Public transport in Dubai is more than just a way to get around — it’s the lifeline that connects business hubs, residential communities, and cultural landmarks across the city. Among the RTA’s most practical feeder routes is the F04 bus Dubai, a service that links GGICO Metro Station in Al Garhoud with Sabkha in Deira, passing through some of Dubai’s busiest districts like Al Karama, BurJuman, and Union Metro Station.

Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to the souks of Deira, or navigating between metro lines, the F04 bus offers one of the most affordable and reliable options in Dubai’s transport network. This guide covers everything you need to know in 2025: routes, timings, stops, fares, and insider travel tips.

Table of Contents

F04 Bus Overview

The F04 is a circular feeder route designed to connect metro users with key neighborhoods in Deira, Al Karama, and Garhoud. Operated by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), it’s a budget-friendly alternative to taxis while offering reliable schedules and comfortable facilities.

Attribute	Details
Route	GGICO Metro Station ↔ Burj Nahar Intersection ↔ Sabkha ↔ GGICO Metro
Operating Hours	05:20 AM – 12:07 AM (daily)
Frequency	Every 15–20 minutes (peak), 20–30 minutes (off-peak)
Journey Duration	30–40 minutes
Stops	25 total
Fare	From AED 3 (depends on zones)
Operator	RTA (Roads and Transport Authority)

F04 Bus Timings in 2025

The F04 bus operates daily, with slight variations on weekends:

Monday to Friday: 05:45 AM – 11:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 06:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

⏱️ During peak hours, buses run every 15–20 minutes, while off-peak frequency stretches to 20–30 minutes.

For real-time updates, use the RTA S’hail app or check live timings at bus stops.

F04 Bus Route & Key Stops

The F04 covers 25 stops across central Dubai, serving commuters, students, and shoppers heading to Deira and Karama.

Major Stops Along the Route:

GGICO Metro Station (Garhoud)
DNATA Head Office
Clock Tower Roundabout (Deira landmark)
Maktoum Road
Etisalat Head Office
Union Metro Station (Red & Green Line interchange)
Al Nakhal
Burj Nahar Intersection
Naif Intersection
Sabkha Turnoff (near Deira Souks & Abra stations)
Bustan Rotana Hotel (Garhoud)
Indian High School, Al Garhoud

The circular route means buses start and end at GGICO Metro, looping through Burj Nahar and Sabkha, making it ideal for both short intra-city trips and connections to Dubai Metro.

F04 Bus Fare & Payment

Travel on the F04 is cashless — all payments are made via the Nol Card. Fares depend on how many zones you cross:

Travel Zones	Fare (AED)	Notes
1 Zone	3	Typical for most F04 trips
2 Zones	5	If crossing beyond Garhoud–Deira
3+ Zones	7.50	Extended journeys
Children under 5	Free	No Nol required
People of Determination	Free	With valid permit
Gold Class	6–15	Premium seating option

👉 Tip: Buy a Silver Nol Card for daily commutes or a Red Ticket if you’re a tourist making limited trips.

Features of the F04 Bus

Dubai’s public buses are designed for comfort, making even short trips enjoyable. On the F04, you’ll find:

Air-conditioned interiors — essential for Dubai’s climate.
Free high-speed Wi-Fi onboard.
Digital displays showing upcoming stops.
Priority seating for women, seniors, and People of Determination.
Wheelchair access with ramps at major stops.
Well-maintained interiors for a smooth ride.

Attractions & Landmarks Along the Route

One of the reasons many choose the F04 is its strategic route passing by iconic landmarks:

Clock Tower Roundabout – a symbol of old Dubai.
Union Metro Station – interchange hub between Red & Green lines.
Naif & Sabkha – home to traditional souks and vibrant markets.
Al Karama – known for affordable shopping and eateries.
Garhoud Hotels – including Bustan Rotana and Holiday Inn.

This makes the F04 especially popular among tourists exploring Deira and residents commuting for work or study.

Practical Tips for First-Time Riders

If you’re new to Dubai buses, keep these in mind:

Always carry a Nol Card with sufficient balance. Cash is not accepted.
Avoid peak hours (7:30–9:30 AM, 5–7 PM) to skip heavy crowds.
Use the S’hail app for real-time route tracking and schedule changes.
Board from front doors, and tap out when exiting.
Plan connections — Union Metro and GGICO stations give access to Dubai Metro Red & Green lines.

RTA Customer Care (for F04 Queries)

Call Center: 800 90 90 (toll-free in UAE)
For overseas callers: +971 4 605 1414
Email: ask@rta.ae
Service Centers: Al Barsha, Deira, Al Kifaf, Al Twar, Umm Ramool
Mobile App: RTA Smart App (iOS/Android)

FAQs About F04 Bus Dubai

1. How often does the F04 bus run?
Every 15–20 minutes during peak hours, and 20–30 minutes during off-peak times.

2. How many stops does the F04 bus cover?
The F04 has 25 stops between GGICO Metro and Sabkha, including Union Metro and Clock Tower Roundabout.

3. What is the fare for the F04 bus?
Fares start at AED 3 for a one-zone journey, increasing to AED 7.50 if crossing multiple zones. Nol Card required.

4. Is the F04 bus good for tourists?
Yes — it passes by Deira Souks, Naif, and Union Metro, making it a budget-friendly way to explore old Dubai.

5. Does the F04 bus operate late at night?
Yes, the last bus usually runs until 12:00 midnight on weekends and 11:30 PM on weekdays.

Conclusion

The F04 bus in Dubai is more than just a feeder line — it’s a vital commuter link that connects GGICO Metro, Al Karama, and Deira’s bustling Sabkha district. With affordable fares, frequent schedules, and convenient stops near some of Dubai’s busiest areas, it’s an essential part of the city’s public transport ecosystem.

For the latest transport guides, route updates, and Dubai lifestyle insights, keep following TheDubaiWeb.com — your trusted source for navigating the UAE with confidence.

Author
Recent Posts

Emila

Emila is a professional content writer and UAE resident for the past 6 years. Passionate about travel and local exploration, she specializes in creating in-depth guides on UAE destinations, the Dubai Metro, public buses, and practical tips for residents and tourists alike. Through her writing on thedubaiweb.com, Emila helps readers navigate the UAE with ease and confidence.