Transportation Options from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah

Wednesday, 8 January 2025

One of the most fascinating aspects of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the diversity each emirate offers. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are bustling, cosmopolitan hubs, smaller emirates like Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) have their own charm, offering a mix of historic attractions and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a tourist eager to explore a quieter side of the UAE or a resident commuting for work, Ras Al Khaimah has a lot to offer. In recent years, transportation between the emirates has greatly improved, making travel between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah easier, faster, and more affordable.

Explore the various transportation options available for traveling between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, giving you a comprehensive guide to choosing the best mode of transport based on your needs and preferences.

Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah Bus Service
RAK Shuttle Bus Service For Airport
Al Hamra Bus Service
Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah by Taxi
Traveling from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah by Private Car
Frequently asked questions

How to Travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah

Now that you know why Ras Al Khaimah is worth visiting, let’s explore the transportation options available from Dubai.

Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah Bus Service

The RAK Transportation Authority (RAKTA) provides a convenient bus service connecting Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah. Operating every day from Saturday to Friday, this service departs from the bustling Union Metro Station in Dubai and concludes at Al Hamra Bus Station in Ras Al Khaimah, passing through Umm Al Quwain. Whether you’re a commuter or a traveller looking to explore the scenic northern emirates, this route offers a budget-friendly option to get there.

Bus Ticket Price: AED 20 per person

Timings:

First bus: 07:30 am
Last bus: 11:30 pm

Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai Bus Service

For those traveling from Ras Al Khaimah back to Dubai, RAKTA operates buses from Al Hamra Bus Station to Union Metro Station in Dubai daily. The service ensures you can plan your return with ease, offering direct and indirect routes through Sharjah and Ajman for added convenience.

Bus Ticket Price: AED 27 per person

Timings:

First bus: 05:30 am (direct)
Between 05:30 am and 07:00 am: Direct buses
08:00 am to 07:00 pm: Buses via Sharjah
08:00 pm to 09:00 pm: Buses via Sharjah and Ajman

For added convenience, you can plan your journey by using the RAK Bus app, which provides real-time updates and scheduling information.

This affordable and comfortable service makes traveling between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah easy and accessible. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading out for a weekend getaway, the RAKTA buses have you covered.

RAK Shuttle Bus Service For Airport

One of the most convenient and affordable options for traveling from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah is the RAK Shuttle Bus Service. Launched by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority a few years ago, this service has become popular among tourists and residents alike.

Route and Timings

The RAK Shuttle departs from two key locations at Dubai International Airport: Terminal 1 (DXB T1) and Terminal 3 (DXB T3). This makes it particularly convenient for tourists flying into Dubai who want to head straight to Ras Al Khaimah.

The total journey takes about an hour, and passengers are treated to a comfortable ride with the added benefit of free WiFi onboard, allowing you to stay connected throughout the trip.

Fare

The fare for a one-way ticket is AED 20, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for traveling between the two emirates.

Schedule

Here’s a quick overview of the shuttle service schedule:

From DXB Terminal 1: 06:00 am, 08:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 01:00 pm, 06:00 pm, 08:00 pm
From DXB Terminal 3: 06:15 am, 08:15 am, 10:15 am, 11:15 am, 01:15 pm, 06:15 pm, 08:15 pm

Al Hamra Bus Service

If you’re looking for another budget-friendly option, the Al Hamra Bus Service offers a reliable and cost-effective way to travel from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah. Managed by the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority in partnership with Arabia Holdings, this service is ideal for daily commuters as well as those visiting Ras Al Khaimah.

Route and Timings

The Al Hamra Bus service departs from the Union Metro Station in Dubai, a convenient location for those living in areas like Deira, Al Rigga, or nearby neighbourhoods. The buses are spacious and provide a comfortable journey lasting around two hours.

From Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai: The first bus leaves at 05:30 am, followed by another at 07:30 am. From 08:30 am to 09:00 pm, buses depart every hour.
From Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah: The first bus leaves Union Metro Station at 08:00 am, with subsequent buses departing every hour and a half until 09:30 pm.

Fare

The fare for a one-way trip is AED 25, making it slightly more expensive than the RAK Shuttle but still highly affordable for inter-emirate travel.

Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah by Taxi

Another convenient option for traveling from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah is by taxi. This mode of transportation offers not only privacy and comfort but also a reliable way to reach your destination without the hassle of navigating public transport. With taxis, you can enjoy a seamless journey equipped with WiFi, allowing you to stay connected throughout your ride.

The flag rate at Dubai Airport is 25 AED, and the price for every km of the way is 1.96 AED. Also, you will have to pay a charge for crossing the border between the two emirates (20 AED). So the average price for a taxi trip from Dubai Airport to Ras Al Khaimah is 290 AED.

Taxi Fare

The taxi fare from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah generally ranges from AED 36 to AED 55, making it a viable choice for those seeking convenience. The rates are structured as follows:

6 am – 10 pm: Starting at AED 5
10 pm – 6 am: Starting at AED 5.50
Per kilometer: AED 2.19
Booking and distribution fee: Between AED 10 – AED 12

Booking a Taxi

To book a taxi, you can download the DTC App, which allows you to easily schedule a ride. The app ensures that a fully maintained vehicle and a professional driver will arrive at your location within 45 minutes of your booking. This convenience makes taxis an excellent option for both tourists and residents looking to travel to Ras Al Khaimah.

Duration and Distance

The travel time from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah varies based on your starting point. For example, if you’re traveling from Dubai Airport (DXB) to the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort, the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 102.7 km. The fare for this route usually falls between AED 44.09 and AED 62.45, depending on traffic conditions and exact pickup locations.

Traveling from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah by Private Car

Traveling from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) by private car is a convenient and cost-effective method for those looking to explore the emirates at their own pace. The journey spans approximately 130 km via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), a well-maintained highway that makes for a smooth drive.

Cost Efficiency

One of the significant advantages of driving your own car is the relatively low fuel cost. The approximate fuel expense for the trip is around AED 40, making it an affordable option compared to other forms of transport. This cost-effectiveness is especially appealing for families or groups, as the fare can be shared among passengers.

Flexibility and Convenience

Having your own vehicle provides unparalleled flexibility. You can choose your departure time, stop at scenic spots along the way, or even take a detour to explore hidden gems in the region. If you’re traveling with family or friends, you can enjoy the journey together without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Rental Car Options

For those who find driving a bit taxing, renting a car with a driver is an excellent alternative. This option allows you to sit back and relax while someone else navigates the roads. While this service may be more expensive than driving yourself, it offers the comfort of not worrying about traffic or directions. Rental services often provide experienced drivers who know the best routes and can even offer insights into the sights along the way.

Alternative Car Services

If you’re looking for additional transportation options or need a ride from Ras Al Khaimah back to Dubai, you can easily download Uber or Careem apps to arrange a car. Here’s a quick look at the price range for both services:

Approximate Uber Prices

Select: AED 347 – AED 348
Comfort: AED 373
UberXL: AED 443 – AED 444
Black: AED 564
Family: AED 375 – AED 376
Green: AED 373

Careem Prices

Hala Taxi: AED 228 – AED 291
Comfort: AED 346
Executive: AED 372
Max: AED 455
Kids: AED 353
Hala Kids: AED 232 – AED 290
5-Hour Personal Captain: AED 580
10-Hour Personal Captain: AED 805

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the quickest way to go to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) from Dubai?

The fastest way to get to RAK is by using a personal vehicle. The journey covers a distance of approximately 130 km, and the travel time is typically a little over one hour.

What is the cheapest way to travel between Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai?

The most economical option for frequent commuters between RAK and Dubai is the inter-city bus service (Al Hamra Bus), with a one-way ticket costing only AED 25. In comparison, taking a taxi from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah usually costs upwards of AED 200.

How long is the bus journey from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah?

The bus journey takes about two hours to complete, making it a comfortable and affordable option for travel.

Are there other transportation options available for traveling to RAK?

Yes, aside from buses and personal vehicles, taxis are readily available for hire. Additionally, residents of Abu Dhabi can also travel to RAK using the Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah bus service, which is another cost-effective choice.