Sharjah Public Transportation: Getting Around

Apart from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Sharjah stands as another vibrant gem in the United Arab Emirates, boasting its own unique charm and allure. Known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor, this Emirate is not only a treasure trove of history and tradition but also a hub of modern development. One of the key aspects that contribute to its dynamism is the efficient and well-structured Sharjah public transportation system.

Navigating through Sharjah has never been easier, thanks to a well-connected network of buses, taxis, and more, designed to make commuting seamless for both residents and visitors alike. Together, let’s take a look at Sharjah’s public transportation system and discover the various options available for getting around this captivating Emirate with ease and convenience. Whether you wish to explore its historic landmarks or embrace its contemporary wonders, Sharjah’s public transportation promises an enriching journey to remember. Read on.

Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, welcomes hundreds of tourists eager to explore its rich heritage and family-friendly attractions. To make commuting convenient and efficient, Sharjah offers an integrated public transport system, mainly comprising of the Mowasalat Buses by SRTA.

Getting Around Sharjah

When it comes to getting around Sharjah, the Emirate offers a reliable and efficient public transportation system to cater to its residents and tourists alike.

Sharjah Transport operates a fleet of public buses, with seven local routes and three express routes, ensuring seamless connectivity across the city.

Additionally, for those looking to travel to and from Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai provides express commuter bus services, making inter-city travel a breeze.

Alternatively, licensed taxi services, including Sharjah, Emirates, Citi, Union, and Advantage, offer a convenient option for travelers seeking door-to-door transportation.

Recognizable by their reflective green plates, these taxis are easy to spot even during the night.

The taxi fares start at AED 3, with an additional AED 1 charged for every 650 meters traveled.

It’s worth noting that there is a surcharge of AED 20 when crossing into Dubai, which is a small price to pay for the convenience and comfort of exploring two Emirates in one journey.

With an array of transportation choices available, navigating Sharjah has never been more hassle-free and enjoyable.

Mowasalat Bus Routes

Mowasalat Transport Services, managed by Sharjah RTA, operates several bus routes that serve as a lifeline for daily commuters. The buses are equipped with Sayer and Mowasalat cards for seamless cashless payments. Let’s explore some of the key Mowasalat bus routes in Sharjah:

Route 1: Rolla to Sahara Centre, covering destinations like Rolla, Jubail, and King Faisal Street.
Route E1: Al Jubail Terminal to Sharjah Aquarium, passing through Al Khan Street.
Route F1 and F2: Internal routes within Al Saja’a area.
Route F7: Al Rolla Terminal to Al Jubail Terminal.
Route 3: Al Rolla Terminal to Mowaileh Terminal, covering major parts of Sharjah.
Route 8: Al Rolla Terminal to Sahara Center Terminal, passing through Al Khan Street and Al Nahda Park.
Route 9: Al Rolla Terminal to Sahara Center Terminal, covering Al Taawun Street and Sharjah Expo Centre.
Route 14: Al Sharq Terminal to Sharjah International Airport, passing through Al Arouba Street.
Route 14X: Rolla Terminal to Sharjah International Airport, covering Muwaliah Terminal.
Route 15: Rolla district to Sharjah International Airport, passing through University City.
Route 77: Muwailah to Sajaa Sharjah, covering Emirates Road and Al Saja’a Terminal.
Route 88: Al Rolla Terminal to Sharjah Airport Terminal, passing through Abu Tina.
Route 88X: Rolla Terminal to Al Saja’a Terminal, covering Sharjah International Airport and Emirates Identity Authority.
Route 99: Jubail Terminal to Sharjah International Airport Terminal, passing through Dhaid Road.

Mowasalat Sayer Card

The Mowasalat Sayer Card is an electronic payment system for the buses in Sharjah, providing cashless convenience to commuters. The card can be purchased from buses and Mowasalat bus terminals, making it easy to top-up or renew. Additionally, there’s a Monthly Subscription Card with benefits and rewards, available for AED 225 per month.

Bus Fares and Timings

Getting around Sharjah using public transport is made convenient with Mowasalat’s well-planned bus schedules. However, it’s essential to note that bus timings vary for different routes and days. Below are the typical bus times:

Saturday to Thursday:

6:20 AM | 6:30 AM | 9:20 AM | 10:20 AM | 3:52 PM | 4:35 PM | 8:00 PM | 8:15 PM

Friday:

7:00 AM | 3:00 PM | 4:35 PM | 8:00 PM

RIHLATI SMS Service for Mowasalat

Mowasalat offers the RIHLATI SMS service, which allows passengers to check bus timings for routes that are subject to change. Using this service, travelers can receive Mowasalat bus timings through SMS, eliminating the need to wait at the bus stop.

How to Use RIHLATI SMS Service

Using RIHLATI is easy, follow these steps to receive the information via SMS:

Send Bus Stop Number to 2272 to receive the arrival time for the next Mowasalat bus.
For more specific information about a particular bus route, send Bus Stop Number <space> Route number to 2272.
For information on both the route and the arrival time of the bus, send Bus Stop Number <space> Route <space> Time to 2272.
To get a list of routes along with their arrival times, send Bus Stop Number <space> Time to 2272.

* Each SMS request incurs a charge of AED 1, and the timings are sent in a 24-hour format.

Mowasalat Ticket Fare for Public Transport Sharjah

The fare for using Sharjah’s public transport system varies depending on the routes and payment methods. Here are the maximum fare rates for different routes:

– Route 1: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route E1: AED 2 | AED 1.5 via Sayer card

– Route F1 and F2: AED 2 | AED 1.5 via Sayer card

– Route F7: AED 2 | AED 1.5 via Sayer card

– Route 3: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 8: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 9: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 14: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 14x: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 15: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 77: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 88: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

– Route 99: AED 8 | AED 6 via Sayer card

How to Pay for Public Transport in Sharjah

Paying for your Mowasalat bus fare is easy, as there are various payment methods available. You can opt to pay in cash, in which case the standard fare will be charged. Alternatively, you may use Sayer cards, which offer discounted ticket prices, making it a cost-effective and convenient option for frequent travelers.

Taxi Services

For those seeking taxi services, the SRTA app offers various options, including Normal Taxi, Ladies Taxi, Family Taxis, and Special Needs Taxi services. Additionally, other ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber are also available for easy bookings and rides.

Tips When Commuting in Sharjah

Plan Ahead: Before starting your journey, check the Mowasalat bus timings for your route using the RIHLATI SMS service or online resources. This will help you avoid unnecessary waiting and ensure you reach your destination on time.
Use Sayer Cards: Opt for a Sayer card for a more convenient and cost-effective way to pay for your bus fares. Sayer cards offer discounted rates and save you the hassle of handling cash during your commute.
Know Your Bus Routes: Familiarize yourself with the different bus routes available in Sharjah. Understanding the routes and schedules will enable you to select the most efficient option for your destination.
Be Punctual: Sharjah’s public buses operate on a strict schedule. Ensure you arrive at the bus stop a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to avoid missing the bus.
Stay Hydrated: Sharjah’s weather can get hot, especially during the summer months. Carry a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated during your commute.
Respect Local Customs: Sharjah is known for its conservative values and Islamic traditions. Dress modestly and behave respectfully while using public transport.
Be Mindful of Rush Hours: Try to avoid commuting during rush hours, especially if you’re traveling to or from work. The morning and evening rush hours can be quite busy and may lead to longer travel times.
Secure Your Belongings: While using public transportation, keep a close eye on your belongings. Ensure your bags, wallets, and electronic devices are secure to prevent theft or loss.
Be Patient: Bus routes in Sharjah may experience slight delays due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances. Practice patience during your commute and understand that occasional delays are normal.
Know the Taxi Fare: If you’re using a taxi, be aware of the fare structure. Taxis have a flag fall and charge additional fees for crossing into Dubai. Make sure you have the correct change or use a ride-hailing app for a more transparent fare system.

By following these practical tips, you can make your daily commute or exploration of Sharjah’s attractions more enjoyable and stress-free. Embrace the convenience of the city’s public transportation system and immerse yourself in the rich culture and experiences that Sharjah has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How reliable is Sharjah’s public transportation system?

Sharjah’s public transportation system is generally considered reliable. The buses operated by Mowasalat adhere to strict schedules and provide frequent services on most routes. However, occasional delays may occur due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.

2. What is the cost of using public transportation in Sharjah?

The cost of using public transportation in Sharjah varies depending on the route and payment method. The fares can range from AED 2 to AED 8 for different routes. Using a Sayer card can provide discounted rates, making it a more cost-effective option for regular commuters.

3. Are there air-conditioned buses available in Sharjah?

Yes, all buses operated by Sharjah Transport and Mowasalat are air-conditioned, providing passengers with a comfortable and pleasant commuting experience, especially during the hot summer months.

4. Can I travel from Sharjah to Dubai using public transportation?

Yes, you can travel from Sharjah to Dubai using public transportation. Mowasalat operates several routes that connect Sharjah with different parts of Dubai. Additionally, Dubai’s RTA also offers express bus services between the two Emirates.

5. How do I check the bus timings and schedules in Sharjah?

You can check the bus timings and schedules in Sharjah using the RIHLATI SMS service or through online resources. By sending a simple SMS to 2272, you can receive the arrival times for the next Mowasalat bus or obtain information on specific routes.

6. Are taxis readily available in Sharjah?

Yes, taxis are readily available in Sharjah, and there are several licensed taxi companies operating in the city. Look for taxis with reflective green number plates, and you can easily hail one from the road or find them at designated taxi stands.

7. What is the best time to commute to avoid rush hours?

To avoid rush hours, it’s best to plan your commute outside of the morning and evening peak times. Generally, avoiding travel between 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM can help you experience a smoother journey with less traffic.

8. Can I use my Sayer card for both buses and taxis in Sharjah?

As of this writing, the Sayer card could be used only for public buses in Sharjah and not for taxis. However, it’s always best to check for any updates or changes to the payment system for taxis in Sharjah.

Summary

In conclusion, Sharjah shines as a vibrant gem in the United Arab Emirates, offering a delightful blend of heritage and modernity.

Its rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders draw visitors from all corners of the globe.

Yet, beyond its historical charm lies a city committed to progress and development.

One of the pillars supporting this dynamic city is its efficient and well-structured public transportation system.

Sharjah’s public transportation network, consisting of buses, taxis, and more, is a testament to the Emirate’s commitment to providing convenient and seamless commuting experiences.

Whether you are a resident or a visitor, navigating through Sharjah is made effortless, allowing you to explore the city’s historic landmarks and embrace its contemporary marvels with ease.