The Union to Sharjah bus (Route E303) is the most popular public transport link connecting Deira, Dubai to Al Jubail, Sharjah. Operated by Dubai’s RTA, this intercity bus departs from Union Square Bus Station, costs AED 12 per one-way trip, and runs daily from 05:00 AM until Midnight. The journey typically takes 50–90 minutes depending on traffic.
Do this next:
- Check Balance: Ensure your Nol Card has at least AED 15 credit.
- Download App: Get the S’hail or RTA Dubai app for live tracking.
- Locate Stop: Go to Union Square Bus Station 5 (near Union Metro Exit 2).
E303 Bus Route & Stops (Dubai to Sharjah)
The E303 does not go non-stop; it services key residential and commercial areas along Ittihad Road and King Faisal Street.
Step 1: Boarding in Dubai
The bus starts at the Union Square Bus Station (stops 5 or 6). It makes brief stops at these Deira locations before hitting the highway:
- Union Square Bus Station (Origin)
- Salah Al Din Metro Bus Stop
- Reef Mall
- The Center
- Abu Hail Clinic
- Mahlab School (Last stop in Dubai)
Step 2: Crossing into Sharjah
Once the bus crosses the Dubai-Sharjah border via Ittihad Road (E11), it stops at these popular landmarks:
- Sharjah, Ithihad Road, Ansar Mall
- Sharjah, Ithihad Road, Al Safeer Mall
Step 3: Al Wahda & King Faisal Street
The route continues through the heart of Sharjah city:
- Al Wahda Rd, Subway 1
- Al Wahda Rd, Al Wahda Center 2
- Al Wahda Road, City Center Sharjah
- King Faisal Rd, Jumbo (Sony)
- King Faisal Rd, ADNOC Petrol Station
- King Faisal Rd, Old Gold Souq
Step 4: Final Arrival
- Al Jubail Bus Station: This is the final terminal. From here, you can grab a taxi or walk to the Sharjah Souq and Corniche.
Union to Sharjah Bus Timings (Today’s Schedule)
The E303 bus service is frequent, but traffic on the Dubai-Sharjah border heavily influences arrival times. Below is the standard operating schedule for 2026.
| Feature | Weekdays (Mon–Thu) | Weekends (Fri–Sun) |
| First Bus | 05:00 AM | 05:00 AM (Fri: 05:30) |
| Last Bus | 00:00 (Midnight) | 00:25 AM (Next Day) |
| Frequency | Every 10–15 mins | Every 15–20 mins |
| Travel Time | ~50 Minutes | ~60–90 Minutes (Peak) |
Important Note on Peak Hours:
Traffic from Dubai to Sharjah is heaviest between 05:00 PM and 08:30 PM. During these times, the E303 journey can take up to 1.5 hours. Plan accordingly.
Ticket Price & Payment Method
Using the bus is significantly cheaper than a taxi (which can cost AED 60–80). However, the payment system is strictly digital.
The Fare
- Standard Trip: AED 12 (approx. $3.27).
- Payment Mode: Nol Card only.
How to Pay?
Method 1: Tap On/Tap Off
You must tag your Nol card on the validator when you enter the bus AND when you exit. If you forget to tap out, the system may charge you the maximum route fare.
Method 2: Nol Card Types Accepted
- Silver Card: Most common for commuters.
- Gold Card: Valid, but there is no Gold Class cabin on standard buses; you will be charged the standard rate.
- Personal (Blue) Card: Accepted.
- Red Ticket: Not accepted for Intercity buses usually; stick to the Silver card.
Pro Tip:
“Always sit on the left side of the bus if traveling from Dubai to Sharjah in the afternoon. The sun sets on the left, but the AC ducts on RTA Volvo buses are often stronger on that side, keeping you cooler during the gridlock on Ittihad Road.”
Bus Facilities & Specs
The E303 uses modern Volvo or Mercedes coaches designed for intercity travel.
- Air Conditioning: High-capacity climate control.
- Accessibility: Dedicated spaces for People of Determination.
- Seating: High-back comfortable seats (Priority seating for ladies and children in the front rows).
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available on many (but not all) intercity buses. Look for the “Free Wi-Fi” sticker.
- Storage: Overhead racks for small bags; large luggage can sometimes be placed in the under-bus compartment (ask the driver).
Final Thoughts
Taking the Union to Sharjah bus is the most budget-friendly way to commute between the emirates. While the E303 route is reliable, the traffic on E11 is the main variable. If you need to be in Sharjah at a specific time during the evening rush, try to leave Union Station before 4:00 PM.
Always keep your Nol card topped up—drivers strictly do not accept cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timing of the Union to Sharjah bus today?
The E303 bus runs from 05:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Midnight) daily. During peak hours (morning and evening), buses depart every 10 to 15 minutes.
How much is the bus fare from Union to Sharjah?
The fare is AED 12 per trip. You must pay using a Silver, Gold, or Personal Nol Card. Cash is not accepted on board.
Which bus number goes from Union to Sharjah?
Bus number E303 connects Union Square Bus Station in Dubai to Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah.
Does the Dubai to Sharjah bus run on Fridays?
Yes, the E303 operates on Fridays, usually starting slightly later at 05:30 AM and running past midnight.
Where can I recharge my Nol card at Union?
You can recharge at the ticket vending machines inside the Union Metro Station or at the counter in the Union Bus Station waiting hall.
Last Updated: October 2026
Reviewed by: Dubaihowto UAE Transport Specialist
Author: The DubaiHowto Editorial Team
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Last reviewed: February 2026. Sources: Official UAE portals and service providers