Tourists visiting Dubai can use the nol card to pay for journeys across the city’s public transport network, including the Metro, buses, trams and marine transport, while some cards can also be used for parking and other participating services.
For most visitors, the Silver nol card is the straightforward option for regular public transport. It costs Dh25, including Dh19 in stored credit, and is valid for five years.
The Gold card has the same purchase price and balance but provides access to Gold Class cabins on the Metro and Tram, subject to the applicable fare surcharge.Dubai’s public transport fares are calculated according to zones.
A Silver card journey costs Dh3 within one zone, Dh5 across two adjacent zones and Dh7.50 when travelling through more than two zones. Gold fares are Dh6, Dh10 and Dh15 respectively.Visitors staying for several days can also consider a travel pass.
A seven-day Silver pass costs Dh50 for one zone, Dh80 for two zones and Dh110 for all zones. Registered Silver and Gold cards can be used for longer-duration passes, including 30-, 90- and 365-day options.
The Red Ticket is another option for short visits or travellers making only a limited number of journeys. It is a disposable paper ticket costing Dh2 before the journey fare and can be used for up to 10 trips or five daily passes, with a validity of 90 days or 10 journeys.
Nol cards can be purchased at RTA ticket offices, ticket vending machines and authorised sales agents. Visitors can also access a virtual nol card through the nol Pay application and top-ups can be made through several RTA channels.
The minimum top-up through the nol Pay app, S’hail app, RTA website and selected machines or authorised agents is Dh5. For tourists relying heavily on Dubai’s public transport, the Silver card generally offers the best balance of price and flexibility, while the Red Ticket may suit shorter or occasional trips.
