The RTA Bus 21B is a vital public transportation service in Dubai, operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This route connects Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in the historic Bur Dubai area to Al Quoz Industrial Area, making it an essential option for commuters, workers, and visitors traveling between central Dubai and the industrial zones.

Whether you’re heading to work in Al Quoz or exploring nearby attractions, the RTA Bus 21B offers affordable, reliable, and efficient travel. With frequent departures and connections to metro stations like BurJuman and Sharaf DG, it’s a popular choice for daily commuters.
RTA Bus 21B Timing and Schedule
The RTA Bus 21B operates daily with consistent schedules, starting early in the morning and running late into the night. Below is a detailed timetable based on standard operating hours. Note that actual times may vary due to traffic or updates, so check the RTA app or Wojhati for real-time information.
|
Day |
First Bus from Al Ghubaiba |
Last Bus from Al Ghubaiba |
Trip Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
05:00 AM |
00:30 AM |
~81 minutes |
|
Tuesday |
05:00 AM |
00:30 AM |
~81 minutes |
|
Wednesday |
05:00 AM |
00:30 AM |
~81 minutes |
|
Thursday |
05:00 AM |
00:30 AM |
~81 minutes |
|
Friday |
05:00 AM |
00:30 AM |
~81 minutes |
|
Saturday |
06:00 AM |
00:35 AM |
~81 minutes |
|
Sunday |
06:00 AM |
00:30 AM |
~81 minutes |
For detailed departure times from key stops like Ghubaiba Bus Station, Trade Center Interchange, and Oasis Center, refer to the official RTA timetable PDF, which lists specific slots such as 05:55, 06:05, and peak-hour frequencies. Peak periods often have buses every 10-15 minutes, while off-peak is every 20-30 minutes.
RTA Bus 21B Route Map Location
RTA Bus 21B Timing and Frequency
Frequency varies by time of day and weekday, with shorter intervals during rush hours. Here’s a breakdown:
|
Day |
Operating Hours |
Frequency (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
05:00 AM – 00:30 AM |
15-30 |
|
Tuesday |
05:00 AM – 00:30 AM |
15-30 |
|
Wednesday |
05:00 AM – 00:30 AM |
15-30 |
|
Thursday |
05:00 AM – 00:30 AM |
15-30 |
|
Friday |
05:00 AM – 00:30 AM |
15-30 |
|
Saturday |
06:00 AM – 00:35 AM |
20-30 |
|
Sunday |
06:00 AM – 00:30 AM |
20-30 |
During peak hours (e.g., 7 AM-9 AM and 5 PM-7 PM), expect buses every 15 minutes, dropping to 30 minutes late at night.
RTA Bus 21B from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
The RTA Bus 21B departs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station 25, a major hub near the Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi Historic District. This direction is ideal for those heading to Al Quoz for work or shopping. The first bus leaves at 05:00 AM on weekdays, with the last at 00:30 AM.
Key early departures include 05:55, 06:05, and 06:45, with frequencies increasing during morning rush. Connect easily to the Green Line Metro at Al Ghubaiba Station for extended travel.
RTA Bus 21B from Al Quoz
While the official 21B route is from Al Ghubaiba to Al Quoz, the return trip (Al Quoz to Al Ghubaiba) is designated as Route 21A. Departures from Al Quoz Bus Station 10 or Al Quoz Clinical Pathology Services start around 05:00 AM, with similar frequencies (15-30 minutes). The journey mirrors the 21B route in reverse, ending at Al Ghubaiba. Use the same timetable PDF for coordinated timings.
RTA Bus 21B Timetable PDF
Total Stops on This RTA Bus 21B Route
The RTA Bus 21B has 35 stops, providing comprehensive coverage from historic to industrial areas. Here’s the complete list:
|
Stop Number |
Stop Name |
|---|---|
|
1 |
Al Ghubaiba Bus Station 25 |
|
2 |
Raffa 1 |
|
3 |
Rolla |
|
4 |
Sharaf DG Metro Bus Stop 1-1 |
|
5 |
Four Point Sheraton Hotel 1 |
|
6 |
BurJuman Metro Bus Stop 2-2 |
|
7 |
Centre Point Shopping Centre 2 |
|
8 |
ADCB Metro Bus Stop Seaside |
|
9 |
Department of Health 1 |
|
10 |
Max Metro Bus Stop Seaside |
|
11 |
Trade Center Metro Bus Stop |
|
12 |
White Crown Tower |
|
13 |
Durrah Tower |
|
14 |
Emirates Tower Metro Bus Stop Seaside |
|
15 |
Rostamani Tower |
|
16 |
Al Quoz, Intersection |
|
17 |
Al Quoz, Housing 1 |
|
18 |
Al Quoz, Housing 2 |
|
19 |
Pepsi Cola Factory |
|
20 |
Al Quoz, BMW Showroom 1 |
|
21 |
Al Quoz, Cemetery |
|
22 |
Oasis Center 2 |
|
23 |
Al Quoz 4th Street |
|
24 |
Marine Center 1 |
|
25 |
Bosch Center 1 |
|
26 |
Al Quoz, Unimex 1 |
|
27 |
Al Quoz, Bin Hindi 2 |
|
28 |
Al Quoz, Yusuf Motors 2 |
|
29 |
Khaleej Times 1 |
|
30 |
Al Quoz, Latifa Bint Hamdan Street 1 |
|
31 |
Oasis Village 1 |
|
32 |
Al Quoz, Ast Company 1 |
|
33 |
Speedwell Decor 2 |
|
34 |
Telaa Tech Industrial 1 |
|
35 |
Al Quoz, Bus Station 10 |
RTA 21B Bus Nearby Attractions
The RTA Bus 21B passes near several popular attractions, blending Dubai’s historic charm with modern creativity. Here are some highlights:
- BurJuman Mall & Metro: Shopping and dining near Stop 6.
- Oasis Center: Retail and lifestyle hub at Stop 22.
- Alserkal Avenue: Art galleries and studios in Al Quoz.
- The Courtyard: Arts complex with cafés near Al Quoz stops.
- Cinema Akil: Independent cinema in Al Quoz.
- The Junction: Performing arts theatre nearby.
- The Flip Side: Vinyl store and cultural spot.
- Le Meridien & Hilton Hotels: Upscale stays along the route.
These spots make the RTA Bus 21B great for sightseeing.
Travel Tips for Passengers
To make your RTA Bus 21B journey smooth:
- Recharge your Nol card in advance; cash isn’t accepted.
- Plan for 80-90 minutes travel time and check real-time updates via the RTA app.
- Connect to metros at BurJuman or Sharaf DG for broader access.
- Carry water, especially in summer, and follow bus etiquette like yielding priority seats.
- Avoid peak hours if possible to skip crowds.
- Use WiFi at air-conditioned stops for navigation.
RTA Bus 21B More Passengers Facilities
RTA buses, including the 21B, offer modern amenities for comfort.
|
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Air Conditioning |
Fully AC buses for Dubai’s hot climate |
|
Wheelchair Accessibility |
Low-floor design and ramps |
|
Priority Seating |
For elderly, pregnant, and disabled |
|
CCTV Surveillance |
For safety |
|
Nol Card Payment |
Contactless payment system |
|
Bus Stops Amenities |
554 AC waiting areas with info screens |
|
Connectivity |
Links to metro and other bus routes |
RTA Bus 21B Contact Number
For inquiries, complaints, or lost items:
|
Contact Type |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Hotline |
800 9090 (toll-free) |
|
|
ask@rta.ae |
|
App/Website |
RTA Dubai App or rta.ae |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the route of RTA Bus 21B?
It runs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Al Quoz Bus Station with 35 stops.
What are the operating hours?
Daily from 05:00 AM to 00:30 AM (or 00:35 AM on Saturdays).
How frequent is the bus?
Every 15-30 minutes on weekdays, 20-30 on weekends.
What’s the fare?
AED 3 for a one-way trip within one zone using a Silver Nol card.
Does it connect to the metro?
Yes, at BurJuman, Sharaf DG, and others.
Is the bus wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with low-floor entry.
How long is the journey?
About 81 minutes.
Can I track the bus live?
Yes, via the RTA or Moovit app.
What if I lose something on the bus?
Contact RTA at 800 9090.
Are there any route changes?
Check RTA announcements for updates, as routes like 21 were split into 21A/21B.
Conclusion
The RTA Bus 21B is an efficient and affordable way to navigate Dubai, linking key areas from Al Ghubaiba to Al Quoz. With detailed timings, stops, and facilities outlined in this guide, you can travel confidently.
Always verify the latest info through official RTA channels for the best experience. Safe travels on the RTA Bus 21B!
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