DUBAI: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 40% of its major upgrade to the nol digital payment system, transitioning from the current card-based ticketing to an advanced account-based ticketing (ABT) system. The AED 550 million project is expected to be fully operational by Q3 2026.
The project is being implemented in three phases. The first phase focuses on upgrading the central system to create digital accounts linked to existing nol cards. The second phase will introduce a new generation of nol cards featuring advanced technologies for seamless compatibility with banking cards. The final phase will enable alternative payment methods, including bank cards and digital wallets, for public transport fare payments.
RTA Director-General Mattar Al Tayer highlighted the user benefits of the new system, stating that commuters will be able to create and manage digital accounts, link multiple nol cards—including those of family members—and control settings such as top-up limits. The system will also introduce automatic balance top-ups via banking services and provide transaction statements.
With the upgrade, nol cards will become more versatile, integrating with mobile wallets and enabling ticket purchases via QR codes. Public transport stations will be equipped with smart kiosks and upgraded payment devices supporting QR code ticketing, facial recognition, fingerprint authentication, and next-generation nol cards.
Beyond transport, the upgraded nol system will expand its functionality, allowing users to make purchases across retail stores and digital platforms in the UAE, much like a bank card. This transformation aligns with Dubai’s smart city vision, enhancing convenience and accessibility for residents and visitors.
