SBA expands transport network for SIBF 2025

October 29, 2025 / 3:02 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has announced an expanded network of transport services for visitors attending the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025), happening from 5 to 16 November at Expo Centre Sharjah. The initiative introduces new bus and marine routes, free onward boat connections, and increased service frequency to ensure smooth travel from Sharjah, Dubai, and Ajman to one of the world’s largest literary events.

New intercity shuttle routes

Two dedicated shuttle buses will operate daily between Dubai and Ajman, departing from Al Rashidiya Bus Station and City Centre Ajman. Each route will run three times a day over a 12-hour schedule. Departures to Expo Centre Sharjah are at 9:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 5:00 pm, with return trips at 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 9:00 pm. The service aims to enhance accessibility for the thousands of regional visitors expected at SIBF 2025.

Free marine connections for visitors

In collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the SBA is also offering free boat transport from Sharjah Aquarium and Al Qasba directly to Expo Centre Sharjah during the fair’s operating hours. Visitors from Dubai can travel on the FR5 marine service between Al Ghubaiba Marine Station and Sharjah Aquarium, with onward connections via traditional boats to the venue.

Badr Mohammed Saab, Director of Government Communications at SBA, said: “SIBF attendance continues to grow each year. This expansion reflects our commitment to improving accessibility through inter-emirate cooperation and sustainable transport solutions.”

Marine transport timings

The FR5 marine route between Sharjah Aquarium and Al Ghubaiba will operate on weekdays (Monday to Thursday) at 7:00 am, 8:30 am, 1:00 pm, 4:45 pm, and 6:15 pm, and on Fridays at 7:00 am, 8:30 am, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 6:00 pm.

On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), services will run at 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm, and 9:00 pm.

Boats departing from Al Ghubaiba to Sharjah will operate on weekdays at 7:45 am, 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm, 5:30 pm, and 7:00 pm; on Fridays at 7:45 am, 10:00 am, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, and 7:00 pm; and on weekends at 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 8:00 pm, and 10:00 pm.