C1 Bus Route Dubai 2026: Timings, Stops, Route Map & C01 Bus Schedule Today
Navigating Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai is easier than ever—especially with the highly reliable C1 bus route (also known as C01 bus Dubai). Running 24/7, this essential public transport line connects Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 (DXB) with Al Satwa Bus Station, passing through key hubs like Deira and Bur Dubai.
Whether you’re searching for C1 bus timing today, checking C01 bus timings from Satwa, or planning a budget-friendly airport transfer, this route remains one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to travel across Dubai.
For daily commuters, the C1 bus Dubai timetable offers frequent departures and seamless connectivity. For tourists, it’s the cheapest way to travel from DXB to the city—no surge pricing, no hassle.
In this complete 2026 guide, you’ll find everything you need:
- Latest C1 bus timings & live schedule
- Full C01 bus route map & stops
- Fare details using Nol card
- Travel tips for smoother journeys
If you’re searching for “c1 bus timing now,” “c1 bus route dubai map,” or “is the c1 bus running today”, this guide has you covered.
Why the C01 Bus Matters in Dubai’s Transport Network

The C01 route is more than just a bus line; it’s a bridge between the bustling airport and one of Dubai’s liveliest districts, Al Satwa. Unlike some city routes that shut down at night, the C01 runs non-stop, day and night, ensuring that passengers arriving on late-night or early-morning flights still have a dependable way to reach the city.
- Start Point: Dubai International Airport Terminal 3
- End Point: Al Satwa Bus Station
- Duration: Around 55–60 minutes, depending on traffic
- Distance: Approximately 12 km
This makes the C01 bus Dubai a vital part of both the tourism ecosystem (airport access) and the daily life of residents working in areas like Bur Dubai, Al Karama, and Deira.
Full C01 Bus Route & Key Stops
The C01 bus connects Airport Terminal 3 with Satwa, passing through commercial, residential, and cultural hubs. Below is the full list of C01 bus stops in Dubai:
From Airport Terminal 3 to Satwa
- Airport Terminal 3
- Airport Terminal 1
- Cargo Village
- Flame Intersection
- DNATA
- Clock Tower Roundabout (Deira landmark)
- Maktoum Road
- Etisalat Head Office
- Union Metro Station
- Al Nakhal
- Burj Nahar Intersection
- Naif Intersection
- Gold Souq Bus Station (near Dubai’s famous Gold Souk)
- Raffa
- Rolla
- Sharaf DG Metro Station
- Standard Chartered Bank (Mankhool)
- Sheikh Rashid Road Intersection
- Hudheiba Turnoff
- Hana Center
- Satwa, Masjid
- Satwa, Clinic
- Satwa Bus Station
From Satwa to Airport Terminal 3
The return route includes the same major stops, ensuring smooth connectivity in both directions.
C01 Bus Timings in Dubai (2025 Schedule)
The C01 bus timings are designed for maximum accessibility, with frequent departures every day of the week.
| Day | Operating Hours | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday – Thursday | 03:27 – 02:57 | Every 8–12 minutes |
| Friday | 03:27 – 02:57 | Every 9–16 minutes |
| Saturday | 03:27 – 02:57 | Every 7–12 minutes |
During peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM), expect buses every 10–15 minutes, while at quieter times, intervals stretch to 20 minutes.
👉 Pro tip: Use the RTA Dubai app for real-time tracking, service alerts, and bus crowding updates.
C01 Bus Fare & Nol Card Payment
Like all RTA buses, the C01 bus Dubai operates on a zone-based fare system. Payment is made exclusively through a Nol card—cash payments are not accepted.
- Fare Range: AED 3 – AED 7.5 (depending on zones crossed)
- Typical Airport–Satwa fare: AED 5
- Nol Card Options:
- Red Ticket – ideal for tourists/occasional riders
- Silver Card – best for regular commuters
- Gold Card – provides access to premium metro cabins (not applicable on buses, but works system-wide)
You can recharge your Nol card at metro stations, bus stations, supermarkets, and via the RTA app.
Travel Experience on the C01 Route
At Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Clearly marked RTA bus stops at Terminal 1 and 3
- Wheelchair-accessible buses
- Luggage-friendly spaces for airport travelers
At Al Satwa Bus Station
- Connections to other RTA bus routes toward Deira, Jumeirah, and Bur Dubai
- Nearby shops, eateries, and taxis/ride-hailing services
- Lively community hub popular with expats and workers
The journey itself passes through historic Deira landmarks, commercial zones in Bur Dubai, and finally into the vibrant Satwa district—a cultural melting pot known for its food, shopping, and affordable accommodations.
Travel Tips for the C01 Bus Dubai
- Plan Ahead – Check timings on the RTA app to avoid waiting.
- Avoid Peak Hours – If you want a quieter ride, travel outside rush hours.
- Keep Your Nol Card Ready – Boarding is quicker and smoother when your card is topped up.
- Respect Public Transport Etiquette – Eating, drinking, and smoking are not permitted on buses.
- Arrive Early – Being 5 minutes ahead ensures you don’t miss your bus.
FAQs
1. What is the C1 bus route in Dubai?
The C1 bus route Dubai (C01 bus) runs between Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 and Al Satwa Bus Station, covering major stops across Deira and Bur Dubai.
2. What are the C1 bus timings today?
The C1 bus operates 24 hours daily, with buses running every 10–20 minutes depending on peak and off-peak hours. You can check C1 live bus times via RTA apps.
3. What is the C1 bus timing from Terminal 3?
C1 bus timing from Terminal 3 starts early morning and runs continuously throughout the day and night, making it ideal for airport transfers.
4. What is the C01 bus timing from Satwa?
The C01 bus timings from Satwa are also 24/7, with frequent departures toward the airport and central Dubai areas.
5. How much is the fare for C1 bus Dubai?
The fare typically starts from AED 3–7.5, depending on zones, payable via Nol card.
6. Where can I find the C1 bus route map?
You can view the C1 bus route Dubai map on official RTA platforms or transport apps for real-time tracking and stop-by-stop navigation.
7. Is the C1 bus running today?
Yes, the C1 bus runs every day, including weekends and public holidays, with uninterrupted 24-hour service.
8. Does the C1 bus go to Terminal 1?
The route mainly serves Terminal 3, but nearby stops provide access to Terminal 1 via short transfers.
9. How often does the C1 bus run?
The C1 bus schedule is frequent, typically every 10–15 minutes during peak hours and 15–20 minutes off-peak.
10. Can I check C1 bus timing near me?
Yes, use RTA apps or Google Maps to check C1 near me, live arrivals, and real-time updates.
11. Is the C01 bus in Dubai a 24-hour service?
Yes, the C01 bus operates around the clock, making it one of the most reliable routes for late-night and early-morning travelers.
12. How long does the C01 bus take from the airport to Satwa?
The trip usually takes 55–60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
13. Can I pay cash for the C01 bus fare?
No, RTA buses only accept Nol cards. Cash payments are not allowed.
14. Does the C01 bus stop at Union Metro Station?
Yes, it makes a stop at Union Metro Station, offering connections to both the Red Line and Green Line of the Dubai Metro.
15. Is there a free shuttle from Dubai Airport to Satwa?
No, but the C01 bus is the cheapest and most direct RTA option, with fares starting from just AED 5.
Conclusion
The C1 bus route Dubai (C01 bus) continues to stand out as one of the most reliable and budget-friendly public transport options in the city. Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority, this 24-hour service seamlessly connects Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 with Al Satwa Bus Station, making it an essential route for both residents and visitors.
Whether you’re checking C1 bus timings today, looking for C01 bus timings from Satwa, or searching for a dependable airport transfer, the C1 delivers consistent performance with frequent schedules, affordable fares, and easy Nol card access.
For commuters, it’s a practical daily solution across key districts like Deira and Bur Dubai. For travelers, it’s a smart alternative to taxis, offering convenience without high costs.
If you’re planning your journey and need accurate details like the C1 bus timetable, route map, or live bus times, this route ensures you stay connected across Dubai efficiently in 2026 and beyond.
