81 Bus Schedule: Updated Timings and Routes

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) continually enhances its public transportation system to meet the needs of its growing population and millions of visitors. Among its extensive network, the 81 bus route is a standout, connecting key locations across Dubai, including The Dubai Mall, City Walk 2, Wild Wadi, and Mall of the Emirates.

Whether you’re a tourist exploring Dubai’s famous attractions or a resident commuting for work or leisure, the 81 bus route offers a convenient, affordable, and efficient travel option.

In this blog, we’ll provide an in-depth overview of the 81 bus route, including updated schedules, key stops, travel tips, accessibility features, and more to help you make the most of your journey.

81 Bus Route

The 81 bus route is an integral part of Dubai’s public transport network. It connects The Dubai Mall, Main Entrance in Downtown Dubai with Mall of the Emirates Bus Station 4 in Al Barsha, offering reliable and frequent service with stops at significant landmarks, residential areas, and recreational destinations.

Who Can Benefit from the 81 Bus Route?

The 81 bus route caters to a wide range of passengers, including:

Commuters traveling between key commercial and residential hubs.
Tourists exploring Dubai’s iconic attractions like the Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and City Walk 2.
Residents who rely on public transportation for daily commutes and errands.

Why Choose the 81 Bus Route?

The route provides:

Convenient Access: With 25 well-placed stops, the route connects essential areas across Dubai.
Affordable Travel: The single-zone fare ensures cost-effective journeys.
Efficient Service: Regular bus schedules and frequent intervals reduce waiting times.

Stops Along the 81 Bus Route

The 81 bus route features 25 strategically located stops, ensuring comprehensive coverage across key neighborhoods and attractions. Here’s the complete list of stops:

Stop Number	Stop Name
1	The Dubai Mall, Main Entrance
2	City Walk 2
3	Wasl, Emirates Bank 1
4	Police Training School
5	Jumeirah, Post Office 1
6	Al Arouba Street 1
7	Rashid Al Hadees Masjid 1
8	Rashid Bin Bakhait Masjid
9	Majlis Al Ghoreifa 1
10	Saeed Majid Bil Yoha Masjid 1
11	Jumeirah 3, Masjid 1
12	Dubai Offshore Sailing Club 1
13	Manara, Enoc 1
14	Abu Manara Masjid
15	Umm Suqeim 1
16	Umm Suqeim, Dubai Municipality Center
17	Saeed Bin Huzeim Masjid
18	Umm Suqeim, Library
19	Umm Suqeim, Park 1
20	Marhaba Masjid 1
21	Wild Wadi 1
22	Burj Al Arab Hotel
23	Dubai Police Academy
24	Mall of the Emirates Bus Station 4

Highlights of Key Stops

The Dubai Mall: The starting point of the route, it’s one of the world’s largest malls with attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Dubai Fountain.
City Walk 2: A vibrant open-air destination blending shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Burj Al Arab Hotel: The iconic sail-shaped luxury hotel, a symbol of Dubai’s grandeur.
Wild Wadi Waterpark: A must-visit for families and thrill-seekers, featuring exciting water rides.
Mall of the Emirates: The route’s terminus, home to Ski Dubai and an array of global retail brands.

Updated 81 Bus Schedule and Timings

The 81 bus route operates daily, ensuring a convenient commute for all passengers. Here’s the detailed schedule:

Day	Operating Hours	Frequency (min)
Sunday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes
Monday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes
Tuesday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes
Wednesday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes
Thursday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes
Friday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes
Saturday	6:00 AM – 10:30 PM	Every 25 minutes

This schedule ensures reliable service with minimal waiting times, making the 81 route a dependable choice for commuters and tourists alike.

Fare Details

Dubai’s public transportation system employs a zonal fare structure, and the 81 bus route operates within a single zone. This makes it an economical travel option.

Payment via Nol Card

Passengers must use a Nol card for cashless payment. The fare for a single journey starts at AED 3.

Card Type	Cost	Features
Silver Card	AED 25 (AED 19 balance)	Standard fare; valid for 5 years.
Gold Card	AED 25 (AED 19 balance)	Premium access to Gold Class cabins on metro/tram.
Red Ticket	AED 2 (excluding fare)	Suitable for occasional travelers; valid for 90 days.

Ensure your Nol card has a minimum balance of AED 7.50 before boarding the bus.

Accessibility Features

The 81 bus route is designed to cater to the diverse needs of all passengers, ensuring that everyone can travel comfortably and safely. Below are the accessibility features that make the 81 bus a truly inclusive mode of transportation:

Low-Floor Entry

The buses are equipped with low-floor designs that allow passengers to board and disembark with ease. This feature is especially helpful for:

Elderly passengers, who may have difficulty climbing steps.
Passengers with strollers or luggage, as they can easily push items onto the bus.
Wheelchair users, who can board without assistance thanks to the minimal height difference between the curb and the bus floor.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Each bus on the 81 route includes designated spaces for wheelchairs. These areas are equipped with secure straps to ensure that the wheelchair remains stable throughout the journey. Additionally, ramps are available to facilitate boarding and disembarking for wheelchair users.

Priority Seating

Specific seats are marked as priority seating for:

Elderly passengers who require extra comfort and stability.
Differently-abled individuals who need quick access to seating.
Passengers are encouraged to respect these reserved spaces to create a welcoming environment for everyone.

Audio and Visual Announcements

The buses provide audio announcements for upcoming stops, which are beneficial for visually impaired passengers. Similarly, visual displays show the stop names, assisting passengers who are hearing impaired or unfamiliar with the route.

Wide Entry and Aisles

The doors and aisles are designed to be wide enough to accommodate strollers, luggage, and mobility aids. This feature ensures that the bus remains accessible and navigable for all.

By incorporating these features, the 81 bus route ensures a seamless experience for all its passengers, regardless of their physical abilities or travel needs.

Real-Time Tracking Options

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) provides advanced tools for passengers to track the 81 bus in real time. These options are designed to save time, reduce waiting periods, and help passengers plan their journeys more effectively:

RTA S’hail App

The official app by the RTA offers a user-friendly interface that allows passengers to:

View live bus locations on a map.
Check real-time arrival times for each stop on the 81 route.
Plan multi-modal journeys by integrating buses, metro, trams, and marine transport.

Transit App

This globally popular app is highly reliable for tracking Dubai buses, including the 81 route. Key features include:

Live tracking of buses with accurate arrival times.
Alerts for upcoming stops or delays.
Integration with other public transport options in Dubai.

Moovit App

Known for its detailed route maps and real-time updates, the Moovit app is ideal for first-time travelers or those unfamiliar with Dubai’s public transport system. Key features:

Step-by-step navigation to ensure you reach your destination easily.
Notifications about route diversions or delays.
The ability to set reminders for your stop, so you never miss it.

Onboard Information Systems

The buses themselves are equipped with onboard displays and announcements that inform passengers of the current stop and the next stop, ensuring that even those without access to apps can navigate the route with ease.

By leveraging these real-time tracking options, passengers can optimize their travel time and enjoy a stress-free commuting experience.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

To ensure a comfortable and efficient journey on the 81 bus route, here are some practical tips:

Plan Your Trip in Advance

Use apps like RTA S’hail, Transit, or Moovit to check real-time schedules and minimize waiting times.
Check the frequency of the bus (every 25 minutes) and plan to arrive at the bus stop a few minutes earlier.

Travel During Off-Peak Hours

Peak hours in Dubai typically occur during morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) and evening (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) commutes. Traveling during off-peak hours ensures a more relaxed and less crowded experience.

Maintain Your Nol Card Balance

Ensure your Nol card has at least AED 7.50 before starting your journey.
Top up your Nol card at metro stations, bus stops, or through the RTA app to avoid any inconvenience.

Follow Public Transport Etiquette

Offer priority seating to those in need, such as elderly passengers or parents with young children.
Keep noise levels low by avoiding loud phone calls or conversations.
Do not eat or drink on the bus to maintain cleanliness.

Be Aware of Safety Measures

Always hold onto handrails if standing during your ride to avoid losing balance.
Listen to the driver’s announcements and follow any safety instructions.

Stay Informed About Service Alerts

Subscribe to notifications via the RTA app or other tracking apps to stay updated on service changes, delays, or route diversions.

Dress Comfortably for Your Journey

Public buses in Dubai are air-conditioned, so dressing in light, comfortable layers ensures you stay cozy during the ride.

Familiarize Yourself with Major Stops

Knowing the landmarks near your destination, such as Wild Wadi or City Walk, helps you recognize when to prepare for disembarking.

Be Prepared for Dubai’s Weather

If walking to your stop, carry water and wear sunscreen during Dubai’s hot months. Arriving a few minutes early ensures you’re not rushing under the sun.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your journey on the 81 bus route, whether you’re commuting for work, leisure, or exploration.

Conclusion

The 81 bus route is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a convenient, cost-effective, and efficient way to explore Dubai’s diverse attractions and neighborhoods. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a visitor experiencing the city, the 81 bus route offers a seamless journey between The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, with stops at some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks.