Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has completed 40 percent of the nol system upgrade, transitioning from the existing card-based ticketing system to the more advanced account-based ticketing (ABT) technology. The project is set for completion by the end of Q3 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, stated that the project, with a total cost of AED550 million, has been divided into three key phases. In the first phase, the central system will be upgraded to create digital accounts for users, linking them to their existing nol cards. The second phase will introduce a new generation of nol cards, incorporating advanced technologies aligned with international standards to ensure compatibility with banking card technologies. In the final phase, the system upgrade will be completed, enabling the acceptance of alternative payment methods, including bank cards and digital wallets, for public transport fare payments across Dubai.
Al Tayer explained that upgrading the nol system will introduce several advanced features and benefits for users. The new system will enable account creation, allowing users to link their nol cards to digital accounts, add nol cards to smartphone wallets, and purchase tickets using QR code technology via digital channels. It will also implement the flexible fare concept across public transport.
He further elaborated that users will be able to create and manage their accounts, link their own and family members' nol cards, and control account settings, including allocating top-up amounts for each card. Users will also have the option to activate automatic balance top-ups by linking their accounts to banking services, view daily transaction statements, and seamlessly suspend cards and retrieve balances.
The upgrade will also involve upgrading systems, devices, and smart kiosks at public transport stations to enhance new payment technologies. This will enable users to pay fares using various methods, including QR code ticketing, the next generation of nol cards, facial recognition, fingerprint authentication, bank cards, and digital wallets. Additionally, the upgraded system will extend nol card usage beyond public transport, allowing users to make purchases across digital platforms and retail outlets in the UAE, similar to bank cards.
