Embarking on a journey from the cultural hub of Sharjah to the picturesque emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is an adventure filled with vivid landscapes, architectural marvels, and captivating cultural experiences. This journey not only offers a unique insight into the diverse lifestyle of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) but also presents an opportunity to witness its rich history and vibrant modernity.
The city of Sharjah, often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of the UAE”, is renowned for its museums, traditional souks, and historic sites. It beautifully preserves the essence of Arab heritage and Islamic culture. Notably, the Sharjah Art Museum and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization are must-visit attractions. Moreover, the city’s waterfront, marked by the iconic Eye of the Emirates Wheel, offers stunning views and leisure activities.
On the other end of your bus journey lies Ras Al Khaimah, known for its pristine beaches, terracotta desert, rugged mountains, and lush greenery. This northernmost emirate of the UAE serves as a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Ras Al Khaimah’s top attractions include the Jebel Jais mountain, the highest peak in the UAE, offering adrenaline-pumping activities like the world’s longest zipline. Meanwhile, historical sites such as Dhayah Fort and the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah provide glimpses into the region’s fascinating past.
Traveling between these two emirates via bus is a convenient, economical, and environmentally friendly mode of transport. The well-established public transportation system in the UAE ensures a comfortable journey, with buses running on routes 115 and 116. These buses shuttle between various stations in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, making it easy for travelers to reach their destinations.
In terms of distance, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are approximately 85.4 km apart via road. The estimated duration of the bus journey is around 1 hour and 47 minutes, making it a relatively short yet enriching travel experience.
Bus Route
Embarking on a journey from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah can be an adventure in itself, especially when you opt to travel by bus. The journey is handled by two main bus routes, numbers 115 and 116. These buses form the lifeline for those seeking public transport for this intercity commute, making regular trips between the two Emirates.
Bus Numbers 115 and 116
Bus numbers 115 and 116 are the primary means of public transport between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. These buses are operated by the RAK Transport Authority (RAKTA), offering a comfortable and reliable service. The entire journey, under normal traffic conditions, takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. They shuttle back and forth throughout the day, ensuring that travelers can find a convenient time to make their journey.
Bus Stations in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah
The starting point for your journey might be one of the several bus stations in Sharjah. Depending on your location within the city, you could begin your journey from Sharjah Central Bus Station or other smaller stations scattered throughout the city. Similarly, the arrival point in Ras Al Khaimah could be the Ras Al Khaimah Bus Station or another stop depending on your final destination in the city.
It’s essential to check with the local authorities or online platforms for the exact departure and arrival stations for bus numbers 115 and 116, as these can occasionally change due to road works or other factors. This will ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, allowing you to plan your trip effectively.
Distance and Time Duration
One of the key factors that travelers consider when planning their journey is the distance they need to cover and the time it requires. Understanding these factors not only helps in better time management but also contributes to setting realistic expectations for the journey. Here, we’ll delve into the specifics of the distance and time duration for the bus journey from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah.
Distance Between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah
The geographical distance between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah covers approximately 61.7 kilometers, which translates into a road distance of about 83 kilometers via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road/E311. This route is generally considered the fastest way to travel between the two Emirates by bus, offering a smooth and direct path and minimizing any potential traffic disruptions.
Estimated Time
The journey’s duration is subject to a multitude of factors such as traffic conditions, time of travel, and the specific bus route taken. However, on average, the bus journey from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah takes approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes. The first bus departs at 8:00 a.m., the second at 7:30 p.m., and the last one leaves at 11:00 p.m.
Given the estimated time duration and the bus schedule, travelers can plan their day effectively, ensuring they have ample time to explore both Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. Knowing the time duration also allows passengers to plan ahead for any necessary breaks, meals, or other activities during their journey.
Bus Timings and Schedule
Understanding the bus schedule is essential for a smooth and hassle-free journey from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah. By having a clear idea of when buses depart and arrive, you can plan your day accordingly, ensuring that you maximize your time spent exploring rather than waiting at bus stops. Let’s delve into the specifics of the bus timings so you can prepare for your trip.
One of the main factors to consider when planning your travel is the timing of the buses. The bus schedule varies throughout the day. Between 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM, buses run every 60 minutes. As the day progresses, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the frequency increases with buses leaving every 45 minutes. In the evening, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the interval extends back to every 60 minutes. This specific pattern offers passengers flexibility, allowing them to choose a departure time that best fits their schedule.
Planning Your Travel
When planning your journey, it’s important to be strategic about the timing. Depending on your schedule, you might prefer to catch a bus early in the morning to make the most of the day in Ras Al Khaimah. However, if you’re not an early riser, there’s no need to worry – the high frequency of buses during the day means you can still enjoy a full day of exploration.
A good rule of thumb is to aim for a bus that leaves a little earlier than necessary. This provides a buffer in case of any unexpected delays or last-minute changes. Remember, the journey can take up to 1 hour and 47 minutes, so plan your departure and arrival times accordingly.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider the time you’ll spend at the bus stations. Both Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah have several amenities around their bus stations, providing an opportunity for a quick bite or a coffee before or after your journey.
Fare and Ticket Information
One of the key aspects to consider when planning any trip is the cost, and traveling from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah via bus is no exception. As per our resources, the bus service between these two Emirates is known to be one of the most affordable means of intercity commute. However, the exact fare can change subject to fluctuations in fuel prices or changes in government policy, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information before setting off on your journey.
So, how do you go about purchasing your tickets? Well, there are a few ways to do this. You could buy them at the bus station in Sharjah before you board, but if you prefer to plan ahead, there’s also an online option available. Thanks to the advancements in technology, digital ticketing has been made possible, offering an easy and convenient solution for travelers.
Online Ticket Purchase
To book your tickets online, you can visit rakta.gov.ae, and select ‘services’ from the top menu. Then select ‘public transport’, followed by ‘intercity bus’. The website will then provide you with all the options for intercity travel, including the bus routes from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah. You can complete the payment using a debit or credit card, ensuring a secure transaction process.
It’s worth noting that this method requires you to have access to the Internet and a suitable device to make the booking. Another advantage of digital ticketing is that it reduces the risk of losing your ticket as it is stored electronically. Plus, it’s a more eco-friendly option!
Regardless of whether you choose to purchase your ticket at the station or online, do remember to keep your ticket safe throughout the journey. It not only serves as proof of your fare payment but may also be required for any fare disputes or refund claims.
What to Expect During Journey
You may wonder, what can I look forward to during the bus ride from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah? The journey is an experience in itself with plenty to see and enjoy. From comfort to amenities, and from scenic views to cultural hotspots, let’s delve into what you can expect during your travel.
Comfort and Amenities
One of the primary concerns for any traveler is the level of comfort they can expect during their journey. Rest assured, the buses on routes 115 and 116 between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are designed for long-distance travel. They are fully air-conditioned and equipped with special ramps and facilities for individuals with disabilities or special needs, ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers.
Views Along the Way
The journey from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s also about the scenic beauty that unfolds along the way. As the bus moves further away from the bustling city of Sharjah, you’ll notice the urban landscape gradually gives way to stretches of serene desert terrain and rugged mountain ranges. This change in scenery can be quite captivating, offering a glimpse of the UAE’s natural beauty.
Tips
While the bus service ensures a comfortable experience, there are a few things you can do yourself to enhance your journey. Firstly, consider carrying light snacks and water for the road. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, so having refreshments handy can keep you hydrated and energized. Secondly, don’t forget your headphones. Whether you want to catch up on your favorite music, or podcasts, or simply block out any noise, headphones can be a great travel companion. Lastly, as the buses are fully air-conditioned, it might get a bit chilly, so carrying a light sweater or scarf can be helpful.
Sightseeing En Route
Your travel from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah will take you through several interesting spots. For instance, if you’re taking the 115 bus, your route will include stops at popular tourist destinations like Dreamland Aquapark and Ice Land Water Park. So, keep your eyes peeled for these attractions. You might even decide to make a pitstop on your way!
Explore Ras Al Khaimah
As your bus pulls into the final stop of your journey, you find yourself in the captivating Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Noted for its diverse landscape, from the rugged Hajar Mountains and rolling sand dunes to the pristine beaches stretching over 64 kilometers, Ras Al Khaimah is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Many Dubai locals consider Ras Al Khaimah their perfect escape from the city. And it’s not just about the beach life here. The mighty Hajar Mountains form a stunning backdrop and offer a wealth of active pursuits. Jebel Jais, the tallest peak in the UAE, has become a major hub for adventure seekers in recent years. Whether you’re up for an adrenaline-pumping zipline ride down the slopes or fancy some mountain climbing, Jebel Jais won’t disappoint.
Beyond the natural allure, Ras Al Khaimah’s rich history beckons. Archeological excavations reveal that this region has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium BCE. The Ras Al Khaimah National Museum provides an excellent window into this long-reaching history. For a further taste of Emirati life before the mid-20th-century oil boom, be sure to visit Al Khams village and the nearby Dhayah Fort, along with the atmospheric Jazirat al-Hamra area.
For those who simply want to relax, Ras Al Khaimah’s extensive coastline is dotted with luxury resorts offering private patches of golden sand. Both guests and non-guests can avail themselves of numerous amenities, including sun loungers, cafés and restaurants on the sand, freshwater showers, and more. Water sports activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, jet-skiing, and windsurfing are also available at most resorts.
Conclusion
Traveling from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah by bus is a convenient and affordable way to explore these two fascinating Emirates. The journey offers an opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery of the UAE’s landscapes, all while benefiting from the comfort and amenities provided by the public bus system. The bus routes 115 and 116 are your chariots for this adventure, shuttling between the two Emirates with commendable regularity. The buses are fully air-conditioned and equipped with special ramps and facilities for People of Determination, ensuring that every passenger is catered to. Recall that the journey covers a distance of around 116 km, and typically takes one and a half hours, depending on the traffic conditions. The fare for this trip is quite economical at Dhs 6, and you can pay using cash or a Sayer smart card which can be purchased on board.
Travel Tips
- Plan your journey ahead of time, keeping in mind the bus schedules, to ensure you make the most out of your day.
- Keep some cash handy for the bus fare, or consider getting a Sayer smart card for added convenience.
- Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection, as the climate can be quite hot.
- Last but not least, immerse yourself in the experience! Take in the sights, chat with locals, and make memories along the way.
Travel is about the journey just as much as it is about the destination. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah, a journey that promises to be nothing short of wonderful.