Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus Timing (Route 117): Timetable, Fare, and Stops (2026)

Bus 117 is the main inter-emirate service between Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Sharjah’s Al Jubail Bus Station. It typically starts early morning and runs until late at night, with departures around every 30–60 minutes depending on the time of day. The standard ticket price is AED 30.

Do this next

1. Go to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station a little early (15–20 minutes) and look for the intercity bay for Sharjah.
2. Confirm “117 to Al Jubail” on the front sign or with the driver before boarding.
3. Keep a small time buffer for traffic, especially around evening peak hours.

Today’s overview: first bus, last bus, and frequency

This section matters because most people miss the bus due to small timing assumptions (especially late evening). Knowing the first/last service and the typical interval helps you plan without stress.

When to use this: Use this if you’re deciding when to leave home, booking a meeting in Sharjah, or returning late at night.

Examples (Formal / Warm / Heartfelt):

• Formal: “I will take the early morning 117 and reach Al Jubail before office hours.”
• Warm: “I’ll catch the next bus and message you when I reach Al Jubail.”
• Heartfelt: “Don’t worry, I’ll take the late bus safely and update you when I arrive.”

Typical operating window (often shown on schedules):

• First departures: around 6:00–6:30 AM
• Last departure: around 11:15 PM to 12:00 AM (midnight)
• Frequency: usually 30–60 minutes, tighter in daytime and wider late evening

Abu Dhabi to Sharjah Bus 117 timetable

Timetables matter because “every 30–60 minutes” can still mean long waits at night. A simple reference table helps you choose a reliable departure time.

When to use this: Use this when you need an approximate arrival time in Sharjah (work, family visit, or a late return).

Examples (Formal / Warm / Heartfelt):

• Formal: “If I board at 10:30 AM, I should arrive around early afternoon.”
• Warm: “I’ll take the 6:30 PM one so we can meet for dinner.”
• Heartfelt: “I’ll avoid the very last bus so I’m not rushing.”

Below is a commonly shared reference timetable for departures from Abu Dhabi (arrival times can shift with traffic):

More Related content: Dubai Tram Map guide | Dubai Metro Help

For official service updates or changes, travelers can also check the Sharjah Roads & Transport Authority website.

Route, stations, and what to expect on the way

This matters because intercity services can have a few pickup points, and people sometimes confuse them with Dubai routes. Knowing the start and end stations keeps your trip simple.

When to use this: Use this if you’re choosing where to board, meeting someone at the terminal, or planning a transfer after arrival.

Examples (Formal / Warm / Heartfelt):

• Formal: “Please meet me at Al Jubail Bus Station; I’ll arrive around 6:25 PM.”
• Warm: “I’ll call you when I’m close to the terminal.”
• Heartfelt: “I’ll take the direct bus so I don’t get stuck changing routes.”

Core route:

• From: Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Main Bus Station)
• To: Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station (Terminal)

Typical intermediate pickup points may be used on some runs (these can change):

• Shahama area stops (Abu Dhabi side)
• Ittihad Road / Ansar Mall area (Sharjah side)

If your goal is Dubai, this bus is not the best fit. It’s designed for Sharjah–Abu Dhabi travel, not Dubai connections.

Fare and payment

This matters because payment rules are where most first-time riders get delayed. A quick check before you travel saves time at the station.

When to use this: Use this if you’re budgeting, traveling with family, or riding late when top-up options may be limited.

Examples (Formal / Warm / Heartfelt):

• Formal: “The one-way fare is AED 30; I will keep my travel card ready.”
• Warm: “Ticket is affordable, so we can travel without stress.”
• Heartfelt: “Don’t worry about the cost—I’ll be fine with the standard fare.”

Typical fare information:

• Ticket price: AED 30 for Abu Dhabi ↔ Sharjah inter-emirate service
• Where to buy / pay: usually at the station counters or per the system in use at the terminal
• Best practice: keep a backup option (top-up or cash) because payment rules can vary by terminal and updates

Travel time and distance

This matters because “2.5 hours” can become longer during rush hours. Planning with a buffer helps you arrive calm, not rushed.

When to use this: Use this when you have a time-sensitive appointment, a flight connection, or a family visit you don’t want to keep waiting.

Examples (Formal / Warm / Heartfelt):

• Formal: “I will allocate 3 hours door-to-door for a morning appointment.”
• Warm: “Let’s plan to meet after I’ve settled at the terminal.”
• Heartfelt: “I’ll leave earlier so I’m not stressed and can travel safely.”

Typical trip details:

• Distance: about 164 km
• Journey time: around 2.5 to 2 hours 50 minutes, depending on traffic and stops

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling in the evening, aim for a departure that gets you into Sharjah before peak congestion. A small time buffer often saves more frustration than any “faster” plan.

Common questions before boarding

This section matters because small practical details (what to carry, when to arrive, what to confirm) make the trip smoother than memorizing every time.

When to use this: Use this if it’s your first time, you’re traveling with luggage, or you’re heading out late.

Examples (Formal / Warm / Heartfelt):

• Formal: “I’ll arrive 20 minutes early and confirm the route number.”
• Warm: “I’ll text you once I’m seated and the bus is moving.”
• Heartfelt: “I’ll keep my phone charged and share my ETA when I’m close.”

Quick checklist:

• Arrive 15–20 minutes early for peace of mind
• Confirm 117 and Al Jubail on the bus signage
• Keep water, a charged phone, and a light layer (AC can feel cold)

FAQs

How long is the bus from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah?

The trip usually takes about 2.5 hours, and sometimes closer to 2 hours 50 minutes when traffic is heavier. Even if your table time looks exact, add a buffer during evening peak hours. Your actual arrival can shift based on road conditions.

How much is the Abu Dhabi to Sharjah bus fare?

The inter-emirate fare is commonly listed as AED 30 for this service. Payment method and purchase location can vary by station policy and updates, so it’s smart to arrive with a backup option and confirm at the counter or with station staff.

Where does Bus 117 start and end?

Bus 117 typically starts from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Main Bus Station) and ends at Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station (Terminal). If you’re meeting someone, agreeing on the terminal name in advance avoids confusion, especially on busy days.

Does the schedule change on weekends or holidays?

Inter-emirate services often run daily, but exact frequency can shift by day, season, and operational updates. If you’re traveling on a public holiday, check the official timetable page before leaving so you don’t wait longer than expected.

Last updated: 10 Feb 2026
Reviewed by: UAEWOW Editorial Team