Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has reported a strong surge in the use of digital channels for topping up nol cards in the first half of 2025. The move marks a significant transition away from traditional cash payments at ticket vending machines and service counters.
Figures show that cash top-ups dropped by 28% across the network during this period, while digital recharges saw a noticeable increase. This reflects changing commuter habits, driven by convenience and the RTA’s recent system upgrades across Dubai’s public transport network.
Smart upgrades change the way Dubai travels
To improve efficiency and commuter satisfaction, the RTA has rolled out several service enhancements in recent months. Among the most effective changes are:
- Digital ticket vending and top-up machines across metro stations and public transport hubs
- Improved RTA Dubai mobile app for on-the-go transactions
- Increased minimum top-up amounts for cash payments at counters and machines
- Awareness drives encouraging commuters to switch to digital channels
These changes have led to an uptick in usage of smart kiosks, mobile apps, and the official RTA website, with more people turning to self-service options instead of queuing for counter support.
Cash declines, digital climbs
Looking at the breakdown of figures from January to June 2025, several trends stand out:
- Traditional cash top-ups at vending machines dropped by 28%
- Digital transactions via the same machines increased by 20% year-on-year
- Cash recharges at ticket counters dropped by 37%
- Digital top-ups at counters declined slightly by 6%, as more users turned to fully self-managed options
- Overall, top-up transactions at sales counters saw a 26% decrease
These changes not only reduce wait times but also lighten the load on operational resources, especially those tied to manual cash handling.
System reliability gets a boost
One of the unexpected benefits of fewer cash-based transactions has been a reduction in system failures. The RTA recorded an 80% drop in technical faults at vending machines, which can largely be attributed to less mechanical stress caused by cash processing.
The move towards digital channels is proving to be not just a matter of convenience but a technical advantage as well, ensuring smoother functioning of infrastructure and better uptime for commuters.
Commuters making a switch
For thousands of daily metro, bus, tram, and marine transport users, topping up nol cards is a routine part of city life. With digital channels now more accessible and reliable, the reasons behind this growing preference are easy to understand:
- Faster transactions: No need to queue at counters
- 24/7 convenience: Recharge anytime from your phone or laptop
- Smarter budgeting: Instant balance checks and top-up history
- Less hassle: Fewer chances of failed or delayed transactions
- Contactless options: A safer, touch-free experience
These benefits align with the lifestyle of Dubai’s fast-moving, tech-savvy population — whether Emirati or expatriate.
Supporting Dubai’s smart mobility ambitions
This digital transition aligns with the broader vision of the emirate’s smart city strategy. The RTA’s push towards automation and digital-first services helps support:
- Sustainable public transport
- Lower operational costs for the government
- Reduced congestion at service counters
- Increased commuter satisfaction and system reliability
By gradually removing the need for manual intervention in everyday transactions, Dubai is laying the groundwork for more advanced transport solutions — including account-based ticketing (ABT), upcoming integrations with Salik, and seamless intermodal mobility.
The shift in commuter habits during the first half of 2025 is clear: digital NOL card top-ups are no longer just an option; they’re becoming the norm.
With fewer cash payments, fewer breakdowns, and more efficient service delivery, the RTA is demonstrating how smart policy changes and technological upgrades can lead to meaningful results — all while prioritizing the user.
As Dubai continues to innovate in mobility and infrastructure, the city’s public transport network is fast becoming one of the most forward-thinking and commuter-friendly systems in the region.
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