By Staff Reporter
Dubai, UAE – Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 72 percent of its comprehensive upgrade of the nol payment system, bringing the emirate closer to a fully digital, account-based ticketing platform. The transformation is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2027.
The project marks one of the RTA’s most significant digital initiatives, replacing the traditional card-based system with a modern payment ecosystem designed to offer greater convenience, flexibility, and seamless integration across Dubai’s transport network.
According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at the RTA, the upgrade is a strategic investment that will unify payment services across various transport modes while supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming a smart, cashless city.
The rollout is being implemented in three phases. The first phase introduces QR code ticketing through digital platforms. The second phase features a new generation of nol cards built with advanced technology, allowing them to integrate with banking systems and automatically link to customers’ accounts upon activation. The final phase will enable passengers to pay fares using bank cards, digital wallets, and the upgraded nol cards.
Once the project is complete, users will be able to create personal accounts, manage multiple nol cards—including those belonging to family members—set customised top-up amounts, activate automatic balance recharges through linked bank accounts, and access detailed transaction histories. Additional features will include card blocking, balance recovery, and enhanced account management tools.
The upgraded nol cards will also extend beyond public transport, functioning similarly to bank cards for purchases at retail stores and digital platforms across the UAE.
The initiative supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to smart mobility and integrated digital services.
Since its introduction alongside the Dubai Metro in 2009, the nol system has continuously evolved. Recent enhancements include student discount programmes and integration with e-scooter payments, making Dubai one of the first cities in the world to incorporate micromobility services into its public transport payment network.
Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)
