Virtual NOL Card | How to Get, Use & Recharge in Dubai
Dubai has introduced the Virtual Nol Card, a digital version of the Nol card that works directly on your smartphone. It can be used across the Metro, Bus, Tram, and Water Bus, just like the physical card. With this upgrade, you no longer need to worry about carrying or losing your card; your phone handles it all. Linked with the UAE Pass app and NFC-enabled devices, the virtual card makes travel simpler and more secure. In this guide, we’ll cover its features, benefits, how to get it, and how to use it
What is a Virtual Nol Card?
A NOL Virtual Card is a digital alternative to the physical NOL card. Instead of carrying a plastic card, you can use your phone to tap and pay for public transport. It works through the RTA’s official apps and supports NFC-enabled smartphones.
How to Buy or Activate Your Digital Nol Card
You can obtain a NOL Virtual Card through the RTA’s official channels:
- Ensure you have a Huawei smartphone purchased through an official channel that supports virtual NOL cards.
- Download and install the Wallet app (version 9.0.11.324 or earlier).
- Sign in with a locally registered Huawei ID to access the Wallet app.
- Tap the plus sign (+) next to the transit cards to add your digital NOL card.
- Currently, virtual cards added via the Wallet app support payments only through Dubai Pay.
How to Digitalize Physical Nol Card
Dubai commuters can now convert their physical NOL cards into a digital version on select smartphones using the official RTA Nol Pay app. This makes travel on Metro, buses, and trams more convenient, as the digital card can also be used for parking, taxis, and some retail payments.
Samsung Devices:
- Only Silver and Gold NOL cards are eligible.
- Digitisation is done via the Nol Pay app using NFC.
- Once digitised, the physical card becomes inactive.
- After setup, simply tap your phone at Metro or bus entry gates to travel.
Huawei Devices:
- Available via Huawei Wallet and compatible Huawei Watches.
- Physical Gold or Silver card are synced to the mobile wallet.
- Once stored, the physical card is deactivated.
iPhone Users:
- Digital NOL cards are currently not supported on Apple Wallet.
How to Use the Virtual Nol Card?
Using a NOL virtual card is simple:
For Public Transport:
For the metro bus, tram, and water bus:
- View your digital card
- Hold your phone near the entry gate or card reader.
- Make sure your phone’s NFC feature is turned on.
- The fare will be deducted automatically from your NOL card balance.
Taxis:
- It’s too simple
- Just let the taxi driver know you’re paying with your NOL card.
- Then tap your phone on the taxi’s card reader to complete the payment.
For Parking Payments:
- Pay for RTA parking by tapping your phone on the parking meter.
For Retail Shopping:
- Confirm whether the store accepts NOL Card payments.
- Tap your phone on the payment terminal to pay.
Recharge Virtual Nol Card
To recharge your Virtual Card, you need a Huawei phone or an NFC-enabled Huawei Watch 3 or Watch 3 Pro. Start by downloading the Nol Pay app and creating a Nol Pay account. After you log in, select the recharge amount you want and complete the payment using your debit or credit card.
If you top up your account through the RTA website, official channels, or ticket vending machines, the balance is updated instantly at the machine and may take up to three minutes online, with no extra charges. However, if you top it up through Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, a service fee of 1 AED applies.
Benefits of nol Virtual Card
- The bus stop or metro station will no longer require you to dig through your wallet to find your actual card
- Instead of a credit card, your phone can now function as a nol card.
- You won’t have to worry about running out of balance on your card. Both real and virtual cards offer the same discounts, making them even more appealing.
Smart Digital Dubai with Digital Nol Card
The virtual card is not just a convenient tool but also an important step towards Dubai’s smart city future. It is part of the Digital NOL strategy 2018–2022 and represents a significant advancement in intelligent payment methods and modern transit technologies. This is a key component of Dubai’s digital ecosystem, supporting the city’s goal of becoming “the world’s smartest city” and reinforcing its commitment to a green economy and paperless governance.
In the near future, the RTA plans to merge all the available features of the NOL card onto a virtual platform, providing a comprehensive and easy solution for both residents and visitors. Although this technology has been in use since the third quarter of 2020, current developments indicate that it will become even easier and smoother to use in the coming times.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Virtual NOL Card is the future of smart travel in Dubai. It combines ease, security, and sustainability while giving passengers the same benefits as a physical NOL card. For frequent commuters, tourists, and anyone who prefers contactless travel, it’s the most convenient option available in 2025.
