Dubai has one of the world’s most advanced public transport systems – and the RTA Bus 84A route is one of the most important routes linking the glamorous seascape of Jumeirah Beach Residence with the busy commercial hub of Al Quoz. Whether you’re a regular commuter, a traveller, or a new resident, here’s what you need to know about the 84A.
Route Overview
The Bus 84A is one of the routes run by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai’s transport authority. It runs from Al Khail Gate 1 in Al Quoz to Jumeirah Beach Residence 2 (JBR), via some of Dubai’s key residential, commercial and leisure areas.
Stops Along the Route
The 84A bus route stops at up to 40 stops from Al Quoz to JBR, and 35 stops in the opposite direction. Here are some of the highlights and stops along the way.
Full Day Timetable
The 84A has a frequency timetable. Here’s an example of the times of buses leaving Al Khail Gate for JBR from Saturday to Thursday. The bus operates every 15-25 minutes during the day.
Important
Schedules may vary. Be sure to check the RTA S’hail app or wojhati.rta.ae for the latest information before travelling, particularly during peak times and holidays.
🕌 Friday Schedule
Friday’s 84A bus runs later than normal to allow for Friday prayers, starting at 11:17 AM..The last bus departs around 11:00 PM.Consider using alternative means of transport for travel in the morning on Fridays.
Key Stops & What’s Nearby
Al Khail Gate — Al Quoz
Al Khail Gate is the beginning of the route and is a large residential area in Al Quoz..It’s also home to industrial warehouses, art galleries (such as Alserkal Avenue) and big-box stores..It’s a home to lower middle class residents of Dubai.
Mall of the Emirates
A true Dubai landmark.The bus stops in front of one of the largest malls of the UAE, home to Ski Dubai, Carrefour, and many other international brands..The Mall of the Emirates Metro Station (Red Line) is a short walk away and provides transportation to the rest of the city..
Dubai Internet City & Dubai Media City
A hub for the tech and media industry..Dubai Internet City is home to global giants Google, Microsoft and LinkedIn..Dubai Media City is home to TV stations, PR companies and publishing firms..The 84A is a favourite commuter route for free zone employees..
Knowledge Village
Knowledge Village is home to several universities and academies, and is located next to Dubai Internet City..It is a common means of transport for students and staff between campus and residential areas at Al Barsha and other locations..
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
The glitzy seaside destination. JBR is a popular beach destination with The Walk, beach clubs, seafood and beach access..The 84A is also one of the cheapest routes to the area – making it ideal for families and those on a budget.
NOL Card — How to Pay
Top Tips for Riding the 84A
1. Top Up Before You Board
You can top up your NOL card at all Dubai Metro stations and bus stops..You can also top up using the RTA S’hail app..Make sure your card has a minimum balance of 7.5 AED – the turnstile at the bus door won’t allow you to enter with a low balance..
2. Use Real-Time Tracking Apps
Real-time bus locations and expected arrival times for the 84A are available on the RTA S’hail app (official), Moovit and Google Maps..Buses may be 5-15 minutes late during rush hour on Sheikh Zayed Road – live tracking helps you know when to start your journey..
3. Know Your Peak Hours
The bus gets crowded between 7:30–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:30 PM on weekdays. If you are travelling to JBR for a leisure trip, midday or early afternoon would be the best time to travel. The bus is air-conditioned but gets crowded.
4. Separate Seating Sections
There is a section at the front of RTA buses for women and children. All RTA buses have this section and it is clearly specified. Tourists should know about and honour this.
5. Combine with the Metro
The 84A can be easily linked with the Dubai Metro Red Line at Dubai Internet City Metro Station and Mall of the Emirates station. If you’re travelling from Downtown Dubai or Deira, this is the route to take the metro, then transfer to the 84A to reach the coast.
Track & Plan Your Journey
Here’s how to keep up to date with the 84A schedules:
📱 RTA S’hail App 🗺️ Moovit 📍 Google Maps 🌐 wojhati.rta.ae
RTA S’hail is most accurate as it draws information from Dubai’s transport authority. Moovit is best for planning a trip with multiple routes (bus, metro, tram). Make sure to verify timings, particularly on UAE public holidays when there are schedule changes.
Conclusion:
The 84A is not just a bus route, it’s a link between two sides of Dubai. From the industrial innovation of Al Quoz and the corporate energy of Internet City, to the sunny beaches of JBR, this bus links the city together in an affordable and efficient manner. Pick up a NOL card, check the S’hail app and enjoy the trip.
FAQs
When does the 84A bus in Dubai start and end?
On weekends and weekdays (Saturday to Thursday), the 84A bus runs from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM. On Fridays, the first bus starts at 11:17 AM (due to Friday prayers) and the last bus ends at 11:00 PM.
What is the fare of the 84A bus?
The cost is 3 AED one-way. Fares must be paid with a NOL card – cash and credit cards are not accepted. To use the bus, you must have at least 7.5 AED on your NOL card.
How often does the 84A bus run?
The 84A bus runs 15-25 minutes apart. It’s more frequent in the peak morning and evening periods, and slightly less frequent in the midday and late evening periods.
Does the 84A bus operate on holidays?
The 84A bus runs throughout the year including on Ramadan, Eid, UAE National Day and other holidays. But the timetables might be different, so please check the RTA S’hail app.
Does the 84A bus have air-con?
Yes. All Dubai RTA buses are air-conditioned, so it’s a good option all year round, even in Dubai’s warm summer.
Will the metro NOL card work on the 84A bus?
Absolutely. The NOL card can be used on all modes of RTA public transport – metro, bus, tram and water bus – and the balance is shared across all modes.
Is 84A bus going to airport?
No, bus 84A does not stop at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The Dubai Metro Red Line or RTA express bus routes (X22 or X28) are recommended for airport travel.
How do I purchase or top up my NOL card?
You can purchase a NOL card at all Dubai Metro stations, bus interchanges, and some supermarkets. Top-ups can be made at metro stations, RTA customer care centres, or via the RTA S’hail app.
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