Planning a visit to the dazzling city of Dubai? Whether you’re heading to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, or catching a ride to Jumeirah Beach, one tool you’ll absolutely need is the nol card. This smart travel card issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is your key to navigating the city's world-class public transport system with ease and affordability.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything tourists need to know—nol card types, fares, top-up methods, and tips to save money while enjoying the best of UAE travel.

What is a nol card?

A nol card is a contactless smart card that allows you to pay for public transport in Dubai, including:

• Dubai Metro

• Public buses

• Dubai Tram

• Abras and water buses

• Taxis (select vehicles)

• Parking meters

Instead of buying single-use tickets, tourists can simply tap their nol card at the gate or terminal and get moving.

Best nol card for tourists

As a tourist, your best options depend on your stay duration and travel frequency. Here's a breakdown:

1. Red Ticket (Ideal for short-term tourists)

• Cost: AED 2 (card fee) + fare

• Valid for: Up to 10 single trips or 5 daily passes

• Customizable: Load daily, weekly, or trip-based passes

• Best for: Tourists staying a few days and traveling occasionally

2. Silver nol Card (For longer visits)

• Cost: AED 25 (includes AED 19 balance)

• Valid for: 5 years

• Best for: Frequent travelers or tourists staying a week or more

• Perks: Cheaper per-trip fares than Red Ticket

3. Gold nol Card

• Same as Silver, but allows access to Gold Class cabins on Dubai Metro and Tram

• Ideal for those who want a more premium travel experience

nol card fares – How much does it cost to travel?

Dubai is divided into zones, and fares depend on how many zones you cross:

Zones Crossed	Silver Card Fare	Red Ticket Fare
1 zone	AED 3	AED 4
2 zones	AED 5	AED 6
3+ zones	AED 7.5	AED 8.5

Tip: Stick to the Silver Card if you plan multiple trips—it helps you save money in the long run.

How to top up your nol card

You can top up your nol card with up to AED 1,000 (for anonymous cards) or AED 5,000 (for registered cards). Top-up options include:

• Ticket machines at metro stations

• RTA apps (S’hail or nol Pay)

• Online at the RTA website

• Convenience stores across Dubai

• Metro and bus station counters

Getting around Dubai using your nol card

Tourists can explore all of Dubai’s major attractions by using a nol card across these transport systems:

• Dubai Metro: Clean, air-conditioned, and super convenient

• Dubai Tram: Connects JBR, Marina, and Al Sufouh areas

• Buses: Great for destinations not served by the metro

• Abras & Water Buses: Enjoy the scenic views along Dubai Creek

• Parking: Tap to pay at RTA parking meters

Tips to travel smart with your nol card

1. Avoid rush hours (7–9 AM & 5–7 PM) to enjoy a more relaxed ride.

2. If you’re visiting with family or friends, each person must have their own nol card.

3. Check balance frequently via RTA app or machines.

4. Register your card online to recover balance if lost.

5. Buy a daily pass (AED 20) if you're using public transport 3+ times a day.

Where to buy your nol card as a tourist?

You can purchase your nol card directly at:

• Dubai Metro stations

• Bus stations

• Dubai International Airport (DXB)

• RTA customer service centers

• Retail outlets like Zoom, Carrefour, and more

Why the nol card is a must for every Dubai tourist

• Saves money vs. buying individual tickets

• Hassle-free travel across multiple modes

• Supports eco-friendly, smart city goals

• Simple, one-tap solution for transport

• Widely accepted across Dubai

Final Thoughts

Whether you're here for business or pleasure, the nol card is your ultimate travel companion in Dubai. It simplifies your journey, saves your time, and gives you access to one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. So before you hop on that metro or water taxi, make sure your nol card is loaded, tapped, and ready to go!

 

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