Dubai is a city built on movement — from the abra boats gliding across the Creek to the futuristic driverless metro lines. At the center of this dynamic transport network sits Union Square Bus Station, one of the most important public transit hubs in the UAE.

Located in Deira, Dubai’s historic heart, Union Square Bus Station connects residents, tourists, and commuters to destinations across the emirate — and even to other emirates like Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, mastering this station unlocks seamless travel across Dubai’s vast and efficient RTA public transport network.

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What is Union Square Bus Station?

Union Square Bus Station, often referred to as Union Metro Station Bus Terminal, is an integrated transport hub that links Dubai’s bus routes, metro lines, and even water transport options. Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), it embodies the city’s vision of sustainable, accessible, and affordable mobility.

It is directly connected to the Union Metro Station, which serves both the Green Line and Red Line. This makes it an ideal transfer point for passengers moving between historic Deira, Dubai Creek, and modern districts like Dubai Marina, DIFC, and Jumeirah.

Location: In the Heart of Deira

The station’s location in Deira makes it more than just a transport hub — it’s a cultural gateway. Passengers stepping out of the terminal are within walking distance of some of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods and busiest commercial areas:

Al Rigga – Known for its buzzing nightlife, mid-range hotels, and street food scene.
Al Seef – A waterfront promenade blending traditional Emirati heritage with modern cafés and boutique shops.
Naif – Famous for its traditional souqs, textiles, and authentic street markets.
Al Buteen – A residential-commercial district rich in history and local charm.
Dubai Creek – Connecting travelers to abra rides, Bastakiya Quarter, and the modern Dubai Creek developments.

For international visitors, Union Square is just 15–20 minutes by metro from Dubai International Airport, making it one of the most convenient entry points into the city.

Facilities at Union Square Bus Station

Dubai is known for world-class infrastructure, and Union Square Bus Station reflects that standard. Passengers can expect:

Covered waiting areas – Sheltered from Dubai’s sun and heat.
Ticket vending machines & nol card top-ups – Cashless convenience with the city’s smart payment system.
Multilingual customer service counters – Staff assist with trip planning and tourist information.
Digital displays with real-time updates – Arrival and departure times in Arabic and English.
Restrooms, ATMs, and snack kiosks – Essential amenities within the station.
Direct metro access – Via escalators and walkways to Union Metro Station.

This blend of efficiency and comfort makes traveling from Union Square smooth, even during peak hours.

Bus Routes from Union Square

Union Square Bus Station operates over 25 routes, connecting Dubai’s neighborhoods and extending into other emirates.

Local Routes within Dubai

Route 5 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11–15 – Cover central and northern Deira, business districts, and shopping hubs.
Route C07 – Direct to Dubai Mall Bus Station, ideal for tourists.
Route C08 – Straight to Dubai International Airport, Terminal 3.
Route C10 – Connects to Al Nahda Metro Station, serving residential commuters.

Feeder Routes (Neighborhood Connectors)

F01 – Links areas not directly served by metro lines.
F63 – Serves Al Ras Metro Bus Stop, improving coverage of historic districts.

Express & Intercity Routes

E303 – Union Square to Sharjah (Al Jubail Bus Station).
E400 – Union Square to Ajman Bus Station.
E700 – Union Square to Fujairah, passing through Dhaid and Masafi (approx. 2h 15m).
Ras Al Khaimah service – Direct buses to RAK via the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority.

These intercity buses make Union Square one of the most important gateways from Dubai to the northern Emirates.

Timings & Frequency

Peak hours (7–9 AM & 5–7 PM): Buses arrive every 8–12 minutes.
Off-peak hours: Every 20–30 minutes depending on route.
Intercity routes (E303, E400, E700): Every 30–90 minutes, aligned with business hours.
Night services: Limited, with most routes ending around midnight and restarting around 5 AM.

👉 Passengers can check live bus arrivals by sending ‘D [stop ID]’ to 5223, or use the S’hail mobile app for real-time updates and trip planning.

Alternatives to Buses at Union Square

While buses are the core, Union Square also offers multi-modal transport options:

Dubai Metro – Red & Green Lines interchange here, connecting to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and DXB Airport.
Taxis & Ride-hailing (Careem/Uber) – For door-to-door convenience.
Abras & Water Taxis – From nearby Dubai Creek, offering cultural charm alongside practical connectivity.

Planning Your Trip from Union Square

To travel smartly:

Use the RTA S’hail App for real-time schedules, fares, and route maps.
Buy a nol card – it works across buses, metro, trams, and water transport.
Avoid peak hours if possible for a more relaxed commute.
For tourists, combine your trip with nearby attractions in Deira, Al Seef, or Dubai Creek.

Why Union Square Bus Station Matters

Union Square is more than a transport node — it’s a cultural crossroad. From here, you can explore traditional souqs, hop on a metro to the futuristic Downtown skyline, or catch an intercity bus to the UAE’s northern Emirates.

It represents Dubai’s ambition: a city that blends heritage and modernity, connecting people through sustainable public transport.

FAQs about Union Square Bus Station, Dubai

1. Where is Union Square Bus Station located?
It’s in Deira, near Dubai Creek, directly linked to Union Metro Station (Green & Red Line interchange).

2. How do I get from Union Square to Dubai Airport?
Take Route C08 directly to Terminal 3, or hop on the metro Green/Red Line for a 15–20 min ride.

3. Can I travel to Sharjah or Ajman from Union Square?
Yes, E303 goes to Sharjah (Al Jubail) and E400 goes to Ajman.

4. What is the bus fare system in Dubai?
It’s zone-based, using the nol card. Fares range from AED 3–15 depending on distance and zones.

5. Is Union Square safe at night?
Yes, the station is monitored by CCTV and RTA security, but as with all busy areas, keep your belongings secure.

6. Which app is best for Dubai bus timings?
The RTA S’hail app is the official and most reliable option.

With this guide, travelers using Union Square Bus Station can move confidently across Dubai and beyond. For more transport insights, cultural guides, and local expertise, visit TheDubaiWeb.com — your trusted companion for navigating life in Dubai.

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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.