Dubai’s nol Digital Payment System Upgrade Reaches 40% Milestone, RTA Announces

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has reached a significant milestone in its ambitious upgrade of the nol payment system, with 40% of the project now complete. The transition from the current card-based ticketing system to a cutting-edge account-based ticketing (ABT) framework is progressing steadily, with full implementation targeted for the end of Q3 2026. This Dhs550m initiative aims to revolutionize public transport payments in Dubai, aligning the emirate with global fintech innovations and enhancing user convenience.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, highlighted the transformative scope of the project, which is being executed in three meticulously planned phases. “This upgrade reflects Dubai’s commitment to adopting international best practices in digital payments and smart mobility,” Al Tayer stated, emphasizing the system’s role in elevating the city’s public transport experience.

A Three-Phase Transformation

The first phase focuses on upgrading the central system to enable the creation of digital accounts for nol users, seamlessly linking them to existing cards. Phase two will usher in a new generation of nol cards equipped with advanced technology compatible with international banking standards. The third and final phase will integrate alternative payment options, allowing commuters to use bank cards, digital wallets, and other methods to pay for fares across Dubai’s public transport network.

Set to conclude by September 2026, the project promises a future-ready payment ecosystem that caters to the evolving needs of residents, tourists, and commuters alike.

Enhanced Features for Users

The revamped nol system will introduce a host of user-friendly features designed to simplify and personalize the payment experience. Commuters will be able to create digital accounts, link multiple nol cards—such as those of family members—and manage settings like automatic top-ups by connecting to banking services. The system will also support ticket purchases via QR codes, adding cards to smartphone wallets, and viewing daily transaction histories.

Beyond convenience, the upgrade will enhance security and flexibility. Users can suspend lost cards and recover balances with ease, while smart kiosks and station devices will be upgraded to accept diverse payment methods, including facial recognition, fingerprint authentication, and next-generation nol cards.

Perhaps most notably, the new system will expand the nol card’s utility beyond transport. Once fully implemented, users will be able to make purchases at retail outlets and digital platforms across the UAE, mirroring the functionality of traditional bank cards.

A Vision for Seamless Mobility

Since its launch on September 9, 2009, alongside the Dubai Metro, the nol card has been a cornerstone of the emirate’s public transport ecosystem. Over the years, RTA has rolled out enhancements like student discount packages in partnership with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), as well as nol Terhaal cards tailored for tourists and residents. The card has also been integrated with shared mobility options, such as e-scooters, to support first- and last-mile connectivity.

With this latest upgrade, RTA is doubling down on its mission to position Dubai as a global leader in smart mobility. The introduction of flexible fare structures and multi-modal payment options will further streamline travel across the city’s buses, metro, trams, and other transport services.

Looking Ahead

As the nol system approaches its next evolution, the RTA remains committed to delivering a world-class experience for commuters. With 40% of the upgrade already complete, anticipation is building for a system that promises not only convenience but also a glimpse into the future of urban mobility.

By the end of Q3 2026, Dubai’s public transport users can expect a fully digital, versatile, and interconnected payment platform—one that reinforces the emirate’s reputation as a pioneer in innovation and technology.