A complete step-by-step guide on how to turn your RTA Nol card into an e-card, including device requirements and costs
11 June 2024
| Last updated on 12 June 2024
Don't want to bring your Nol card around? Carry it as an e-card on your smartphone!
Ever had that moment when you're about to board a public bus in Dubai or pass through the metro gates - only to realise you don't have your RTA Nol card with you?
You won't have to worry about forgetting or losing your Dubai Nol card, as the official RTA Nol Pay app allows users to digitise their physical card and save it on their smartphone.
If you want to ditch the physical cards, we've put together a quick guide on how to convert a Nol card into an e-card, including how much it costs and requirements.
What is a Dubai Nol Card?
Dubai Nol cards are pre-paid cards that enable passengers to commute on the emirate's public transport system, including the Dubai metro, public buses, trams, taxis, and RTA ferry service.
Nol cards also allows the card-holder to make simple and secure payments at select retail outlets, pay for park tickets, access the Etihad Museum, etc.
What are the different types of Nol cards?
There are currently four types of Nol cards and all operate similarly except for a few key differences:
- The Silver Nol cards allows entry into the Dubai metro silver class zones and seats.
- The Gold Nol cards allows entry to both the silver class and gold class zones in the Dubai metro.
- Blue Nol cards are personalised Nol cards and can be availed by signing up for one.
- Red Nol cards are essentially select-use tickets that allow limited access and rides on Dubai's public transport system. This can be for fixed routes, 7-day passes, select train lines, etc.
Does it cost to digitise a Nol card?
If you're linking your digitised Nol card to your Emirates ID, it will cost AED 30. Otherwise, it's free to convert your Nol card into an e-card.
What are the requirements to turn a Nol card digital
There are a few requirements to meet if you're interested in digitising your Nol card:
- Only NFC enabled Samsung or Huawei smartphones are eligible. At the moment, the option is not available for Apple users.
- You must already have an existing physical silver or gold Nol card to convert.
Can I still use the physical Nol card?
It's important to note that once you turn your Nol card digital, the physical card will become invalid and can no longer be used.
How to Digitise a Nol Card on Your Device?
How to add a digital Nol card to a Samsung phone?
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to turn a Dubai Nol card digital on your Samsung device.
- Keep your Nol card ready on-hand.
- Download the Nol Pay app on your phone (download the UAE Pass app if you don't already have it installed).
- Link the Nol Pay app to your UAE Pass account, if you'd like to login with ease.
- Select 'Get My Nol Card'.
- Tap on the option to digitise your existing physical Nol card.
- Follow the instructions on screen, and upon successful completion your physical Nol card will be virtual.
How to add a digital Nol card to a Huawei phone?
If you use a Huawei device, here's how to digitise a Nol card on your smartphone.
- Open the Huawei Wallet app.
- Tap on the "+" button next to transportation cards.
- Select whether you want to add a silver or gold Nol card.
- Tap 'Digitise an existing physical card' and follow the instructions on screen.
- Tap 'Continue' and wait for a few minutes for the process to complete.
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