
- routes;
- timetable changes;
- and possible delays.
Check the display shortly before boarding even if you already know the scheduled time.
Refreshment Kiosks
Small kiosks and vending facilities provide items such as:
- water;
- drinks;
- snacks;
- and other basic travel supplies.
Accessibility
The station includes accessibility features for passengers with mobility needs.
These include:
- ramps;
- accessible toilets;
- tactile paths;
- designated seating;
- lifts/elevators where applicable;
- clear signs;
- and staff assistance.
The facilities are also useful for families travelling with strollers.
Parking and Taxis
Parking is available around the central station area.
Taxi ranks and taxis nearby provide convenient last-mile travel to destinations not directly served by your bus.
Al Ain Bus Station Contact Number
For public transport enquiries in the Abu Dhabi emirate, including Al Ain services, passengers can use:
800 850
This can be useful for questions about:
- bus routes;
- schedules;
- transport services;
- and general passenger information.
Nearby Places Around Al Ain Bus Station
The station is close to several well-known areas and attractions.
Al Ain Mall
Al Ain Mall is one of the closest major shopping destinations.
It can be reached by local bus, taxi or a short drive.
Al Ain Oasis
Al Ain Oasis is a major heritage and green-space attraction close to the central area.
Route 960 serves the broader corridor.
Al Ain Museum
Al Ain Museum is also close to the station and can be reached through the local transport network.
Al Jahili Fort
Al Jahili Fort is another major cultural landmark in Al Ain.
It is approximately a 15-minute drive from the station area.
Al Jimi
Al Jimi is an important residential, educational and shopping district connected to the central station network.
Al Mutaredh
Al Mutaredh is another central residential area with convenient access to Al Ain Bus Station.
Approximate Driving Times From Al Ain Bus Station
| Destination | Approx. Drive |
|---|---|
| Al Ain Museum | 3 min |
| Al Ain Mall | 4 min |
| Al Karama Centre | 5 min |
| Burjeel Royal Hospital | 6 min |
| Al Ain British Academy | 7 min |
| Al Ain Oasis | 9 min |
| Al Jahili Fort | 15 min |
| Al Ain Zoo | 18 min |
| Al Ain International Airport | 30 min |
Traffic can affect these estimates.
Peak Hours at Al Ain Bus Station
The station is generally busiest during normal commuting periods:
- weekday mornings;
- late afternoons;
- and evenings.
Local routes may operate more frequently when passenger demand is high.
If you prefer a quieter journey, mid-morning or early afternoon can be more comfortable.
Tips for First-Time Passengers
Check Your Route Before Leaving
Intercity and local timetables can change on weekends, holidays and special occasions.
Arrive Early
For ordinary intercity trips, arriving around 10–20 minutes before departure gives you time to find the correct bus and check the timetable.
Keep Your Hafilat Card Topped Up
Do not wait until boarding to discover that your balance is insufficient.
Check the Digital Displays
Departure information can change, so check station screens even if you have already viewed a timetable online.
Know Your Destination Stop
Local buses can serve several neighbourhoods along one route.
Know where you need to leave the bus before travelling.
Allow More Time for Long-Distance Journeys
Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah travel times can change because of road conditions.
Use Taxis for Difficult Last-Mile Connections
For destinations such as Jebel Hafeet or time-sensitive airport journeys, a taxi can be more practical for the final section of the trip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Confusing Al Ain Central Bus Station With Smaller Local Stops
The main central station is different from Al Jimi, Al Maqam, Sanaiya and other local stops.
Assuming Every Intercity Route Runs Hourly
Dubai and Abu Dhabi services are relatively frequent, but other emirate connections can be much less frequent.
Assuming Cash Is Always Accepted
Keep a Hafilat Card ready for local travel.
Using an Old Sharjah Route Number
Sharjah service information can change. Check the current departure board rather than relying only on an old route number.
Ignoring Weekend Timings
Some routes start later or follow different frequencies on Friday, Saturday and public holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is Al Ain Bus Station?
Al Ain Bus Station is located in central Al Ain, near the Zayed Bin Sultan Street corridor, Al Ain Mall and Al Ain Oasis.
Is Al Ain Bus Station the Same as Al Ain Central Bus Station?
Yes. Both names commonly refer to the main central bus terminal.
What Time Does Al Ain Bus Station Open?
Many local and intercity services begin around 5:00 AM, although first departures depend on the route.
What Time Is the Last Bus From Al Ain?
There is no universal last-bus time.
Local services commonly finish in the late evening, while selected intercity services can operate later.
Which Bus Goes From Al Ain to Dubai?
Use E201 for the Al Ain–Dubai corridor.
Where Does E201 Go in Dubai?
The main Dubai destination is Al Ghubaiba Bus Station.
What Time Is the First E201 Bus From Al Ain?
The first service is generally around 6:00 AM.
How Long Is Al Ain to Dubai by Bus?
Allow approximately 1.5–2.5 hours.
How Much Is the Bus From Al Ain to Dubai?
Approximately AED 25–30.
Are There Late-Night Buses From Al Ain to Dubai?
Yes. Selected schedules can include E201 departures extending close to 12:50 AM, but this should be checked for your specific travel day.
Which Bus Goes From Al Ain to Abu Dhabi?
The main route to check is X90.
How Long Is Al Ain to Abu Dhabi by Bus?
Approximately 2–2.5 hours.
How Much Is Al Ain to Abu Dhabi?
A useful planning fare is around AED 25, subject to current fare rules.
Is There a Bus From Al Ain to Sharjah?
Yes, intercity travel to Sharjah is available, although it is less frequent than Dubai or Abu Dhabi services.
Check the current station timetable for the route number and departure.
Which Bus Goes From Al Ain Bus Station to Al Ain Zoo?
Route 900 is a key service connecting the station with Al Ain Mall, Al Jimi Mall and Al Ain Zoo.
Which Bus Goes to Al Ain Oasis?
Route 960 serves the Al Ain Oasis corridor.
Which Bus Goes to Al Ain University?
Route 950 serves Al Maqam and the university area.
Which Bus Goes to Falaj Hazza?
Route 991 serves Al Markhaniya and Falaj Hazza.
Does Al Ain Bus Station Use Hafilat?
Yes. Hafilat is the primary card to keep ready for local public bus travel.
Can I Pay Cash?
Cash acceptance can be limited and is not guaranteed on every route. Keep a topped-up Hafilat Card ready.
Does Al Ain Bus Station Have Air Conditioning?
Yes. Air-conditioned waiting areas are available.
Are There Toilets at Al Ain Bus Station?
Yes. Passenger restroom facilities are available.
Does Al Ain Bus Station Have Parking?
Parking is available around the station.
Are Taxis Available?
Yes. Taxi services are available near the terminal.
Is Al Ain Bus Station Accessible for People With Disabilities?
Yes. Accessibility features include ramps, accessible restrooms, seating, signage and passenger assistance.
How Far Is Al Ain Zoo From the Bus Station?
By road, allow approximately 18 minutes.
How Far Is Al Ain Oasis From the Bus Station?
By road, allow approximately 9 minutes.
How Far Is Al Ain Airport From the Bus Station?
Al Ain International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive from the central station area.
Final Al Ain Bus Station Guide
Al Ain Central Bus Station is the city’s main hub for both local and long-distance bus travel.
For Dubai:
E201 → Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
For Abu Dhabi:
X90 → Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
For local attractions:
900 → Al Ain Mall, Al Jimi Mall and Al Ain Zoo
960 → Al Mutaredh, Al Towayya, Al Ain Oasis and Al Ain Museum
950 → Al Maqam and university area
991 → Al Markhaniya and Falaj Hazza
970 → Al Sarooj and Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club
For local travel, keep a topped-up Hafilat Card ready.
For intercity travel, arrive early, check the current timetable and confirm your fare and boarding bay before departure.
With local routes, major intercity connections, air-conditioned waiting areas, passenger information, taxis and accessibility facilities, Al Ain Bus Station remains the main starting point for public transport journeys within Al Ain and beyond.