The RTA launched a ferry that runs between Dubai and Sharjah in 2019 to enable a new route for commuters to bypass the crippling traffic jams that often happen on the roads. The Dubai Sharjah Ferry is the first ferry service between 2 Emirates.
The route was closed during the covid crisis and resumed in August 2023.
The 2 stations involved are at Aquarium Marine Station in Sharjah and Al Ghubaiba Marine Station in Dubai and the ferry runs a number of journeys at different times from each station depending on the day of the week.
There are air-conditioned areas to wait in Sharjah and you can link to the Dubai Metro at Al Ghubaiba station on arrival in Dubai.
What times does the ferry run?
Check out the current running times of the Sharjah Dubai ferry on the timings page.
How much are the tickets?
Ticket prices are 15 dirhams for silver class one way and 25 dirhams for gold class. It is free for children under 5 and people of determination.
Where can I wait for the Ferry?
There are air conditioned ‘pods’ where you can wait for the ferry at the Sharjah terminal.
How long does the journey take?
The journey takes around 35 minutes. It can be a bit choppy going in and out of Sharjah harbour and so passengers are asked to stay inside the cabin.
How many people can the ferry carry?
The ferry can take up to 84 people in silver class and 14 people in gold class plus 2 spaces for wheelchair users.
There are parking facilities for 300 cars in Sharjah and also a free shuttle bus service which will expand around the Emirate in the future to enable a smooth transition to the ferry terminal.
Where can I buy tickets?
There are ticket offices at both the Sharjah and Dubai ferry terminals and in addition there are ticket machines at Aquarium Marine Station in Sharjah.
You can also use your Nol card to pay for the journey – just make sure that your Nol card is topped up with sufficient credit which you can do at the marine transport station – and then tap in on the machine which is on the ferry itself.
Tickets can be bought online at the RTA website.
How does it all work?
Check out this video from Gulf News which shows the journey to and from Dubai and Sharjah on the ferry: