The X25 express bus is one of Dubai’s most efficient public transport routes, connecting Al Karama to Dubai Silicon Oasis and International City areas. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the X25 bus timetable, route stops, fares, and metro connections for 2025.
Quick Overview: X25 Bus Route Dubai
The X25 is an express service operated by RTA (Roads and Transport Authority), designed for faster travel with limited stops between central Dubai and the southeastern suburbs.
| Route Details | Information |
| Route Type | Express Bus Service |
| Start Point | Al Karama Bus Station |
| End Point | Dubai Outsource City, Royal Bank of Scotland |
| Total Stops | 26 stops |
| Service Area | Al Karama to Silicon Oasis/International City |
| Fare | AED 3.00 – 7.50 (depends on zones) |
X25 Bus Timetable and Operating Hours
Daily Operating Schedule
Monday to Friday:
- First Bus: 6:00 AM from Al Karama Bus Station
- Last Bus: 11:00 PM from Al Karama
- Peak Hours: 6:00-9:00 AM & 4:00-7:00 PM
- Peak Frequency: Every 12-15 minutes
- Off-Peak Frequency: Every 20-25 minutes
Saturday and Sunday:
- First Bus: 6:00 AM
- Last Bus: 11:00 PM
- Weekend Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes
Journey Duration
- Total Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 33 minutes from start to end
- Express Service: Faster than regular buses due to limited stops
Complete X25 Bus Route Map and Major Stops
The X25 route covers key areas from central Dubai to the southeastern suburbs. Here are the major stops:
Direction 1: Al Karama to Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Al Karama Bus Station – Starting point
- Oud Metha Metro Station – Green Line connection
- Dubai Healthcare City – Medical facilities hub
- Rashidiya – Residential area
- Warsan – Industrial and residential zone
- Dubai Silicon Oasis – Technology park
- International City – Multi-cultural residential area
- Dubai Outsource City, Royal Bank of Scotland – End point
Direction 2: Return Journey
The return journey follows the same route in reverse, with 24 stops from Dubai Outsourcing back to Al Karama Bus Station.
Key Areas Served
- Al Karama – Traditional shopping and residential district
- Oud Metha – Medical and business hub
- Dubai Healthcare City – Premier medical destination
- Rashidiya – Established residential community
- Warsan – Mixed-use development area
- Dubai Silicon Oasis – Free zone for technology companies
- International City – Affordable housing clusters
Metro Connections and Transfers
Direct Metro Station Connections
Oud Metha Metro Station (Green Line)
- Direct stop on X25 route
- Transfer to other Green Line destinations
- Connection to Union Metro Station via Green Line
BurJuman Metro Station
- Accessible via short connecting bus from Al Karama
- Red + Green Line interchange
- Transfer hub to BurJuman Metro Station area
Connecting to Other Metro Lines
To reach Red Line destinations:
- Take X25 to Oud Metha Metro Station
- Transfer to Green Line
- Change at BurJuman or Union for Red Line access
- Continue to destinations like Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa Station
X25 Bus Fare Structure and Payment
Nol Card Pricing (2025)
The X25 crosses multiple fare zones. Current Nol Card fares:
| Distance Traveled | Fare (AED) |
| 1 Zone | 3.00 |
| 2 Zones | 5.00 |
| 3+ Zones | 7.50 |
Payment Methods
- Nol Card Required – Cash not accepted
- Card Types: Silver, Gold, Blue Nol Cards accepted
- Top-up Locations: Metro stations, bus stations, authorized retailers
Discount Options:
- Students with valid ID: 50% discount
- Senior citizens (60+): Reduced fares
- People of determination: Special rates
- Learn how to get Fazaa Card for additional discounts
Who Should Use the X25 Bus Route?
Ideal Passengers
Daily Commuters:
- Office workers in Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Healthcare professionals in Dubai Healthcare City
- Technology sector employees
Students and Academics:
- Students attending institutions in International City
- Researchers at Dubai Silicon Oasis facilities
Residents and Visitors:
- International City residents commuting to central Dubai
- Tourists exploring suburban Dubai areas
- Business travelers to Silicon Oasis free zone
Budget-Conscious Travelers:
- Cost-effective alternative to taxis
- Reliable service for regular travel patterns
Real-Time Information and Apps
Official RTA Resources
S’hail App
- Real-time bus tracking
- Route planning
- Fare information
- Available on iOS and Android
Wojhati Journey Planner
- Official RTA journey planner
- Multi-modal trip planning
- Integration with metro timings
RTA Website
- Official timetables
- Route maps
- Service updates
Third-Party Apps
- Transit App – Real-time tracking
- Moovit – Comprehensive route planning
- Google Maps – General navigation
Connection to Other Dubai Bus Routes
The X25 integrates well with Dubai’s extensive bus network. Consider these connections:
From Al Karama Area
- F11 Bus Route – Downtown and DIFC connections
- 13B Bus Route – Satwa, Bur Dubai, and Union connections
- Local feeder buses – Neighborhood connections
From Silicon Oasis/International City
- Local shuttle services – Within International City clusters
- F32 Bus Route – Marina and JBR connections (via transfer)
- Express routes to other emirates – Sharjah connections
Transfer Options
- Bus 84 Route – Dubai Marina connections
- F36 Bus Route – JVC, Al Barsha, and TECOM
Travel Tips and Best Practices
Peak Hours Strategy
- Avoid Rush Hours: 7:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM for faster travel
- Early Morning Travel: Best service frequency and seat availability
- Weekend Travel: More relaxed schedule, ideal for leisure trips
Comfort and Convenience
- Air Conditioning: All buses are fully air-conditioned
- Luggage Policy: Standard carry-on bags allowed
- Priority Seating: Available for elderly, pregnant women, and people of determination
- Free WiFi: Available on select newer buses
Planning Your Journey
- Check Real-Time Updates before leaving
- Allow Buffer Time during peak hours
- Have Backup Routes in case of service disruptions
- Keep Nol Card Topped Up to avoid delays
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
Along the X25 Route
Al Karama District:
- Traditional souks and markets
- Local restaurants and cafes
- Cultural shopping experiences
Oud Metha Area:
- Dubai Healthcare City – Medical tourism
- Dubai Creek views
- Business district amenities
Dubai Silicon Oasis:
- Technology exhibitions and events
- Modern shopping and dining
- Innovation hub tours
International City:
- Budget shopping options
- Diverse cultural restaurants
- Affordable accommodation
Before You Travel
Explore best free Dubai attractions or discover cheapest attractions in Dubai to make the most of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the X25 an express service?
Yes, the X25 is classified as an express route with limited stops, making it faster than regular RTA buses for long-distance travel.
Does X25 operate during Ramadan?
Yes, but timings may be adjusted. Check the S’hail app for updated schedules during religious holidays.
Can I bring large luggage on X25?
Standard luggage is allowed. For oversized items, check with RTA guidelines or consider alternative transport.
How reliable is the X25 service?
The X25 maintains good punctuality, especially during off-peak hours. Real-time tracking apps help monitor any delays.
Are there wheelchair-accessible buses on X25?
Yes, RTA ensures accessibility compliance on all routes, including wheelchair access and priority seating.
What if my Nol Card doesn’t work?
- Contact the bus driver immediately
- Visit the nearest metro station customer service
- Use the RTA mobile app for assistance
Alternative Routes and Backup Options
If X25 service is disrupted, consider these alternatives:
Route 1: Via Metro
- Al Karama → Oud Metha Metro → Green Line → Transfer to other lines
Route 2: Multiple Bus Connections
- Use combination of local buses
- Check Dubai Metro timings for integrated planning
Route 3: Private Transport
- Taxi or ride-sharing for direct travel
- More expensive but faster during emergencies
Planning Your Dubai Experience
Booking Activities and Attractions
Make the most of your Dubai journey:
- Book Dubai attractions tickets online
- Best time to book Dubai attractions tickets
- Dubai attractions combo tickets for savings
Must-Visit Attractions
- Top 10 must-visit attractions in Dubai
- Cultural and historical attractions in Dubai
- Dubai attractions for kids
Conclusion
The X25 express bus route provides an efficient, affordable connection between Al Karama and Dubai’s southeastern suburbs, including Silicon Oasis and International City. With reliable service every 12-25 minutes and strong metro connections, it’s an excellent choice for daily commuters and visitors exploring beyond central Dubai.
Key Takeaways:
- Express Service: Faster than regular buses with limited stops
- Strategic Route: Connects residential, business, and technology hubs
- Metro Integration: Easy transfers at Oud Metha and nearby stations
- Affordable Fares: AED 3.00-7.50 depending on distance
- Reliable Schedule: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily operation
For the latest schedules and real-time updates, always check the RTA official website or download the S’hail app before traveling.
Schedule and fare information subject to change. Always verify current details through official RTA channels.
