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To travel on public transportation in Dubai, including the Metro, buses, water buses, and even the tram, you’ll need a Nol Card, which is the official fare card for Dubai’s integrated public transport system. The Nol Card is available in various types (Silver, Gold, Blue, and Red), each catering to different travel needs.
Here’s how you can get your Nol Card and start using Dubai’s public transport system:
1. Where to Buy Nol Card
You can purchase a Nol Card from several locations throughout Dubai:
a. Metro Stations
- Nol Cards are available at all Metro stations. You can buy them from the automated ticket vending machines or at the customer service counters inside the stations.
b. RTA Customer Service Centers
- You can also purchase a Nol Card from any of the RTA Customer Service Centers located across the city. These centers are available at major locations such as shopping malls, bus terminals, and key public areas.
c. Authorized Retail Outlets
- Authorized retailers such as supermarkets (e.g., Carrefour) and convenience stores (e.g., Zoom, Al Maya) also sell Nol Cards. Look for shops with the RTA logo or specific signage about Nol Cards.
d. Online via the RTA Website
- You can buy a Nol Card online through the official RTA website or the RTA Dubai mobile app. After purchase, you’ll either receive a physical card delivered to your address or you can pick it up at an RTA location.
2. Types of Nol Cards
There are four types of Nol Cards, each offering different benefits and pricing structures. Here’s a breakdown:
a. Red Nol Card
- Ideal for: Tourists or short-term visitors.
- Cost: AED 2 (for the card) + the balance amount for travel.
- Validity: 90 days.
- Details: The Red Nol Card is a one-time use card, ideal for tourists who are planning to use the Metro and other public transport for short trips. You can load it with a travel balance and use it to pay for individual journeys. It’s available in single-trip or multiple-trip versions.
b. Silver Nol Card
- Ideal for: Regular commuters.
- Cost: AED 25 (including AED 19 balance for travel).
- Validity: No expiry date.
- Details: The Silver Nol Card is the most commonly used card for everyday travel on Dubai’s public transport. It offers flexibility for regular users and allows you to load more credit onto it as needed.
c. Gold Nol Card
- Ideal for: Premium travelers who want to travel in the Gold Class on the Metro.
- Cost: AED 25 (including AED 19 balance for travel).
- Details: The Gold Nol Card gives you access to the Gold Class cabins on the Dubai Metro, which offer more luxurious seating and a less crowded travel experience. It works similarly to the Silver Nol Card, but with the added perk of traveling in style.
d. Blue Nol Card
- Ideal for: Residents or long-term users.
- Cost: AED 70 (including AED 20 deposit and AED 50 balance).
- Validity: 5 years.
- Details: The Blue Nol Card is for UAE residents and offers a variety of benefits, including access to all modes of public transport. It’s a personalized card and requires registration with the RTA. This card is particularly useful for people who live in Dubai and regularly use public transport, as it offers some discounts and additional benefits.
3. How to Load and Top Up Your Nol Card
Once you have your Nol Card, you can easily top it up to add balance for travel. There are several ways to do this:
a. At Metro Stations
- Ticket Vending Machines: You can top up your card at any of the automated ticket vending machines in the Metro stations. These machines accept cash and credit cards.
- Customer Service Counters: If you prefer assistance, you can visit the customer service counters at Metro stations to top up your card.
b. Online
- You can add credit to your Nol Card online via the RTA website or the RTA Dubai app. Payments can be made using credit/debit cards.
c. Retail Outlets
- Many convenience stores, such as Carrefour, Zoom, or Al Maya, have Nol Card top-up services where you can add credit to your card.
d. Nol Top-Up Kiosks
- There are Nol top-up kiosks located throughout the city, where you can quickly add credit using cash or card.
4. Using Your Nol Card
To use the Nol Card, simply tap it on the card reader at the entry and exit points of Metro stations, buses, and other RTA services. The system will automatically deduct the fare based on the distance traveled.
- For Metro/Tram: Tap in when you enter the station and tap out when you exit.
- For Buses: Tap in when boarding and tap out when alighting.
- For Water Transport: Tap in at the entrance and tap out when you get off.
5. Where Can You Use Your Nol Card?
- Dubai Metro: The Nol Card can be used on the entire Dubai Metro network (Red and Green lines).
- Dubai Tram: You can use it on the Dubai Tram, which operates in areas like Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), and Palm Jumeirah.
- Buses: The Nol Card is accepted on all RTA buses within Dubai, including city buses and intercity buses.
- Water Buses & Ferries: You can use your Nol Card for water transport, including the water buses and ferries.
- Parking: The Nol Card is also accepted for paid parking in Dubai at designated parking meters.
6. Nol Card Discounts & Offers
- Seniors, People of Determination (Disability), and Children: These groups can apply for special Nol cards offering discounts or free rides on public transport. You’ll need to show appropriate documentation to apply for these cards.
- Monthly or Annual Passes: The Blue Nol Card offers some options for those who use public transport regularly and want to benefit from discounts on travel.
7. Where to Use the Nol Card in Metro Stations
Once you have your Nol Card, you can use it at any Metro station for:
- Entry and exit gates.
- Ticket vending machines for adding balance or purchasing tickets.
Conclusion
Getting a Nol Card in Dubai is a straightforward process. You can purchase one at Metro stations, authorized retailers, or online, and choose the card type that best suits your travel needs. Whether you’re visiting Dubai for a short time or living here long-term, the Nol Card is your key to an easy, affordable, and convenient travel experience across the city’s public transport network.
