Dubai's Nol System to Support Bank Cards & Digital Wallets by 2027

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 72% of the largest upgrade to the Nol ticketing system since its launch in 2009, paving the way for account-based ticketing and payments via QR codes, bank cards and digital wallets across Dubai's public transport network from early 2027.

The upgrade replaces the current card-based model with an account-based platform that will be introduced in three phases. The first phase adds QR-code ticketing through digital platforms, followed by a new generation of Nol cards built on global payment technologies and linked to customer accounts. The final phase will enable commuters to pay directly using bank cards and digital wallets across the network.

The new platform will allow users to create personal accounts, link multiple Nol cards, including those of family members, and manage balances from a single interface. Features will include automatic top-ups linked to bank accounts, transaction history, card blocking, balance recovery and profile management, while also supporting more flexible fare structures across different transport modes.

The next-generation Nol cards will also function like bank cards, enabling purchases through digital channels and at retail outlets across the UAE. To support the transition, ticketing systems, payment devices and smart kiosks are being upgraded across stations.

Launched alongside the Dubai Metro in September 2009, the Nol system has since expanded to include the Nol Student Package, developed with the International Student Identity Card Association, specialised Nol Travel cards, and payment options for e-scooters and other soft mobility services.