Dubai’s Nol Card evolves into an all-in-one payment solution, now usable for transport, dining, parking, attractions, and student travel / AI-generated illustration
Dubai’s Nol Card, long your go-to for metro, tram, and bus rides, has just transformed into a full-fledged cashless lifestyle tool. From paying for meals at cafes and restaurants, to parking fees, and even tickets to attractions, this little card is now your all-in-one key to navigating and enjoying the city effortlessly.
Dubai’s Nol Card: Your all-in-one payment solution
If you live in Dubai, you know the Nol card is essential for getting around. It’s been your trusty partner for tapping onto the Metro, Tram, and public buses. Well, hold onto your Salik tags, because that little card just got a massive upgrade, transforming it from a simple travel token into your new all-in-one life hack.Announced at the recent GITEX Global 2025 event, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially expanded the Nol card’s capabilities far beyond transport. The RTA signed crucial agreements with heavy-hitters like the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the dedicated parking operator Parkin, and the digital giant PayPal. The goal is simple: make life so seamless you can stop rummaging for cash entirely.
What’s new? Tap for food, fun, and parking
So, what exactly can your Nol card do now that it couldn’t before? Practically everything. Think of it as your new universal tap-and-go key to the city:
- Dining: You can now use your Nol card to settle bills at a much wider network of restaurants and cafes. No more “Do you take card?” anxiety just tap and enjoy your meal.
- Parking: Say goodbye to digging for coins for the parking meter. Your Nol card is now a verified payment method for parking fees via Parkin, making that part of your commute instantly smoother.
- Attractions & More: Planning a weekend? Use your Nol card to buy tickets for a host of major attractions and venues across Dubai.
- Student Life: A dedicated new student card will also be created in collaboration with the KHDA, streamlining daily commutes for students.
Which card is your perfect match?
Ready to join the cashless revolution? Getting your hands on a Nol card is super easy, but you need to know which color is right for your lifestyle.
| Card Type | Who It’s For | Initial Cost (approx.) | Where to Buy It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Card | The Everyday Commuter: Perfect for residents and frequent visitors. | AED 25 (includes AED 19 credit) | Any Metro Station Ticket Office or Vending Machine, Bus Stations, RTA Authorized Retailers (like Zoom) |
| Gold Card | The VIP Commuter: Same as Silver, but gives you access to the Gold Class cabins on the Metro/Tram. | AED 25 (includes AED 19 credit) | Metro Station Ticket Offices |
| Red Ticket | The Occasional Traveler: A cheap, paper ticket for quick, single trips (up to 10 journeys). | AED 2 (plus the fare you load) | Any Metro Station Ticket Vending Machine |
| Blue Card | The Resident (Secured): Personalized with your photo and Emirates ID. Protects your balance if lost and offers discounts for students/seniors. |
How to apply for a Nol Card in Dubai
Getting your Nol Card is simple. Residents can apply online via the RTA website or through the Nol Pay app using their UAE Pass. Choose your card type, upload a passport-sized photo, fill in basic details, and make the payment. Your card is usually delivered to your address within a few days. Silver cards start at AED 70 and Gold at AED 80. For documents you’ll need a recent passport-sized photo. Students must show a valid student ID, seniors (60+) need their Emirates ID, and People of Determination require their official Ministry or Sanad card.
Is the Nol Card internationally usable?
The Nol Card works across Dubai’s transport, parking, dining, and attractions, but it is not valid outside the UAE. Tourists can get a Tourist Nol Travel Card at airports or retail outlets, valid for metro, buses, water transport, and select discounts for 90 days or 10 trips. Future integrations, like Etihad Rail, will expand its usability across other Emirates. Go to Source
