Types of Nol Card: A Complete Guide

Dubai’s Nol Card is an essential travel companion for residents and tourists, allowing seamless access to public transport, including the metro, buses, trams, and even water buses. Before choosing the right Nol Card, it’s crucial to understand the different types available and their unique features.

If you’re already using a Nol Card, you might want to check your balance regularly to ensure hassle-free travel. Read our detailed guide on Nol Card Balance Check to learn how to check your balance easily.

1. Nol Red Ticket – Best for Tourists and Occasional Travelers

The Nol Red Ticket is a paper-based card designed for visitors and occasional travelers. It is the most affordable and flexible option for those who don’t frequently use public transport.

Key Features:

Affordable: Costs only AED 2 (excluding the fare)
Flexible: Can be loaded with up to 10 single journeys or a daily pass
Validity: 90 days from the date of purchase
Rechargeable: Yes, but only for a maximum of 10 trips

Who Should Buy It?

• Tourists who are staying for a short period
• Residents who rarely use public transport
• People who need a temporary travel pass

Where to Buy? Available at metro stations, ticket vending machines, and bus stations.

2. Nol Silver Card – Best for Regular Travelers

The Nol Silver Card is a great choice for daily commuters who want an easy-to-use, prepaid card with automatic fare calculation. It provides access to all public transport modes, including the Metro, buses, trams, and water buses.

Key Features:

Affordable: Costs AED 25 (comes with AED 19 balance)
Long Validity: Valid for 5 years
High Recharge Limit: Can be recharged up to AED 1,000 for individuals and AED 5,000 for registered users
Easy Top-Up: Can be recharged online, at ticket vending machines, or metro stations

Who Should Buy It?

• Daily commuters who use public transport frequently
• People who prefer a standard fare for travel
• Those who need a long-term transport solution

Where to Buy? Available at metro stations, bus stations, and online via the RTA website.

3. Nol Gold Card – Best for Luxury and Comfortable Travel

The Nol Gold Card offers the same functionality as the Silver Card but with one added advantage—exclusive access to Gold Class cabins in Dubai Metro and Trams. These cabins are more spacious, less crowded, and provide a premium travel experience.

Key Features:

Exclusive Gold Class Access: Allows entry to Gold Class cabins on the Metro and Tram
Same Cost as Silver Card: Costs AED 25 (comes with AED 19 balance)
Long Validity: Valid for 5 years
Rechargeable: Up to AED 1,000 for individuals and AED 5,000 for registered users

Who Should Buy It?

• Business professionals or VIPs who prefer luxury travel
• Tourists who want a premium experience
• People who dislike crowded public transport

Where to Buy? Available at metro stations, ticket vending machines, and the RTA website.

4. Nol Blue Card – Best for Personalized and Secure Travel

The Nol Blue Card is a personalized card that offers added security, balance protection, and automatic top-up features. It is ideal for frequent travelers who want a registered card with advanced benefits.

Key Features:

Personalized Security: The card is registered under the user’s name
Balance Protection: If lost, the card balance can be recovered
Auto Top-Up: Can be linked to a bank account for automatic recharge
Higher Recharge Limit: Can store up to AED 5,000
Long Validity: Valid for 5 years

Who Should Buy It?

• People who travel daily and want balance security
• Parents who want a secure travel card for their children
• Professionals who want an auto top-up feature for convenience

Where to Buy? Available online through the RTA website and at metro ticket counters.