Dubai’s public transport network is smooth, modern, and affordable — and at the heart of it lies the NOL card. Whether you’re hopping on the Metro, catching a bus, or paying for parking, your NOL card is your all-access pass to Dubai’s smart transport system.
What Is a NOL Card?
The NOL card is a contactless smart card issued by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for easy cashless travel. It lets you tap and go across the Metro, buses, marine transport, taxis, and parking zones.
Over 50 million NOL cards have been issued since launch — a sign of just how essential it has become for residents and visitors alike.
Types of NOL Cards and Who They’re For
Each NOL card has a purpose, depending on how often you travel and which class you prefer:
- Silver Card: The most popular pick for residents. Ideal for daily metro and bus travel.
- Gold Card: Access to luxurious Gold Class cabins — perfect for comfort seekers or business commuters.
- Blue Card (Personalized): Registered under your name for regular users, letting you recover your balance even if the card is lost.
- Red Ticket: Great for tourists — a short-term card for limited trips at a lower cost.
- Virtual NOL Card: The newest option for 2026, available through the NOL Pay app using NFC technology.
Tip: Frequent travelers can link their NOL Blue card to the RTA app to automatically recharge when the balance dips below a certain amount.
How to Top Up Your NOL Card
You can recharge your NOL card online or offline, depending on your convenience.
1. Via RTA Website or App
- Visit
- rta.ae
- or open the RTA Dubai app.
- Login and add your card number.
- Choose your recharge amount and confirm your payment using a debit, credit card, or eDirham.
- Your balance may take 3–5 minutes to update.
Best For: Busy users who prefer managing everything digitally.
2. Using the NOL Pay App
The NOL Pay app lets you add credit instantly through your phone’s NFC sensor:
- Open the app → Tap “Top Up” → Enter amount → Tap your card to your phone.
- Works on most Android devices with NFC.
Best For: Tech-savvy users and tourists who want quick recharges.
3. At Ticket Vending Machines
Ticket vending machines are located at every Metro and Tram station.
They accept cash, debit, or credit cards, show multiple languages, and print receipts instantly.
Pro Tip: Always check your balance before starting your journey to avoid entry gate issues.
4. Retail Outlets and Customer Service Centers
Recharge your NOL card at authorized retailers like Carrefour, Zoom, and major supermarkets across Dubai.
You can also visit RTA’s Customer Happiness Centers for help with damaged or expired cards.
Smart Tips for Hassle-Free Travel
- Maintain a minimum of AED 7.50 before tapping your card — the minimum amount required for Metro entry.
- Check expiry dates via the RTA website or app to avoid failed swipes.
- Sync online top-ups by tapping your card at any Metro gate after recharging — it activates the new balance.
- Always keep a backup NOL card if you’re a regular commuter.
What’s New for 2026?
- RTA is rolling out AI-powered balance alerts in the RTA app — reminders before your balance runs low.
- Over 650 hybrid and electric buses have joined Dubai’s fleet to support the city’s green mobility vision 2050.
- The Tourist Blue Pass (new in late 2025) now bundles unlimited transport rides with Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame discounts.
Quick FAQ
Q1: How long does an online NOL top-up take to reflect?
Usually within 3–5 minutes, but always tap the card at a Metro gate or vending machine to activate it.
Q2: Can I use my NOL card for Dubai Parking?
Yes. NOL cards work at most RTA parking meters, allowing contactless payment.
Q3: What if my NOL card is lost or damaged?
Personalized Blue cards can be blocked and reissued via the app; others need replacement at RTA centers.
Final Thoughts
The NOL card is more than just a ticket — it’s your passport to Dubai’s world-class transport system.
Whether you go physical with Silver or digital with NOL Pay, topping up your card is easier than ever.
Keep your card ready, plan your trips ahead, and explore Dubai without interruptions.
Stay informed about the latest updates on
and make every ride smooth, sustainable, and stress-free.
