Nol Card Dubai – Complete Guide to Metro, Bus & Tram Travel Pass
Dubai is known for its clean, fast, and affordable public transport system. Whether you’re here for a short vacation or a long stay, the Nol Card makes traveling across Dubai easy and cash-free. You can use it on the metro, buses, trams, water buses, and even for parking. It’s like a smart travel wallet that works across the entire city.
Now, you’ll learn everything about the types of Nol cards, how to use them, where to buy them, how much they cost, and which one is best for your trip.
What Is a Nol Card?
A Nol Card is a smart contactless card issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It lets you pay for public transport and some parking zones in Dubai. Just tap it at entry and exit gates — no need to carry coins or buy single tickets.
You can use a Nol card on:
- Dubai Metro (Red & Green Lines)
- Public Buses
- Dubai Tram
- Water Buses
- Paid RTA Parking
- Some taxis and grocery stores (limited)
Types of Nol Cards
| Nol Card Type | Description | Best For | Cost (AED/USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Ticket | Paper-based, limited trips or 1-10 days | Short-term visitors | AED 2 (USD 0.55) |
| Silver Card | Reusable, affordable, all public transport | Tourists, regular travelers | AED 25 (USD 6.80) |
| Gold Card | Same as Silver but gives Gold Class access | VIP travelers, comfort lovers | AED 25 (USD 6.80) |
| Blue Card | Personalized, for residents/students/seniors | Long-term residents | AED 70 (USD 19.10) |
👉 All cards except the Red Ticket are rechargeable and valid for 5 years.
Where to Buy a Nol Card
You can purchase Nol Cards at:
- Metro station ticket counters
- Ticket vending machines
- Bus stations
- RTA service centers
- Some supermarkets like Carrefour and Zoom stores
How Much Does Travel Cost with a Nol Card?
Dubai is divided into travel zones. The fare depends on how many zones you cross.
| Zones Crossed | Silver Card Fare | Gold Card Fare | Red Ticket Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Zone | AED 3.00 (USD 0.82) | AED 6.00 (USD 1.64) | AED 4.00 (USD 1.09) |
| 2 Zones | AED 5.00 (USD 1.36) | AED 10.00 (USD 2.73) | AED 6.00 (USD 1.64) |
| 3+ Zones | AED 7.50 (USD 2.05) | AED 15.00 (USD 4.10) | AED 8.50 (USD 2.32) |
đź’ˇ Children under 5 years travel free.
Metro Zones Map (Simplified)
Dubai’s metro system has two lines:
- Red Line: Connects Rashidiya to Expo City / Jebel Ali
- Green Line: Covers Deira and Bur Dubai
There are 7 public transport zones in total. If you stay within 1 zone, you pay the lowest fare.
Silver vs Gold Nol Card: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Silver Card | Gold Card |
|---|---|---|
| Class Access | Regular cabins | Gold Class cabin (less crowded) |
| Price per ride | Lower | Double the price |
| Ideal for | Budget travelers | VIP travelers & comfort |
If you’re taking short rides or don’t mind crowds, the Silver Card is enough. For peace, space, and comfy seats, go for Gold.
Daily & Weekly Passes with Nol
| Duration | Valid With | Cost in AED | Cost in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day Pass | Red Ticket / Silver / Gold | AED 20 | USD 5.45 |
| 7 Day Pass | Silver / Gold | AED 110 | USD 30.00 |
These passes allow unlimited rides on metro, tram, and buses within selected zones.
Using Nol for Parking and Other Services
Your Nol Card can also be used for:
- Paying in RTA parking meters
- Entry to Dubai Public Parks
- Buying items in select groceries and vending machines
- Paying for water buses and some marine transport
How to Recharge a Nol Card
You can top up your Nol card:
- At metro and bus stations
- Using the RTA Dubai App
- Online at nol.ae
- At ticket vending machines
- In partner supermarkets
Minimum recharge: AED 7.50
Maximum balance: AED 1000
Nol Card for Dubai Visitors with Special Needs
Dubai provides excellent support for people of determination (those with disabilities), and the Nol Blue Card comes with extra benefits:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Nol Blue Card (with ID proof) | 50% discount on all metro, bus, and tram rides |
| Priority Access | Reserved seating on metro and buses |
| RTA Help Desks | Assistance available at most major metro stations and bus terminals |
Travelers with determination can apply for a personalized Nol Blue Card at RTA Customer Happiness Centers with valid ID and proof of eligibility.
Using Nol Card at Dubai Attractions
Some Dubai attractions accept Nol for small purchases or services:
- Vending Machines: Found in metro stations and parks, accept Nol for drinks and snacks.
- Public Parks: Entry to select parks like Zabeel Park and Creek Park can be paid using Nol.
- Marine Transport: Water Buses and Dubai Ferry (select routes) accept Nol for quick rides.
While you can’t use Nol for attraction tickets (like Burj Khalifa or Museum of the Future), it supports access to the transport systems leading to them.
What to Do If Your Nol Card Stops Working
Sometimes cards stop responding due to balance errors or wear. Here’s how to fix it:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Card not scanning | Try a different gate or scanner |
| Insufficient balance error | Recharge card online or at station kiosk |
| Damaged card (bent/scratched) | Visit RTA counter for a replacement |
| Lost or stolen card | If it’s a Blue Card, report it to RTA. Balance can be recovered. |
Always carry a small backup amount of cash in case of emergencies when traveling late at night.
Tips for Tourists
- If staying for more than 2 days, get the Silver Nol Card
- Buy the Gold Nol Card if you want less crowded metro space
- Use the 1-day pass if you plan to visit many attractions in one day
- Always tap in and out or you’ll be charged the maximum fare
Link with Top Attractions
Some metro stations connect directly to famous landmarks:
| Metro Station | Nearby Attraction |
|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall | Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall |
| Museum of the Future | Museum of the Future |
| Onpassive (formerly Al Safa) | Al Quoz & Alserkal |
| Dubai Marina | Beaches in Dubai & Marina Walk |
How BestDubaiPlaces.com Helps
🗺️ Easy Route Suggestions
- We help you plan metro-friendly trips around Dubai’s top areas.
đź’ł Card Selection Tips
- We break down which card to buy based on your stay and budget.
🧒 Family-Friendly Advice
- Learn how to save on group tickets or passes.
🚇 Sightseeing + Transport Combos
- Combine your Nol Card use with visits to top places like Indoor Fun Attractions and Theme Parks.
👉 Contact Us for a custom transport and sightseeing plan.
FAQs About Nol Card Dubai
Can tourists buy a Nol Card?
Yes, tourists can buy Silver, Gold, or Red Nol Cards at metro stations.
Does Nol Card expire?
Yes. Red Ticket expires after 90 days. Other cards are valid for 5 years.
What happens if I forget to tap out?
You’ll be charged the maximum fare for that trip.
Can I share a Nol Card with someone else?
No. Only one person can use a card at a time.
Is Nol Card accepted in Abu Dhabi or Sharjah?
No. Nol Card works only within Dubai public transport services.
Using a Nol Card is the easiest way to move around Dubai. Whether you’re here for one day or one month, it saves time, money, and stress, making your Dubai journey smooth, modern, and memorable.
