X23 Bus Route: The X23 bus is one of Dubai’s key Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) public bus services, linking the Al Ghubaiba (Gold Souq) Bus Station in Bur Dubai with International City, a stunning residential and commercial zone highlighting the diverse cultural clusters.
If you’re UAE residents, international travellers, and transport enthusiasts planning to travel via this bus, this comprehensive article will articulate essential information on the X23 bus route, X23 bus timings, X23 bus timetable, X23 bus to International City timetable, X23 bus map, Dubai X23 bus route, and live scheduling tips.
What is the X23 Bus in Dubai?
The X23 is an express bus service operated by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), which runs between the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station 29 (often referred to as Gold Souq Station) and the International City Bus Station.
Moreover, it is an essential component of Dubai’s integrated transport network designed to deliver a comfortable, affordable alternative to taxis or ride-hailing, especially for longer cross-city routes.
This route serves a mix of:
- Historic and commercial areas like Bur Dubai
- Key transit interchanges (e.g., Oud Metha)
- Shopping areas (such as Wafi City)
- Residential clusters and markets
- International City neighbourhoods in the east of Dubai.
X23 Bus Route Dubai – Stops & Map Overview
The Dubai X23 bus route is prolonged approximately 25–27 kilometres long and encompasses about 20–25 stations. Discover the Dubai X13 Bus Route in detail.
These are some key stops included from Al Ghubaiba to International City:
| S.N. | Stops |
|---|---|
| 1 | Al Ghubaiba Bus Station |
| 2 | Raffa |
| 3 | Rolla |
| 4 | Sharaf DG Bus Stop |
| 5 | Four Points Sheraton |
| 6 | BurJuman Bus Stop (Metro interchange) |
| 7 | Oud Metha Bus Stop |
| 8 | Wafi City |
| 9 | Aden Street |
| 10 | Ras Al Khor Terminus |
| 11 | Used Car Exhibition |
| 12 | Vegetable Market |
| 13 | Manama Road |
| 14 | International City, Greece Cluster |
| 15 | International City, Civil Defence |
| 16 | International City, Trafalgar Tower |
| 17 | International City, Post Office / Final Terminus |
You can visualise this on the RTA X23 bus map via the S’hail or RTA Trip Planner apps, which show real-time bus status and estimated arrivals.
X23 Bus Timetable & Schedule
The X23 bus schedule runs throughout the day with frequent buses, making it suitable for regular commuters and travellers alike. Also, the timetabnle are categorized into significant parts: weekdays and weekends.
Operating Hours
Al Ghubaiba → International City
- First Bus: ~05:00 AM
- Last Bus: ~11:00 PM
- Journey Duration: ~45–75 minutes
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes throughout the day
International City → Al Ghubaiba
- First Bus: ~05:00 AM
- Last Bus: ~11:19 PM
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes
Services remain consistent 7 days a week, incorporating Fridays and weekends, with slight variations in first/last departure times depending on traffic and demand.
How to Ride the X23 Bus
Fare & Payment
- Fare: Around AED 3 to AED 7.5, depending on the zones you travel through (longer rides cost more).
- NOL Card Required: Tap on/off using your Nol card (silver, gold or personal). Cash is not accepted on RTA buses.
Tip: Keep a substantial balance on your Nol Card before boarding the bus for longer trips.
Tips for Passengers
- Arrive 5–10 minutes earlier on the bus before your bus arrives.
- Use the RTA S’hail app for live-tracking times.
- Major interchanges (like BurJuman and Oud Metha) link you to the metro network.
- For sightseeing or shopping days, plan your return; buses can be busy during peak hours.
Why Ride the X23 Bus?
The X23 route isn’t just for daily commutes; it is also great for visitors exploring Dubai:
- Affordable travel: Lower than taxi costs across the city.
- Scenic urban journey: Pass through historic Bur Dubai, then to vibrant International City.
- Convenient metro links: Easy transfers at major stations for broader travel.
- Accessible for tourists: Ideal for integrating into travel plans with stops near shopping, dining, and community zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the X23 bus route in Dubai?
The bus is Dubai’s public transport systemthat operates between the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and International City.
What are the X23 bus timings from Al Ghubaiba to International City?
The bus generally runs early at 05:00 AM and continues until late evening at 11:00 PM, with a frequency of every 15–20 minutes.
How long is a full X23 bus trip?
The bus generally takes approximately 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the traffic congestion and departure time.
Can I use the X23 bus to go to International City?
Yes. This is the primary direction of the route; stops within the International City include Greece, Civil Defence, Trafalgar Tower, and the Post Office Cluster.
Is there an X23 bus map available?
Absolutely, the RTA S’hail app and journey planner offer route maps, real-time tracking, and live timetables.
How much does the X23 bus cost?
The expected fare ranges from AED 3 to AED 7.50, depending on the distance covered across RTA zones.
Can tourists use the X23 bus?
Yes, the bus is user-friendly, air-conditioned, affordable, and easy to navigate for all commuters.
Last Verdict
The X23 bus route is an imperative part of Dubai’s public transport system for everyone who is enthuistic in affordable and efficient city travel.
Whether you’re commuting daily, exploring historic Bur Dubai, or reaching the diverse neighbourhoods of International City, it offers a reliable and cost-effective option with frequent services, better connections, and practical timing.