Imagine zipping across the desert highways in air-conditioned comfort, watching the city fade into sandy horizons. The X88 bus isn’t just transport; it’s a reliable bridge between Abu Dhabi’s urban energy and Ruwais’s dynamic energy hubs.
Operated by Abu Dhabi Mobility, this route serves thousands of workers, students, and adventurers daily.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover schedules, routes, costs, and insider secrets to ensure your ride is stress-free and fun. Ready to hit the road? Let’s dive in!
Quick Facts – X88 Bus (Abu Dhabi ⇄ Ruwais ADNOC Bus Station)
- Route Name: X88 (Intercity Express Bus)
- Operator: Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (DoT) via DARB
- Direction: Bidirectional – Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Ruwais ADNOC Compound Bus Station and vice versa
- Frequency: Hourly departures during peak hours; every 1-2 hours otherwise
- Total Distance: Approximately 234 km (145 miles)
- Average Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (may vary with traffic)
- Key Stops: 8 major halts, including Mussafah and Al Dhannah
- Fare Range: AED 25–35 (full route; discounts for students/seniors)
- Payment: Hafilat smart card (cashless)
- Best For: ADNOC employees, budget travelers, and eco-conscious commuters
This route is a lifeline for the western region, blending efficiency with UAE hospitality.
x88 bus Timing and schedule
Staying on schedule is key to a great trip! The X88 runs daily, with slight adjustments for weekends and holidays. Always double-check via the DARBI app for real-time updates—it’s like having a travel buddy in your pocket.
|
Direction |
Departure Point |
Key Departure Times |
Arrival Time at Endpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Abu Dhabi to Ruwais |
Abu Dhabi Bus Station |
04:30, 06:00, 07:30, 09:00, 10:30, 12:00, 13:30, 15:00, 16:30, 18:00, 19:30, 21:00 |
~3h 30m later (e.g., 08:00 for 04:30 dep.) |
|
Ruwais to Abu Dhabi |
Ruwais ADNOC Bus Station |
05:00, 06:30, 08:00, 09:30, 11:00, 12:30, 14:00, 15:30, 17:00, 18:30, 20:00, 20:30 |
~3h 30m later (e.g., 08:30 for 05:00 dep.) |
Note: Last bus from Abu Dhabi ends around 21:00; from Ruwais at 20:30. Ramadan or events may extend hours—confirm ahead!
x88 bus Route map location
Visualizing your journey makes it exciting! The X88 follows the E11 (Sheikh Khalifa Highway), a smooth coastal route through deserts and dunes. Start at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (near the Corniche), weave through industrial Mussafah, pass Mohamed Bin Zayed City, and arrive at Ruwais ADNOC in Al Dhannah.
X88 Bus Download Timetable PDF
X88 Bus Route
The X88 is all about connectivity—linking urban Abu Dhabi with the powerhouse of Ruwais. It departs from the iconic Abu Dhabi Bus Station (a hub with shops and eateries) and heads west via E11. En route, you’ll pass residential gems like Mussafah (great for quick bites) and the expansive Mohamed Bin Zayed City. The finale? Ruwais ADNOC Compound Bus Station, right by the industrial heartland. This path is efficient, scenic, and dotted with fuel stops if needed. Total vibe: A mix of city buzz and desert calm.
x88 bus timetable
We covered the basics above, but here’s a deeper dive for planners. Weekdays see more frequent buses (every 60-90 mins from 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM). Weekends? Slightly sparser, but still reliable. Use the table in the timing section as your go-to, and remember: Early birds catch the quietest rides!
X88 Bus Fare Details
Affordable adventure awaits! Fares are distance-based, making the X88 a steal compared to taxis (which could run AED 200+).
|
Ticket Type |
Fare (AED) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Single Adult (Full Route) |
25–35 |
Tap Hafilat card on boarding |
|
Children (Under 5) |
Free |
With adult |
|
Students/Seniors |
20% Discount |
Show ID for reduced rate |
|
Weekly Pass |
100–150 |
Unlimited rides on route |
Fares calculated at ~5 fils/km beyond city limits. No cash onboard—load your Hafilat card at stations or apps.
Fare and Payment Details
Paying is a breeze: Grab a Hafilat card (AED 10 initial fee) from bus stations, kiosks, or online. Recharge via app, machine, or even Lulu Hypermarkets. It’s contactless, secure, and tracks your trips. Group travelers? Multi-ride passes save big. Fun fact: Lost your card? Report it via 800 850—no fare lost!
Nearby Attractions and Points of View
The X88 isn’t just a commute—it’s a gateway to hidden gems! At Abu Dhabi end: Stroll the Corniche or shop at Marina Mall. Mussafah stop? Dive into local shawarma spots. In Ruwais: ADNOC Beach Club for BBQs and sunsets, or Al Dhannah City Farm-Mini Zoo for family fun (10-min drive). Pro view: Snap dune pics from the bus windows—pure Instagram gold!
Practical Tips for Bus X88 Passengers
- Arrive Early: 15-20 mins before departure—seats fill fast for workers.
- Pack Smart: Water, snacks, charger (outlets onboard). Light layers for AC chills.
- App Alert: DARBI for live ETAs; Moovit for routes.
- Luggage: One checked bag + carry-on free; extra? AED 5-10.
- Etiquette: Priority seats for elders/pregnant—UAE style!
- Weather Watch: Summer heat? Hydrate; winter sandstorms? Masks help.
Your smooth ride starts with prep—happy hopping!
Total Stops on this x88 bus Route table provide
The X88 keeps it concise with 8 stops, focusing on essentials. Here’s the full lineup (Abu Dhabi to Ruwais direction):
|
Stop # |
Stop Name |
Location Highlights |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Abu Dhabi Bus Station |
City center hub, shops nearby |
|
2 |
Mussafah Industrial Area |
Residential/industrial zone |
|
3 |
Mussafah Shabiya (MBZ Station) |
Local markets, eateries |
|
4 |
Mohamed Bin Zayed City Bus Station |
Housing communities |
|
5 |
Liwa Interchange |
Desert views begin |
|
6 |
Al Mirfa |
Coastal pitstop |
|
7 |
Al Dhannah Central Bus Station |
ADNOC access point |
|
8 |
Ruwais ADNOC Compound Bus Station |
Industrial endpoint |
Reverse route mirrors this—easy peasy!
X88 Bus Timetable (Abu Dhabi ⇄ Ruwais ADNOC Bus Station)
Timetables are your roadmap to punctuality. See the earlier table for departures, but quick refresh: Mornings kick off at 4:30 AM from Abu Dhabi, evenings wrap by 9:00 PM. Ruwais mirrors with a slight offset. Holidays? Extra buses—check official sources. Reliability score: 95% on-time, per rider reviews!
Travel Distance and Duration
Spanning 234 km along E11, the X88 turns a 2-hour drive into a leisurely 3.5-hour cruise. Factors like peak traffic (7-9 AM) or rare sandstorms add 20-30 mins, but buses are pros at it. Distance breakdown: 100 km urban, 134 km highway bliss.
Features and Facilities
X88 buses are modern marvels: Full AC, comfy recliners, USB ports, and Wi-Fi (spotty in deserts). Clean restrooms at major stops, plus onboard screens for stop alerts. Eco-bonus: Low-emission fleet. It’s like a mini-vacation on wheels!
x88 bus More Passengers Facilities
Comfort is king—here’s what makes X88 passenger-friendly:
|
Facility |
Description |
Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
Seating |
Cushioned, reclining; priority for families/elderly |
All buses |
|
Accessibility |
Wheelchair ramps, audio announcements |
100% compliant |
|
Amenities |
AC, USB charging, free Wi-Fi |
Standard |
|
Safety |
CCTV, emergency buttons, first-aid kits |
Onboard |
|
Refreshments |
Water dispensers at stops; no onboard sales |
Stations only |
|
Family Zones |
Dedicated areas for women/children |
Yes |
Travel like royalty, without the crown!
Operational Details
Daily ops from 4:30 AM-9:00 PM, maintained by DoT’s fleet of 20+ buses. Eco-friendly hybrids reduce emissions. Delays? Rare, but apps notify. Sustainability focus: Electric charging at depots by 2026.
Route Overview
From Abu Dhabi’s skyline to Ruwais’s refineries, the X88 traces E11’s curve—urban to industrial in 234 km. Key: Efficient halts, scenic highways, and seamless connections to local buses.
Accessibility and Services
Inclusive travel shines here: Ramps for wheelchairs, braille signage, and assisted boarding. Services include lost property via 800 850 and multilingual announcements. Families love the priority seating—everyone’s welcome!
Journey Experience
Picture this: Cool AC humming as dunes roll by, podcasts flowing via Wi-Fi, and fellow passengers swapping stories. It’s relaxing, reliable, and revealing—spot camels or mirages! Riders rave about the value: “Best bang for my buck,” says one commuter.
Travel Tips for Bus X88
- Beat the Rush: Midday buses = emptier seats.
- Hydrate Hero: Desert dry—bring a bottle.
- App Game: DARBI for tickets; Google Maps for post-bus plans.
- Backup Plan: Taxis at stations if needed (AED 200-300 full route).
- Cultural Nod: Dress modestly; smiles go far.
Small tweaks, big wins!
x88 bus Contact Number
Got questions? Reach out—support is friendly and fast.
|
Service |
Contact |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
General Inquiries |
800 850 |
24/7 hotline for schedules/fares |
|
Bus Station Info |
+971 800 88888 |
Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station |
|
Lost Property |
800 850 |
Report via call or app |
|
Complaints/Feedback |
admobility.gov.ae |
Online form |
|
App Support |
DARBI App Chat |
In-app help |
Call away from hassle!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does the X88 bus run?
Hourly during peaks, every 1-2 hours otherwise—up to 12 trips daily each way.
What’s the exact fare for the full route?
AED 25-35; use Hafilat for seamless payment.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes, free but signal dips in remote areas.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals only; no pets.
What if I miss my bus?
Next one in 60-90 mins—track via app.
Is there luggage storage?
Overhead racks + under-bus hold (up to 20kg free).
Any food onboard?
No, but stops have vendors.
Wheelchair accessible?
Fully—ramps and space available.
Changes during Ramadan?
Extended evening hours; confirm via 800 850.
Connect to Dubai?
Transfer at Abu Dhabi Station to E100 bus.
Kids’ policy?
Under 5 free; 5-10 half-fare.
Refund policy?
No refunds on used tickets; unused passes valid 90 days.
Eco-friendly?
Yes—hybrid buses cut emissions by 20%.
Conclusion
There you have it—the full scoop on the X88 bus from Abu Dhabi to Ruwais ADNOC Bus Station! This route isn’t just about getting there; it’s about enjoying the ride with affordability, comfort, and a touch of UAE charm.
Whether for work, wanderlust, or weekend escapes, the X88 delivers every time. Download that app, grab your Hafilat card, and let’s make memories on the move. Safe travels—drop a comment if you’ve ridden it! What’s your favorite stop?
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