Dubai Student Nol Cards to Enable Online Payments Across GCC

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that students will be able to use their Nol cards for online payments and shopping at physical outlets across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) from December 2026. The upgrade will expand the card's functionality beyond public transport while retaining its existing 50% discount on fares across Dubai.

Rebranded as the New Dubai Student Card, the upgraded system will allow students to top up their cards instantly online, manage their profiles and renew their cards digitally. Parents will also be able to manage their children's accounts, while students can access additional retail discounts through the Nol Plus loyalty programme.

Developed in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Knowledge Park and the International Student Identity Card Association (ISIC), the card combines public transport access, student identification and international student benefits.

The ISIC integration gives cardholders access to more than 150,000 discounts and benefits across over 130 countries, covering travel, accommodation, shopping, dining and entertainment. Participating educational institutions will also be able to use the card for student identification on campus.

The upgrade will be introduced in phases, with schools and universities able to register their interest through the Dubai Student Card website.

Students under the age of 23 attending schools or universities in the UAE can apply through the RTA website or Nol Pay app by submitting their Emirates ID, a photograph and proof of enrolment. The standard student Nol card costs AED 70 and is valid for five years.