Learn everything about the Dubai NOL Card for seamless public transport access across the city.
Dubai is known for its world-class public transport system, and the Nol card is the key to accessing it. Whether you are a daily commuter, student, tourist, or senior citizen, having the right Nol card can help you save money and travel hassle-free.
The Nol card is a smart card that allows you to pay for your journey on Dubai Metro, buses, trams, water buses, and even parking meters. It also works at certain shops, supermarkets, and government services. But with so many types of Nol cards available, choosing the right one can be confusing.
This guide will explain the different types of Nol cards, their benefits, costs, and uses, helping you make an informed decision.
How Many Types of Nol Cards Are There?
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers five main types of Nol cards:
- Silver Nol Card: Best for regular commuters who want an affordable and reliable option.
- Gold Nol Card: Ideal for passengers who prefer traveling in Gold Class metro cabins.
- Blue (Personal) Nol Card: A personalized card with discounts for students, senior citizens, and People of Determination.
- Red Nol Ticket: A temporary, paper-based ticket designed for tourists and occasional travelers.
- Green Nol Card: A limited-edition card with specific uses.
Each card has different benefits, pricing, balance limits, and validity.
Student Nol Card: Discounted Travel for Students
Students in Dubai can save 50% on transport fares by applying for a Student Nol Card, which is a Personal Blue Nol Card designed for students aged 5 to 23.
Benefits of a Student Nol Card
- 50% discount on all public transport fares (Metro, buses, trams, and water buses).
- Secure and personalized, linked to Emirates ID.
- Online balance recovery if lost or stolen.
- Rechargeable online and at metro stations.
Student Nol Card Price
- The card costs AED 70, with AED 20 preloaded credit.
Who Can Apply?
School and university students aged 5-23 studying in the UAE.
Required Documents
- Valid Emirates ID copy
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Student certificate from a UAE school or university
Where to Apply for a Student NOL Card?
- RTA website (www.rta.ae)
- Metro stations and RTA customer centers
- Zoom stores in metro stations
How to Check Student Nol Card Balance?
You can check your balance through:
- RTA website (www.nol.ae)
- RTA Dubai App
- Metro ticket vending machines
Blue Nol Card (Personal Nol Card): Secure & Personalized
The Blue Nol Card, also called the Personal Nol Card, is ideal for people who want secure and personalized travel. It is linked to your Emirates ID, which means that if you lose it, you can recover your balance.
Benefits of Blue Nol Card
- Can be used for all transport modes and RTA services
- Balance recovery in case of loss or theft
- Can be recharged online, at metro stations, and at ticket vending machines
- Discounts available for students, seniors, and People of Determination
Blue Nol Card Price
- AED 70, with AED 20 preloaded balance
Validity
- 5 years
How to Check Blue Nol Card Balance?
- Visit www.nol.ae
- Use the RTA Dubai app
- Check at ticket vending machines
Green Nol Card: Limited-Edition Special Card
The Green Nol Card is a special edition card that is not widely available. It is usually issued during promotional events or for specific user groups.
Green Nol Card Benefits
- Works like a regular NOL card for transport
- May offer special discounts during promotional periods
Green Nol Card Price
- Price varies depending on availability and promotions
Where to Get a Green Nol Card?
- Occasionally available at metro stations and RTA service centers during special events
Red Nol Card: Best for Tourists and Occasional Users
The Red Nol Ticket is a paper-based disposable ticket that is great for tourists or those who do not travel frequently.
Benefits of Red Nol Ticket
- Low-cost option for one-time or short-term travelers
- Can be used for Metro, bus, tram, and water bus
- Rechargeable for multiple trips
Red Nol Ticket Price
- AED 2 for the ticket
- Can be recharged up to 10 trips or 5 daily passes
Validity
- 90 days or 10 trips, whichever comes first
Silver Nol Card: The Most Popular Option
The Silver Nol Card is the most commonly used in Dubai, suitable for daily commuters.
Benefits of Silver Nol Card
- Works across all RTA transport modes
- Can be used for parking meters, shops, and restaurants
- Affordable initial cost
Silver Nol Card Price
- AED 25, with AED 19 preloaded balance
Validity
- 5 years
Gold Nol Card: Travel in Luxury
The Gold Nol Card is for those who want to travel in Gold Class metro cabins for a more comfortable experience.
Benefits of Gold Nol Card
- Access to Gold Class cabins on the Metro and tram
- Works across all RTA transport
- Can be used for parking and retail payments
Gold Nol Card Price
- AED 25, with AED 19 balance
- Fares are double compared to Silver Nol
Senior Nol Card: Special Discounts for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens aged 60 and above can apply for a Senior Nol Card, which offers 50% off on public transport fares.
Benefits of Senior Nol Card
- 50% discount on all RTA transport
- Balance recovery if lost
Senior Nol Card Price
- AED 70, including AED 20 balance
Where Can You Use Dubai Nol Cards?
Apart from transport, NOL cards can be used for:
- Metro, buses, trams, and water buses
- RTA parking meters
- Supermarkets and convenience stores
- Government services and public parks
Unlimited Travel Plans for Nol Cards
RTA offers daily, weekly, and monthly unlimited travel passes:
| Pass Type | Price (All Zones) |
| 1-Day Pass | AED 20 |
| 7-Day Pass | AED 110 |
| 30-Day Pass | AED 350 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Dubai’s Nol cards make transportation easy, affordable, and cashless. Whether you are a student, tourist, or daily commuter, choosing the right Nol card can save money and enhance your travel experience.
If there is any part of Nol card missing, tell me in the comment box. If you want to know more about the Nol Card or want to know about the metro station, visit our website. Thank you.
