Tired of the hassle of finding parking in two different Emirates? Looking for a way to get from Umm Al Quwain to Ras Al Khaimah without driving? You’re in luck! While this route might seem tricky at first, I’ve made this journey multiple times and put together this detailed guide to help you navigate it like a pro. The bus route offers an affordable way to travel between these Emirates, and you’ll get to see some interesting spots along the way.
Option 1: The Complete Route
Total Time: 4 hours 22 minutes
On Foot: 1 hour 11 minutes
Transfers: 2
Cost: 15-20 AED
Route Summary:
Start: Umm Al Quwain City
On Foot: Walk 3.5 km to Lulu Centre Bus Stop (41 minutes) – Pro tip: Consider a taxi in hot weather!
UAQ Bus: 49-minute ride with 4 stops, including Al Hamriya Bus Stop, Ajman Bank Main Branch, Crown Palace Hotel / ADNOC Bus Stop, ending at Ajman, Al Ittihad Bus Stop 2.
On Foot: Walk 80 meters to Ajman Al Musalla Bus Station 1 (1 minute).
RAK Bus: 1 hour and 44 minutes direct ride to Ras Al Khaimah Bus Station, with just one stop at Umm Al Quwain.
On Foot: Walk 270 meters to Al Hamra Bus Station (3 minutes).
Red Route Bus: 35-minute ride to Union Bridge.
On Foot: Walk 2.2 km to Ras Al Khaimah City (25 minutes) – Taxis readily available for this stretch.
Points of Interest Along the Way
During your journey, you’ll pass by several notable locations:
Lulu Centre in Umm Al Quwain – great for last-minute supplies
Ajman Bank Main Branch area – numerous restaurants and cafes
Crown Palace Hotel area – good spot for a brief rest
Union Bridge – offers nice views of Ras Al Khaimah
Important Tips for Your Journey
Perfect Timing: Early morning rides help you dodge the brutal midday heat during those walking parts – plus weekday mornings are way less crowded than weekends. Give yourself some buffer time for those inevitable bus delays!
Pack Smart: Don’t skimp on water – pack at least 1.5 liters (trust me, you’ll need it!). Throw in some comfy walking shoes and your sun survival kit (hat, sunscreen, shades). And don’t forget to charge that phone – you’ll want those maps handy!
Comfort First: Pack some snacks to keep your energy up during that long journey. The walking portions can be quite the workout, so dress comfortably and maybe bring a light jacket – UAE buses love their AC on full blast!
Money Matters: Keep some small change ready for bus fares. If you’re planning to explore more at either end, a day pass might save you some dirhams. And here’s a pro tip – sometimes splurging on a taxi for those longer walking stretches is totally worth it, especially during peak summer heat!
Why Choose This Route?
While this isn’t the fastest way to travel between these Emirates, it offers several advantages:
Cost-effective compared to taxi services
Chance to see different Emirates up close
Flexible stops along the way
Environmentally friendly option
Great way to experience local life
Looking to explore more of the UAE? Take a scenic trip from Umm Al Quwain to Ajman to experience the coastal charm of these neighboring emirates, or hop on a convenient ride from Ras Al Khaimah to Ajman to discover the contrast between RAK’s mountainous landscape and Ajman’s modern cityscape – both routes connect you to key destinations in the northern emirates.
Traveling by bus from Umm Al Quwain to Ras Al Khaimah offers a unique perspective of the UAE, although it may take longer than driving. The route is well-connected, but some walking is required, so plan accordingly. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, it’s an affordable and reliable travel option. Be sure to check the latest bus schedules, as they may change seasonally or during holidays. With this guide, you’re ready for a smooth journey to Ras Al Khaimah!