Dubai’s Public Transport Authority (RTA) has developed one of the most effective and user-friendly bus networks across the globe. A standout express line among the several regularly operated is the X25 bus, which connects Al Karama in central Dubai to Dubai Silicon Oasis and the popular Dubai Outsource City. This route serves as a vital link for the daily commuters, students, and IT professionals who travel between the busy city center and the newly developed southeast corridor.
This complete guide will help you grasp the X25 bus schedule route, fare details, travel tips, and much more in a simple and informative way. You can also see for yourself that, even in 2025, you still have a reliable option in this service.
The X25 bus route can be seen as a key express connection between the city’s traditional and modern areas.
Starting Point: Al Karama Bus Station (near Bur Dubai)
Endpoint: Dubai Outsource City (via Dubai Silicon Oasis)
This is a route that, due to its length (40 kilometers). It gains importance as a major link between many commercial, educational, and residential areas. The “X” in X25 indicates “Express”. Hence, it is a bus service that has fewer stops than regular buses, which in turn enables long-distance travelers to undertake it in less time.
The RTA timetable for X25 has been shaped by the changes occurring in the commuting patterns of people in Dubai. The following information concerns the current operating details:
Monday – Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: First bus around 07:00 AM departs from Al Karama.
Friday: Service starts later, with the first bus around 09:58 AM.
Last Departure: Approximately 10:45 PM to 11:00 PM, depending on direction and day.
Weekdays (Peak Hours): Every 15–20 minutes
Off-Peak Hours: Every 25–30 minutes
Fridays: Every 30–35 minutes
The whole trip from one end to the other lasts 45 to 60 minutes normally, which depends on the flow of traffic and the time of day.
The above-mentioned timeframes make X25 not only an appropriate option for workers but also for people travelling off-duty.
The X25 bus serves to link some of the most important localities and cultural sites while at the same time being a great choice for both everyday travel and weekend getaways.
Here’s a list of major stops along the route:
Al Karama Bus Station – The main hub at the heart of old Dubai.
Oud Metha Metro Station – The interchange station with the Dubai Metro Green Line.
Dubai Healthcare City – A recommended stop for the medical crowd with both professionals and patients.
Academic City – Stops near several universities and educational institutions.
Dubai Silicon Oasis – A technology and startup hub.
Dubai Outsource City – The last stop at which corporate offices and call centers can be found mostly.
That route allows the smooth flow of students, workers, and people in general to Dubai’s innovation and education areas.
Smartcard systems in Dubai, such as NOL, consist of contactless cashless payments for public transport. Passengers have to tap the NOL card when boarding and exiting to know the total fare to be paid.
1 Zone: AED 3.00
2 Zones: AED 5.00
3+ Zones: AED 7.50
NOL Red Ticket – Best for tourists or periodic travelers.
NOL Silver or Gold Card – The best choice for regular travelers.
Students, seniors, and people with disabilities are given discounts, which is a part of the public transport system striving for equality and inclusion.
The buses are running on timetables, which are subject to changes because of the fluctuating traffic situation and other factors. So, they need to be regularly monitored.
Morning rush (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) and evening rush (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) can mean busier rides and longer travel times. Traveling slightly earlier or later can save time.
In case you happen to move between fare zones, your NOL card must have enough balance before you enter the bus to avoid penalties.
Add the X25 to your metro connection at Oud Metha Station and travel around Dubai without any hassles.
Every passenger can feel comfortable traveling with RTA buses as X25 also offers air-conditioning, priority seating, space for wheelchair users, and light luggage — the necessities for every traveler.
X25, when stacked against either a taxi or a ride-sharing service, provides distance commuters with a budget-friendly and trustworthy public transport alternative.
Frequent services all through the day result in minimal waits, even during off-peak hours.
This route runs alongside key metro lines and road corridors. Thus, it allows passengers greater flexibility in their travel plans.
The "X" mark means that the bus will stop fewer times, making the trip faster than local bus services.
All buses operated by Dubai RTA conform to arbitrary hygiene and environmental standards. Thus, they are clean, timely, and safe for passengers.
Traffic Delays: Dubai’s major roads, particularly those around Academic City and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, may face heavy pressure during busy times.
Friday Schedules: The service starts first with a later bus in wait Fridays.: So early morning
Crowding: Specifically, Al Karama can make buses quickly filled from 8 AM to 9 AM, bust times.
Weather Impact: In cases of very heavy rainfall and sandstorms, be careful and add a little extra time.
Fare Zones: Always check the RTA fare map so that you cover adequate zone numbers for your journey.
The X25 is not only a bus, but it is also part of an RTA-wide network that allows you to use one NOL card for everything - all interchanging between buses, metro, and trams is done effortlessly.
Here are the suggested switchings:
X25 + Green Line Metro (Oud Metha Station) → This route is perfect for visiting the Deira or Creek areas.
X25 + RTA Taxi → The best option for a last-mile ride from Silicon Oasis or Academic City.
X25 + Bus F10/F30 → Connects residential areas like International City or Mirdif.
This is a perfect example of the transportation system overall being one of the most interconnected in the region.
Using public transport like X25 helps in curbing carbon emissions and reducing road congestion. Each bus trip, on average, represents a carpool of cars on the road. Therefore, they bring about a better and cleaner condition for the city.
The RTA is pursuing its environmentally friendly policies by expanding electric and hybrid bus fleets. Thus, the X25 will remain a green choice for years to come.
The X25 phenomenon transcends a mere bus offering a financial link between the old Dubai and the modern, high-tech Dubai. Value for money, accessibility, and reliable services make it the number one option for daily commuters and parents alike.
To travel easily, comfortably, and promptly, the answer is always the X25 bus schedule.
The X25 is operational from approximately 7 AM till 11 PM on the majority of days; Fridays are an exception when it starts a bit later.
The usual time for the whole trip is 45 to 60 minutes, but sometimes traffic conditions may vary.
Prices vary between AED 3.00 to AED 7.50 depending on the zones you pass through.
Yes, there is a stop at Oud Metha Metro Station, which is very close, and it allows transfer to the Green Line very quickly.
The public bus stops operating usually at around 10:45 PM to 11:00 PM. You could take RTA night bus routes or taxis for late-night travel instead.
Emila is a passionate real estate expert, lifestyle enthusiast, and writer dedicated to showcasing the dynamic charm of Dubai. With 6 in real estate, travel writing, Emila Hales brings insightful perspectives to readers exploring Dubai’s vibrant real estate market, luxurious lifestyle, and diverse cultural offerings. As an avid storyteller, Emila loves sharing tips on finding dream properties, uncovering hidden gems in the city, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of Dubai.
06 Nov 2025
05 Nov 2025
03 Nov 2025
01 Nov 2025
31 Oct 2025
28 Oct 2025
27 Oct 2025
25 Oct 2025
What's your reason for leaving?