Dubai’s Nol Card Colours system is a convenient, stored-value smart card solution by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), designed to simplify travel across the city. From Metro rides and trams to buses and marine transport, the NOL Card is a key part of navigating Dubai efficiently. In addition, it can be used for paid parking and select retail services, making it a versatile tool for residents and visitors.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Overview: What is a NOL Card?
- NOL Card Types at a Glance
- Detailed Breakdown of Each Card Type
- Price & Feature Comparison
- How to Choose the Right Card
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Overview: What is a NOL Card?
The NOL Card is a stored-value smart card system introduced by the Dubai Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) to simplify travel and payments across the city. It functions as a single, convenient card for public transport, paid parking, and select retail services, eliminating the need for cash or multiple tickets.
With a NOL Card, residents and visitors can access Dubai’s main transport modes seamlessly, including the Metro, Tram, buses, and marine transport such as Water Bus, Ferry, and Abra. This versatility makes it easy to move around the city, whether commuting to work, exploring tourist destinations, or running daily errands.
Fares on the NOL Card are calculated using a zone-based system, meaning the cost of each journey depends on the number of zones crossed during travel. A minimum balance is required on the card to start any trip, ensuring smooth boarding without delays. This system allows for quick, cashless travel while keeping fares fair and predictable across the transport network.
NOL Card Types at a Glance
Dubai offers several NOL Card types, each distinguished by colour and designed to suit different travel needs, from occasional visitors to daily commuters and special promotional campaigns.
| Card Type | Colour | Main Use Case |
| Nol Red Ticket | Red | Occasional travellers/tourists |
| Nol Silver Card | Silver | Regular commuters/residents |
| Nol Gold Card | Gold | Travel in First Class (Gold Class cabin) |
| Nol Personal Card | Blue | Residents eligible for concessions and added security |
| Nol Green Card | Green | Promotional / special-edition / eco-conscious groups |
Detailed Breakdown of Each Card Type
Each NOL Card is designed for different users and travel needs, from occasional visitors to daily commuters and special promotions.
Red Ticket
The Red Ticket is ideal for occasional travellers and tourists who do not commute regularly.
- Price: AED 2
- Validity: 90 days, 10 trips, or up to 5 daily passes
- Registration: Not required
- Use Case: Best for short-term stays or infrequent travel
- Fares: Calculated based on travel zones; paper ticket options are usually slightly higher than smart cards
Silver Card
The Silver Card is designed for regular commuters and residents who need a reliable, long-term travel solution.
- Silver NOL Card price: AED 25, including AED 19 e-purse credit
- Validity: 5 years
- Maximum Balance: AED 1,000 for anonymous cards; AED 5,000 if registered
- Use Case: Everyday travel across all transport modes and many non-transport services; standard class travel
- Benefits: Balance protection if registered
Gold Card
The Gold Card offers a premium travel experience with access to Gold Class cabins on the Metro and Tram.
- NOL Gold Card price: AED 25, including AED 19 e-purse credit (same as Silver)
- Validity: 5 years
- Maximum Balance: Same as Silver
- Use Case: Travel in Gold Class cabins with premium seats and extra space
- Fares: Gold Class fares are double the regular Silver fare
Blue Nol Card
The Blue Personal Card is tailored for residents eligible for concessions and those wanting extra security through registration.
- Price: AED 70, including AED 20 credit
- Validity: 5 years
- Maximum Balance: AED 5,000
- Registration: Linked to Emirates ID; photo ID required
- Use Case: Students (ages 5-23), senior citizens (60+), People of Determination, and other eligible residents
- Benefits: Typically 50% off public transport fares; balance recoverable if lost or stolen
Green Card
The green NOL card is a limited-edition or promotional card, often issued for special campaigns or to eco-conscious users.
- Price & Maximum Balance: Depends on promotion
- Validity: As per the promotion
- Use Case: Functions like a Silver Card for transport usage; may carry unique designs or eco-friendly materials
- Availability: Limited and not always issued
Price & Feature Comparison
Dubai’s NOL Cards vary in cost, validity, and features, making it easy to choose the right card based on travel needs and benefits.
| Feature | Red Ticket | Silver Card | Gold Card | Blue (Personal) Card | Green Card |
| Cost | AED 2 | AED 25 (AED 19 credit) | AED 25 (AED 19 credit) | AED 70 (AED 20 credit) | Varies / promotional |
| Validity | 90 days / 10 trips / 5 daily passes | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | As per the promotion |
| Max Balance | Trip-based | Anonymous: AED 1,000 / Registered: AED 5,000 | Same as Silver | AED 5,000 | Similar to Silver, if issued |
| Gold Class Access | No | No | Yes | No (but can choose Gold-class if upgraded) | No |
| Concession Discounts | No | No (unless personalised after registration) | No (premium fares apply) | Yes (students, seniors, People of Determination, etc.) | Depends on the offer |
How to Choose the Right Card
- Red Ticket: Ideal if you’re visiting Dubai briefly or only taking a few trips.
- Silver Card: Best for longer stays or frequent travel across the city.
- Gold Card: Suitable if you prefer quieter, premium cabins and don’t mind paying higher fares.
- Blue (Personal) Card: Recommended for those needing fare concessions or extra security through registration.
- Green Card: Choose if it’s available during promotional campaigns or if you want a special design/collector’s item.
Key Takeaways
- Dubai offers a range of NOL card types, each distinguished by colour-Red, Silver, Gold, Blue, and occasionally Green, catering to different travel needs.
- The Silver Card is the go-to option for everyday users, while the Gold Card provides a premium, more comfortable experience.
- The Blue (Personal) Card offers personalisation and fare concessions for eligible residents.
- Red Tickets are best suited for short-term visitors, and the Green Card is a limited-edition or promotional option.
- Most cards have a five-year validity, except for the Red Ticket, which depends on the number of trips or days.
FAQs
You can recover your balance only if the card is registered with your Emirates ID. Unregistered cards cannot be replaced.
No. You only pay double when riding in Gold Class cabins on the Metro or Tram. For other services, the standard fare applies.
Eligible users typically receive 50% off public transport fares when using the Blue Personal Card.
Green Cards are special-edition or promotional cards. Their availability is limited and depends on RTA campaigns; they are not always issued.
You can top up your card at ticket vending machines, ticket offices, RTA apps, or authorised retail outlets. Minimum top-up amounts vary by card type.
