The Nol Card is Dubai’s contactless smart card for metro, buses, trams, and even water taxis. In 2025, it’s faster and more versatile than ever—here’s how to use it like a pro. Avoid fines and save money with these insider tips.
What is a Nol Card & Which Type Should You Get?
The Nol Card (Arabic for “fare”) is Dubai’s unified payment system for public transport. Choose the right one:
1. Red Nol Card (Single-Trip)
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Cost: AED 2 (card) + fare (up to AED 6 per trip)
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Best for: Tourists taking 1-2 rides
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Where to buy: Metro/tram station ticket machines
2. Silver Nol Card (Reusable)
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Cost: AED 25 (includes AED 19 balance)
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Best for: Daily commuters (metro, bus, tram)
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Saves 20% vs. cash tickets
3. Gold Nol Card (Premium Metro Class)
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Cost: AED 25 (same as Silver, but Gold Class access)
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Best for: Luxury metro rides (wider seats, better views)
4. Personal Nol Card (Registered)
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Cost: AED 70 (with Emirates ID)
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Best for: Residents (auto-top-up, loss protection)
Pro Tip: “Silver Nol Cards pay for themselves in just 5 metro trips.”
How to Top Up Your Nol Card?
1. At Metro/Tram Stations
✔️ Ticket machines (cash/card)
✔️ Customer service desks
2. Online (RTA Dubai App or Nol Pay)
✔️ Auto-top-up options
✔️ Instant balance updates
3. Retail Partners
✔️ Carrefour, Zoom, ENOC stations
Bold Fact: “You can check your Nol Card balance by tapping it on any metro gate reader.”
How to Use Nol Card on Dubai Metro?
Step-by-Step Guide
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Tap in: Hold card on the reader at entry gates (✔️ green light = success)
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Ride: Keep card handy for random inspections
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Tap out: Exit gates deduct correct fare
⚠️ Avoid fines:
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AED 200 penalty if you forget to tap out
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AED 100 fine if card balance is insufficient
Pro Tip: “Metro fares are cheaper outside peak hours (before 7 AM or after 9 PM).”
How to Use Nol Card on Buses & Trams?
Buses:
✔️ Tap when boarding (no need to tap when exiting)
✔️ Free transfers within 30 minutes (metro ↔ bus)
Trams:
✔️ Same as metro (tap in & out)
✔️ Connects to Palm Jumeirah Monorail (separate fare)
Bold Fact: “A single Nol Card can be used by multiple people—just swipe again after 5 minutes.”
Where Else Can You Use Nol Card?
Beyond transport, Nol Card works for:
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RTA Paid Parking (Zone A, B, D)
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Dubai Public Libraries
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Museums & Parks Entry (e.g., Dubai Frame)
Try this now: *”Load AED 50 for metro + parking in one go.”*
Nol Card Troubleshooting (2025 Updates)
Common Issues & Fixes
❌ Card not working?
→ Check balance at machines or via RTA Dubai App
❌ Lost/stolen card?
→ Personalized cards can be blocked & refunded
❌ Expired card?
→ Free replacement at RTA centers
Pro Tip: “Keep a screenshot of your Nol Card number—helps with recovery if lost.”
Final CTA:
Grab your Nol Card at any metro station and ride smarter today!
