Dubai 88 Bus Route: Stops, Timings & Full Guide

Exploring Dubai’s Colorful Streets: The 88 Bus Route That Bridges Heritage and Innovation

Dubai is a place of contrasts, from vast skyscrapers to sunbaked deserts, and busy souks to shiny tech parks. In this exciting mix, the public bus offers a realistic way to experience it all. The 88 bus route takes you along the beach, past the Burj Al Arab, and connects the hectic Deira with the lively Dubai Internet City. Whether a commuter avoiding traffic or simply a visitor finding things to do that are a little cheaper, it is a scenic journey, reliable,   and a way to see everyday Dubai life. Timing can be everything in a city that always seems to be moving in some direction. Miss the bus and your plans can change, so understanding the schedule can turn a straightforward ride into a relied-on journey.

This article will break down the intricacies of the 88 Bus schedule, routes, times, stops, prices, and tips that will help make your journey as simple as possible. Whether this is a daily commute or one time ride on the weekend, this should help.

Highlights of Route 88

The 88 bus, operated by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), follows the route from Deira City Center Bus Station to Dubai Internet City Metro Bus Stop Seaside. The bus route travels approximately 30 kilometers along Jumeirah Beach Road and provides passengers with views of the Arabian Gulf along with Dubai landmarks. This bus service is crucial for employees traveling to IT offices, shoppers going to the malls, and tourists exploring the area, including Satwa and Umm Suqeim.

Generally speaking, trips take about 85 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, and include between 43 and 46 stops each way. The bus service runs daily and has minor variations on weekends, as it is also easily matched with metro routes for longer trips. The RTA’s S’hail app is excellent for tracking live locations and delays along the way.

Detailed Schedule and Timings

Timings vary by direction and day, with more frequent services during peak hours to handle commuter rushes. Buses run from early morning until late evening, but not 24/7—night owls might need alternatives like taxis.

From Deira City Center to Dubai Internet City

• Weekdays (Monday to Friday): First bus at 5:40 AM, last at 9:30 PM. Frequency every 15-30 minutes.
• Saturday: Starts at 6:00 AM, ends at 9:30 PM. Buses every 17-24 minutes.
• Sunday: 6:00 AM start, ends at 9:45 PM. Intervals of 15-30 minutes.

From Deira City Center to Dubai Internet City

• Weekdays (Monday to Friday): First at 5:40 AM, last at 9:25 PM. Every 15-30 minutes.
• Saturday: 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with gaps of 17-24 minutes.
• Sunday: 6:00 AM start, 9:45 PM end, every 15-30 minutes.

Frequencies can contract to 12-22 minutes in the peak times on weekdays. Always refer to the S’hail app for modifications because of events or roadworks, particularly in 2025, with continuous infrastructure adjustments.

Major Stops Along the Way

The 88 bus intersects with a combination of residential, commercial, and tourist areas, thus suitable for multiple purposes. Below is an overview of major stops in each direction.

• Deira City Center to Dubai Internet City (Notable Points)
• Deira City Center Bus Station (start point, close to shopping and metro)
• Karama, Dubai Municipality Centered Metro Bus Stop Landside
• Satwa Roundabout and Satwa Masjid
• Jumeira 3, Masjid
• Mercato Shopping Mall
• Wild Wadi
• Burj Al Arab Hotel
• Madinat Jumeira

• Dubai College
• Dubai Internet City Metro Bus Stop Seaside (finish point)
• Dubai Internet City to Deira City Center (Reverse Highlights)
• Dubai Internet City Seaside Metro Bus Stop
• Dubai Knowledge Village Conference Centre
• Villas Complex, Tecom
• Sufouh Road stops
• Umm Suqeim Park and Library
• Manara, Enoc
• Hilton Beach Club
• Dubai Zoo
• Satwa Post Office
• Al Jafiliya Landside Metro Bus Stop
• Deira City Center Bus Station

Full lists have up to 46 stops, with numerous mosques and community centers for ease. Pro tip: Get on early at terminals to secure a seat during peak hours.

Fares and Payment Options

The price for a full one-way ride on the 88 bus is AED 7.5, although the fare will automatically be less for shorter segments. Payment is done via an Nol card; cash onboard is not accepted. You can top up your Nol card at any metro station, RTA locations, or online with the Nol app. The minimum balance necessary to board is at least AED 7.5.

If you are planning to take the bus multiple times while in Dubai, check out the Nol monthly pass priced around AED 50 for unlimited short journeys. In 2025, the fares may change, so be sure to check the RTA website. Children under five ride for free, and students or seniors with a valid student/senior card receive a discount.

Onboard Features and Amenities

All RTA buses along this route have comfortable amenities you can expect when traveling in the heat of Dubai. Expect fully air-conditioned buses, soft leather seats, and free wi-fi to stay online. Screens will indicate upcoming stops, and there are special spots for women, families, and the disabled. Senior citizens and pregnant women will have reserved priority seats, and there’s space for luggage.

Buses are largely clean and on time, but rush hour is always packed. If you can, avoid trip times between the hours of 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM for quicker service.

Tips for a Smooth Ride on the 88 Bus

Plan to enhance your trip. Download the S’hail or Moovit app for live updates and maps. Arrive 5-10 minutes earlier at stops, especially at tourist hotspots near Burj Al Arab. Bring a refillable water bottle; it’s hot over here, and you will want to stay hydrated! If you need to change lines to the metro, be sure to check your connections at either ADCB station or at Dubai Internet City station. For lost and found or help, contact RTA at 800 90 90 or reach them by email at ask@rta.ae. Expect more green upgrades like additional electric buses along this route in 2025 to assist Dubai’s sustainability goals! For short legs, you can combine travel with cycling or walking for less-known treasures along the route.

Conclusion

The public transportation of the 88 bus schedule within the public transportation structure offers a working, scenic option and an efficient alternative where you are guaranteed daily enjoyable character. We have worked with this type of use from the first light of the morning until it is at night, as the 88 bus is likely to seamlessly accommodate diverse users with low expenses and heights to the views. Also, we have options, like applications, to track their arrival or just use your Nol for payment and boarding is second nature. Have this experience to become part of the pulse of the city traveling to work or exploring. You can check the RTA or applications for most recent changes. Good traveling, and for the adventure.