The C26 bus route is one of Dubai’s most important public transportation services, connecting Wasl Park to Qusais Industrial Area and covering 33 strategic stops throughout the city. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about C26 bus timing, schedule, route stops, and essential travel information for commuters and visitors.
C26 Bus Overview
The C26 bus service operates as a vital link between central Dubai and the industrial areas, serving thousands of passengers daily. The C26 bus runs daily from Wasl Park to Qusais Industrial, covering 29 stops in 65–75 mins for AED 5, with NOL card payment only.
Key Features:
- Route: Wasl Park Terminus to Qusais Industrial Area Terminus
- Total Stops: 33 stops (29-34 depending on direction)
- Journey Duration: 65-75 minutes
- Operating Days: 7 days a week
- Fare: AED 5 per journey
- Payment: NOL card only
C26 Bus Timing Schedule
Daily Operating Hours
Weekdays (Saturday to Thursday):
- First Bus from Wasl Park: 5:30 AM
- Last Bus from Wasl Park: 10:39 PM
- First Bus from Qusais: 6:15 AM
- Last Bus from Qusais: 11:25 PM
Friday Schedule:
- First Bus from Wasl Park: 6:00 AM
- Last Bus from Wasl Park: 10:39 PM
- First Bus from Qusais: 6:45 AM
- Last Bus from Qusais: 11:25 PM
Frequency and Intervals
The C26 bus runs frequently, with buses departing every 9 to 29 minutes during peak hours, and a slightly longer wait during off-peak periods.
Peak Hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM & 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM):
- Frequency: Every 9-15 minutes
Regular Hours:
- Frequency: Every 15-29 minutes
Off-Peak Hours:
- Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes
Complete C26 Bus Route and Stops
Direction 1: Wasl Park to Qusais Industrial Area
Major Stops Include:
- Wasl Park Terminus (Starting Point)
- Al Satwa Bus Station
- Karama Bus Station
- Al Jafiliya Metro Station
- Trade Centre Metro Station
- Airport Terminal 2 – Arrival
- Airport Terminal 2 – Departure
- DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone)
- Al Qusais Industrial Area Terminus (End Point)
Direction 2: Qusais Industrial Area to Wasl Park
The RTA C26 – Al Wasl Park – Qusais Ind’L Area bus serves 33 bus stops in the Dubai area departing from Al Qusais Industrial Area, Terminus and ending at Wasl Park Terminus.
Key Intermediate Stops:
- Qusais Industrial Area Terminus (Starting Point)
- Dubai Airport Terminal 2
- DAFZA Area
- Trade Centre
- Al Jafiliya
- Karama Center
- Al Satwa
- Wasl Park Terminus (End Point)
C26 Bus Fare and Payment Information
Current Fare Structure (2025):
- Standard Fare: AED 5.00 per journey
- Payment Method: NOL card mandatory
- Senior Citizens: Discounted rates available
- Students: Special rates with valid student ID
NOL Card Information:
The C26 bus exclusively accepts NOL card payments. Ensure your NOL card balance is sufficient before boarding.
Where to Get NOL Cards:
- Dubai Metro stations
- Authorized retailers
- Online platforms
- Bus stations
Airport Connectivity
The C26 bus has two stops at Dubai Airport. It stops at Airport Terminal 2, Arrival and Airport Terminal 2, Departure.
Dubai Airport Terminal 2 Access:
- Arrival Stop: Convenient for incoming passengers
- Departure Stop: Easy access for departing travelers
- Connection Time: Allow 10-15 minutes between stops
- Luggage: Overhead and floor storage available
Travel Tips for C26 Bus
Best Travel Times:
- Avoid Rush Hours: 7:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM
- Recommended Times: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM for comfortable travel
- Weekend Travel: Generally less crowded
Preparation Tips:
- Check NOL Balance: Ensure sufficient credit before boarding
- Arrive Early: Reach bus stops 5-10 minutes before scheduled time
- Plan Buffer Time: Allow extra time during peak hours
- Download Apps: Use official RTA app for real-time updates
Connecting Transportation Services
Metro Connections:
The C26 route provides excellent connectivity to Dubai’s metro network:
- Al Jafiliya Metro Station: Green Line connection
- Trade Centre Metro Station: Red Line access
- Connection to Dubai Metro timing system
Other Bus Connections:
- C28 Bus: Alternative route option – check C28 bus timetable Dubai
- F-Series Routes: Feeder services to metro stations
- Local Area Buses: Short-distance connectivity
Popular Destinations Along C26 Route
Business and Commercial Areas:
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- Trade Centre District
- Karama Shopping Area
- Satwa Business District
Residential Areas:
- Karama Residential Complex
- Al Satwa Housing
- Qusais Industrial Worker Accommodation
Tourist Attractions:
- Dubai Museum (nearby Karama stop)
- Textile Souk (accessible from Satwa)
- Traditional Markets along the route
Real-Time Bus Tracking
Official RTA Apps:
- RTA Dubai App: Download for real-time tracking
- S’hail App: Alternative tracking option
- Transit Apps: Third-party applications available
Live Updates:
- Bus arrival times
- Delay notifications
- Route changes
- Service interruptions
Accessibility and Special Services
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- All C26 buses are wheelchair accessible
- Priority seating available
- Assistance from bus operators
Special Needs Services:
- Audio announcements in multiple languages
- Visual displays for hearing-impaired passengers
- Priority boarding for elderly and disabled
Alternative Transportation Options
If C26 is Not Available:
- Metro + Feeder Bus: Combine metro with local buses
- Taxi Services: More expensive but direct
- Ride-hailing Apps: Uber, Careem alternatives
- Other Bus Routes: Check alternative RTA routes
During Service Disruptions:
- Monitor RTA social media for updates
- Use alternative routes like F-series buses
- Consider metro connections where possible
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does C26 bus operate during Ramadan?
A: Yes, but timings may be adjusted. Check RTA official sources for Ramadan schedules.
Q: Can I use cash to pay for C26 bus?
A: No, only NOL cards are accepted for payment on C26 buses.
Q: How long does the entire C26 route take?
A: The complete journey takes approximately 65-75 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Q: Is the C26 bus suitable for airport transfers?
A: Yes, C26 provides excellent access to Dubai Airport Terminal 2 for both arrivals and departures.
Q: What happens if I miss the last C26 bus?
A: Consider taxi services or ride-hailing apps, as alternative public transport may be limited.
Service Updates and Maintenance
Regular Maintenance:
- Buses undergo regular safety checks
- Route maintenance may cause temporary delays
- Alternative arrangements provided during major maintenance
Holiday Schedules:
- Modified timings during UAE national holidays
- Special arrangements during Eid celebrations
- Check RTA announcements for holiday updates
Contact Information and Resources
Official RTA Contacts:
- Customer Service: 8009090
- Website: https://rta.ae
- Emergency: Contact bus operator directly
Useful Resources:
- RTA Mobile App: Real-time bus tracking
- Journey Planner: Plan multi-modal trips
- Social Media: @rta_dubai for updates
Conclusion
The C26 bus provides an essential transportation link between Wasl Park and Qusais Industrial Area, serving key locations including Dubai Airport Terminal 2. With regular service every 9-29 minutes and affordable AED 5 fare, it’s an excellent choice for daily commuters and occasional travelers.
Remember to maintain sufficient NOL card balance, plan for peak hour delays, and use the official RTA app for real-time updates. Whether you’re commuting to work, traveling to the airport, or exploring Dubai’s diverse neighborhoods, the C26 bus offers reliable and cost-effective transportation.
For the most current C26 bus timing information and service updates, always refer to official RTA sources and consider downloading their mobile app for real-time tracking and notifications.
Last Updated: September 2025 | Always verify current schedules with official RTA sources before traveling.
