The RAKTA bus runs from Dubai’s Union Bus Station to Ras Al Khaimah daily from 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM, with return buses from RAK running 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM. The fare is AED 27 one-way, and the journey takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours depending on which departure you catch.
Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah Full Schedule: Dubai and RAK Directions
| Direction | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai (Union Station) → RAK | 7:30 AM | 11:00 PM | Every 30–60 min | 1.5–2 hours |
| RAK → Dubai (Union Station) | 5:30 AM | 9:00 PM | Every 30–60 min | 1.5–2 hours |
Only the 5:30 AM, 6:15 AM, and 7:00 AM departures from RAK run direct. Every later bus in both directions routes via Sharjah and Ajman, which is where the extra time in the 1.5–2 hour range comes from.
A weekend Dubai Mall–RAK route reportedly existed at one point — some sources still list it, a more recent source says it’s discontinued. Confirm directly with RAKTA or the Sayr app before planning around it.
Which Departures Are Actually Direct
Only the three earliest morning buses from RAK — 5:30 AM, 6:15 AM, and 7:00 AM — run direct to Dubai. Every later departure routes via Sharjah and Ajman, adding real time to the journey. If a fast, direct trip matters more than a specific departure time, plan around one of these three.
A weekend Dubai Mall–RAK shuttle service reportedly existed at one point — some sources still list it, while a more recent source states it’s no longer operating. Confirm directly with RAKTA or the Sayr app before relying on this specific route.
Getting From RAK Bus Station to the Airport
RAK International Airport has its own dedicated city bus connection — the Green Line, running from Al Nakheel (RAK’s main bus station) directly to the airport. This is genuinely useful if you’re flying out of RAK specifically, rather than connecting through Dubai’s own airports.
A separate RAK Shuttle Service runs the opposite direction — from Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3) directly into Ras Al Khaimah, with drop-offs at major hotels including Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort, The Cove Rotana, and Rixos Bab Al Bahr. This costs around AED 30 and includes free Wi-Fi, making it a genuine alternative to the standard RAKTA bus specifically for airport arrivals.
Pro tip: Call RAKTA directly at 800-1700 for live timing confirmation before a weekend trip — Friday and Saturday evening returns from RAK fill up fast, and arriving at the station 30 minutes early or booking through the Sayr app avoids getting bumped to a later departure.
Other Ways to Make the Trip
A taxi costs roughly AED 300 or more depending on pickup point, taking a little over an hour — RTA taxis, Al Arabia Taxi, and ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber all serve this route, with online services typically pricier than street taxis.
Driving yourself covers roughly 130km via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), on well-maintained roads that don’t require an SUV or 4×4 even if Jebel Jais is your final destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is the last bus from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah?
The last bus departs Union Bus Station at 11:00 PM daily. From RAK back to Dubai, the last bus runs at 9:00 PM.
How much is the Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah bus fare?
AED 27 one-way on the standard RAKTA intercity service, payable in cash or via Nol card.
Is there a direct bus from Dubai to RAK Airport specifically?
Not directly from Dubai’s Union Bus Station. Once in Ras Al Khaimah, the Green Line city bus connects Al Nakheel bus station to RAK International Airport. Travelers arriving via Dubai International Airport can instead use the separate RAK Shuttle Service running directly from DXB Terminals 1 and 3.
How long does the Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah bus take?
Roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the departure. Only the three earliest morning buses from RAK run direct; all others route via Sharjah and Ajman, adding time to the journey.
Last verified: September 2026
Reviewed by: UAE Content Team
Source: Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA)
