Digital NOL Card: Types, Benefits, Application Process, etc.
Traveling to Dubai or planning to stay there for quite some time? If yes, I’m sure you might be looking for ways to cut down on your expenses. Amongst several such ways, one fool-proof way is to travel across different destinations in the city in a budget-friendly way. To make sure that you do not have to spend too much on transportation, authorities in UAE have come up with an NOL card.
This NOL card comes in two forms; one is a digital NOL card and the other one is a physical NOL card. And in this particular post, I am going to share extensive details on the digital version of this card.
So, come along and take the pathway to learn what this card is, why should you use it, the application process, and the way to use it.
Digital NOL Card in Dubai- What is it?
People in Dubai have been using the physical version of the NOL card for quite a few years now. However, recently the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in the city has introduced the digital version of this card so that you can make contactless and cashless payments for commuting in the city.
The reason why people are opting for a digital card instead of a physical one is because a physical card can get damaged or lost. But, this is not the case with the digital version of the card.
Moreover, you can easily top-up this card directly from your smartphone using the Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or the RTA App Dubai.
Why use a digital NOL Card? Know the benefits
When in Dubai, we recommend you use the NOL card services to save on your travel expenses. However, the reasons why we want you to use the physical version of this card have been listed below:
- Convenience: Well, you do not need to remember to carry the physical card
- Easy top-up: You can easily top-up the card using your smartphone
- Eco-friendly: Less use of plastic and helps towards attaining sustainability
- Multiple Users: Share your card with others so that they can also use it
- Quick and contactless payments: No need to carry cash for traveling when you have this card with you
How to apply for a Digital NOL Card? (Via RTA App)
Basically, there are two ways to obtain a digital NOL card in Dubai. You can either apply for this card from within the Google Wallet or the Apple Wallet app. Or you can apply the easy steps explained below:
- Begin by installing the RTA Dubai App on a supported device
- Open the app and register for an account on the platform
- If you already have an account, sign in with your credentials
- Following this, go to the “NOL Services” Section
- Then, you should click the “Apply for Digital NOL Card” option
- Select the card type: Silver/ Gold/ Personalized card
- Further, you need to top up your card by entering the amount to be loaded
- Select the payment method for the transaction: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Debit/Credit Card, and other available options
- Once you make the payment, your card will be activated and you can start using it
- The card can be used to access traveling services such as Metro, Buses, parking services, water transport, etc.
How to use a digital NOL Card?
Using this digital card is a very easy and straightforward process. All you need to do is enable the NFC (Near Field Communication) feature on your device, if not enabled already. Please note that this feature is already enabled on Apple devices. On the other hand, you can enable it manually on your Android device.
For this, navigate to the “Settings” menu of your device and choose “Connections” or “Wireless & Networks” option. Within this menu, you will find the “NFC” setting which needs to be enabled further.
Once you’re done enabling this feature, you can simply tap your phone at the entry gate and the rest will be done automatically.
Where Can You Use the Digital NOL Card?
The NOL card can be used to access several transport facilities in Dubai. Use this versatile payment option to make payments at:
- Dubai Metro
- Buses
- Dubai Tram
- Water buses/taxis/abras
- Public parking spaces
- Museums, parks, and recreational spaces
Conclusion:
This certainly is a versatile payment card that every individual in Dubai should own. The best thing about this card is that you do not have the fear of losing it and neither will it get damaged. You can easily top-up this card directly from your smartphone. If you are investing in crypto real estate in Dubai, then this card will help you cut down on expenses in the long term.
