What Is the F12 Bus Service in Dubai and Why Is It Important?
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai operates a well-integrated public transportation system, with feeder buses playing a critical role in connecting neighbourhoods to the metro network. Among these, the F12 bus route is a vital link for commuters residing in the Satwa, Hudheiba, and Wasl areas.
The F12 bus connects commuters to the Max Metro Station Seaside on the Red Line, making daily travel more efficient and affordable for those who prefer public transport over driving or hailing taxis.
This route is particularly valuable for healthcare workers, government employees, students, and local residents due to its proximity to important institutions like the Iranian Hospital, Department of Health, and Wasl Park.
The convenience, regularity, and cost-effectiveness of the F12 make it an essential choice for people living or working in central Dubai who need frequent access to the metro and surrounding areas.
What Are the Latest Timings for the F12 Bus in Dubai (2025)?

The F12 bus operates seven days a week, including public holidays. The frequency and coverage are tailored to meet peak-hour traffic demands while ensuring consistent service throughout the day.
Weekday Schedule (Monday to Thursday)
| Time Slot | Service Start | Service End | Frequency |
| Morning Peak | 5:30 AM | 9:00 AM | Every 15 minutes |
| Midday | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM | Every 20–25 minutes |
| Evening Peak | 4:00 PM | 8:00 PM | Every 15–20 minutes |
| Late Evening | 8:00 PM | 11:30 PM | Every 25 minutes |
Weekend Schedule (Friday to Sunday)
| Time Slot | Service Start | Service End | Frequency |
| Morning | 6:00 AM | 9:00 AM | Every 20–25 minutes |
| Midday to Late | 9:00 AM | 12:00 AM | Every 25–30 minutes |
Holiday Service
On public holidays, the F12 bus continues to operate with slightly adjusted frequencies based on demand. The RTA typically issues announcements ahead of time to inform the public of any schedule changes.
What Is the Complete Route and Stop List for the F12 Bus?
The F12 follows a looped route, starting from Max Metro Station Seaside, travelling through Satwa, Hudheiba, and ending at Wasl Park Terminus, before returning along a slightly altered path with additional stops. The route ensures accessibility to residential blocks, public services, health facilities, and commercial areas.
Full List of F12 Bus Stops
| Direction | Bus Stop Name |
| Towards Wasl Park Terminus | Max Metro Station Seaside |
| Satwa, Roundabout 1 | |
| Satwa, Masjid | |
| Satwa, Clinic | |
| Hudheiba, Road 1 | |
| Wasl, Park 1 | |
| Wasl Park Terminus | |
| Returning to Max Metro Station Seaside | Wasl Park Terminus |
| Wasl, Park | |
| Iranian Hospital 2 | |
| Hudheiba, Road 2 | |
| Bada’a | |
| Satwa Bus Station 8 | |
| Satwa, Masjid | |
| Satwa, Post Office | |
| Hana Center | |
| Hudheiba, Turnoff 2 | |
| Hoot, Eppco | |
| Department of Health | |
| Max Metro Station Seaside |
This extensive coverage allows passengers to access a wide variety of public services and commercial hubs without needing to rely on personal vehicles or taxis.
How Does the F12 Bus Connect with Other Transport Options?

The F12 bus serves as a crucial feeder line to the Red Line of the Dubai Metro, specifically stopping at the Max Metro Station Seaside, a key interchange for accessing different parts of the city.
It also interfaces with multiple other RTA bus routes at strategic points such as:
- Satwa Bus Station 8 a major interchange where passengers can switch to other bus lines serving different areas of Dubai
- Hudheiba and Bada’a connecting with bus routes serving Al Wasl, Al Jafiliya, and Karama
- Department of Health for passengers needing connections to healthcare or government services
This integration ensures a seamless journey for daily commuters, tourists, and residents alike.
How Can You Access Real-Time F12 Bus Timings?
Tracking the F12 bus schedule in real-time is easy thanks to RTA’s digital tools and third-party transit applications. This is particularly helpful for avoiding long waits or planning your journey during peak hours.
Recommended tools for live tracking:
- RTA Dubai App Offers detailed route info, live bus arrivals, fare calculations, and service updates
- Google Maps Integrated with Dubai’s transit system for accurate timing and navigation
- SMS Service Send your bus stop number to 52052 to get real-time arrival information via SMS
- Smart Information Panels Installed at metro and major bus stops showing the next arrivals
Using these services ensures you stay informed about delays, detours, or service disruptions.
What Should Passengers Know Before Boarding the F12 Bus?
Dubai’s public transportation is safe, clean, and well-regulated. Passengers boarding the F12 should be aware of the following:
- Nol Card: All passengers must use a valid Nol card. Cash payments are not accepted.
- Fare: The fare typically ranges from AED 3 to AED 5, depending on the number of zones crossed.
- Accessibility: The F12 is equipped with low floors, ramps, and designated seating for people of determination.
- Code of Conduct: Riders must adhere to RTA rules, including maintaining cleanliness, avoiding loud music, and offering priority seating when needed.
Commuters are also encouraged to keep their belongings secure and avoid blocking aisles with bags or strollers.
How Does the F12 Bus Compare to Other Routes in Dubai?

To better understand the value of the F12 bus, here’s a comparative look at how it performs against other popular routes like the C14 and F11:
| Feature | F12 Bus | C14 Bus | F11 Bus |
| Starting Point | Max Metro Station Seaside | Oud Metha | Al Satwa |
| End Point | Wasl Park Terminus | Al Qusais | Al Ghubaiba |
| No. of Stops | 20+ | 22 | 18 |
| Metro Connectivity | Red Line | Green Line | Red Line |
| Frequency (Peak Hours) | Every 15 minutes | Every 25 minutes | Every 20 minutes |
| Major Interchanges | Satwa, Hudheiba | Oud Metha, Lamcy Plaza | Al Satwa, Al Jafiliya |
The F12’s unique strength lies in its dense service area and access to both healthcare and residential sectors, making it a practical everyday option.
What Tips Can Help Regular F12 Bus Riders in Dubai?
While the F12 is designed for simplicity and convenience, regular users can benefit from a few strategic practices:
- Travel outside of peak hours when possible to ensure seating and faster travel times
- Use the RTA app for real-time tracking and balance top-up to avoid fare delays
- Keep your Nol card charged with at least AED 10 to prevent disruptions during busy hours
- Plan connections at interchange stations like Satwa or Max Metro to maximise efficiency
These habits make the daily commute smoother and more time-efficient.
How Does Dubai’s Public Transit, Including the F12 Bus, Help the Environment?
Dubai is committed to sustainability in urban transportation. Public transit, including the F12 bus, plays a crucial role in reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
- The RTA’s Green Mobility Strategy aims to convert 50% of the bus fleet to electric or hybrid vehicles by 2030
- Buses like the F12 reduce the need for private vehicle use, easing congestion and lowering overall emissions
- Promoting public transport contributes to energy conservation and enhances air quality, particularly in densely populated districts like Satwa
By choosing to ride the F12, passengers are making an eco-conscious decision that contributes to the city’s long-term sustainability goals.
Why Should Al Satwa and Wasl Residents Choose the F12 Bus Route?
The F12 route is uniquely positioned to serve two highly active communities Al Satwa and Wasl that balance residential life with commercial, health, and government services.
Residents benefit from:
- Short walking distance to bus stops
- Direct metro connectivity via Max Metro Station
- Access to hospitals, clinics, and parks
- Affordable, high-frequency public transport
This makes the F12 not just a bus route but an essential public service that enhances quality of life and mobility for thousands of Dubai residents.
FAQs about F12 Bus Schedule
What time does the F12 bus start running in the morning?
The F12 begins service at 5:30 AM on weekdays and 6:00 AM on weekends from Max Metro Station Seaside.
Does the F12 bus operate during public holidays?
Yes, the F12 operates daily including on public holidays, with slightly modified timings based on RTA schedules.
How many stops are on the F12 route?
The F12 includes over 20 stops covering areas such as Satwa, Wasl Park, Hudheiba, and Max Metro Station.
Which metro line does the F12 connect to?
The F12 connects with the Red Line at Max Metro Station Seaside.
How do I track the F12 bus in real time?
Use the RTA Dubai App, Google Maps, or the SMS service by texting your stop number to 52052 for real-time updates.
Is the F12 bus accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the F12 is fully wheelchair accessible and includes priority seating for passengers with special needs.
Can I use cash to pay on the F12 bus?
No, only Nol Cards are accepted as payment on all RTA buses including the F12.









