Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that 40% of the nol system upgrade is complete. The project, aimed at transitioning from a card-based ticketing system to a more advanced account-based ticketing (ABT) technology, is on track for completion by the third quarter of 2026. The upgrade, valued at AED 550 million, will introduce more flexible payment options and enhanced user convenience across Dubai’s public transport network.
Mattar Al Tayer, RTA’s Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, said, “The upgraded nol system will provide advanced features, making it easier for users to manage their accounts and payments more efficiently.”
Three Phases of the Nol Upgrade
To handle the complexity of the upgrade, RTA has divided the project into three distinct phases:
1. Central System Upgrade
The first phase involves upgrading the central system to create digital accounts for nol users. Existing nol cards will be linked to these accounts, giving users more control over their transport payments.
2. New Generation of nol Cards
In the second phase, RTA will introduce new nol cards embedded with updated technology to align with global banking standards. These cards will support secure and faster transactions across the public transport network.
3. Expanded Payment Options
The third phase will allow users to pay for public transport using various methods, including:
- Bank cards
- Digital wallets
- QR codes
- Facial recognition
- Fingerprint authentication
What This Means for Public Transport Users
The upgrade will bring several improvements to the public transport experience in Dubai:
? More Control Over nol Accounts
Users will be able to create and manage their nol accounts through the RTA app or website. They can link multiple nol cards, including those of family members, to a single account. Features will include:
- Setting top-up limits
- Activating automatic balance top-ups through banking services
- Tracking daily spending and transaction history
? Flexible Fare System
The new system will introduce a dynamic fare structure, adjusting ticket prices based on travel distance and time. This means commuters will pay more accurately for the service they use.
? Wider Payment Integration
The upgraded nol cards will work beyond public transport. Users will be able to make purchases at retail stores, pay for shared mobility services like e-scooters, and even use nol cards on digital platforms across the UAE.
A Step Toward Smarter Travel
The nol system was initially introduced in 2009 alongside the Dubai Metro, allowing seamless travel for public transport users. Over the years, RTA has expanded nol card services to include student incentive packages, special nol Terhaal cards for tourists, and payment options for shared mobility services.
The upgrade aligns with Dubai’s smart city vision, aiming to create a more integrated, cashless public transport network. The introduction of ABT technology will allow for quicker, more secure payments while offering users greater flexibility in managing their transport expenses.
Al Tayer noted, “This upgrade places Dubai among the world’s leaders in smart mobility, enhancing the user experience and improving public transport efficiency.”
What’s Next?
With 40% of the work completed, RTA is on schedule to complete the full transition to the ABT system by the end of Q3 2026. Dubai commuters can expect a smoother and more secure public transport experience once the project is fully implemented.
Read more:
- UAE Slashes Attestation Waiting Times with Online System
- Saudi Film Festival to Feature 68 Films, Global Collaborations & Awards
For more updates on Dubai’s transport developments and local news, follow Social Kandura.
