How to Recharge NOL Card? 8 Ways to Top Up Your NOL Card

Running low on your NOL card balance in Dubai? Worried about missing your next metro or bus ride? This guide shares eight simple ways to recharge your NOL card, ensuring smooth, cashless travel with RTA-authorized methods.

How to Recharge NOL Card? (Quick Answer

To recharge your NOL card, use the NOL Pay app, RTA website, S’hail app, or machines at Dubai Metro, bus stops, or stores like ZOOM. Pay with cash or card; online top-ups take 4 hours, in-person is instant. Minimum top-up is 20 AED, per the RTA website.

What Is a NOL Card?

The NOL card is a smart, rechargeable card for public transportation in Dubai, managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It covers payments for the Dubai Metro, buses, trams, water buses, and parking fees. With four types Silver, Gold, Blue, and Red it serves residents, tourists, students, and seniors. In 2025, over 25 million NOL cards are active, making it essential for Dubai’s 3.5 million daily commuters. Recharging your card keeps your travel seamless and stress-free.

Why Recharge Your NOL Card?

Keeping your NOL card topped up ensures uninterrupted access to Dubai’s public transport network. Here’s why regular recharges matter:

• Avoid Delays: Low balance can block entry at metro gates or bus scanners.
• Cashless Convenience: Pay for transport and parking without cash.
• Multiple Uses: Use your card for shopping at select stores or dining.
• Cost Savings: Avoid fines for insufficient balance, which can reach 200 AED.

Recharging is quick, with options for every user, from tech-savvy commuters to those preferring in-person methods.

Who Can Recharge a NOL Card?

Anyone with a valid NOL card can recharge it, including:

• Registered Cardholders: Personalized Blue or Gold card users with linked Emirates ID.
• Anonymous Cardholders: Silver or Red card users without registration.
• Tourists: Temporary Red ticket holders for short visits.
• Students and Seniors: Discounted Blue card users with valid IDs.

Expired or blocked cards cannot be recharged. Check your card’s status at metro stations or via the RTA website.

8 Ways to Recharge Your NOL Card

Dubai offers eight convenient methods to top up your NOL card, using RTA-authorized channels like online platforms, mobile apps, metro stations, and retail stores. Follow these steps to keep your card ready.

1. Recharge via the RTA Website

The RTA website provides a secure online option for recharging your NOL card.

1. Visit www.rta.ae and select “Public Transport,” then “NOL Services.”
2. Log in with your UAE Pass or RTA account.
3. Enter your NOL card tag ID (on the card’s back).
4. Choose a top-up amount (minimum 20 AED).
5. Pay using a debit or credit card via DubaiPay.
6. Activate the balance by tapping your card at a metro gate, bus scanner, or parking meter within 45 minutes to 4 hours.

Processing Time: Funds are available within 4 hours.

2. Top Up with the S’hail App

The S’hail app, developed by RTA, offers a mobile-friendly recharge option.

1. Download the app from Google Play or Apple App Store.
2. Register using your UAE Pass or email.
3. Select “Top Up NOL Card” and add your card by entering its tag ID.
4. Choose an amount (20 AED to 150 AED).
5. Pay securely with a card.
6. Activate the balance at a metro station or bus within 4 hours.

Tip: The app also shows nearby stations like Burjuman or Deira City Centre.

3. Recharge Using the NOL Pay App

The NOL Pay app is ideal for quick, NFC-based top-ups.

1. Install the app on iOS or Android devices.
2. Sign in with UAE Pass.
3. Place your NOL card on your phone’s NFC chip (skip for virtual cards).
4. Select a top-up amount.
5. Pay with a linked debit or credit card.
6. Funds are credited instantly, ready for use.

Note: Huawei devices may have limited NFC support for lost card refunds.

4. Top Up via Mehboub Chatbot

The Mehboub chatbot, available on the RTA website, RTA Dubai app, or S’hail app, simplifies recharges.

1. Access Mehboub via www.rta.ae or the apps.
2. Type “Top Up NOL Card” in the chat.
3. Enter your NOL card tag ID and contact details.
4. Select an amount (30 AED to 150 AED).
5. Pay through DubaiPay.
6. Activate the balance at a metro station, bus, or parking meter within 4 hours.

Advantage: Ideal for users who prefer guided, interactive assistance.

5. Recharge at Ticket Office Machines

Visit a Dubai Metro station ticket office for instant top-ups.

1. Go to a ticket office at stations like Mall of the Emirates or Union.
2. Hand your NOL card to the station agent.
3. Specify the top-up amount (minimum 20 AED).
4. Pay in cash or by card.
5. Funds are added instantly, ready for immediate use.

Locations: Over 40 metro stations, including Jebel Ali and Rashidiya, offer this service.

6. Top Up at Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)

Ticket Vending Machines at metro and bus stations are fast and user-friendly.

1. Locate a TVM at stations like Al Ghubaiba or Ibn Battuta.
2. Place your NOL card on the card reader.
3. Select “Top Up” and enter an amount (20 AED minimum).
4. Pay with cash or card.
5. Keep the card on the reader for 6 seconds to confirm.
6. Funds are credited instantly.

Availability: Over 300 TVMs across Dubai’s transport network.

7. Recharge at Smart Top-Up Solar Machines

Solar-powered Smart Top-Up Machines at bus stops offer a cash-only option.

1. Find a machine at bus stops near Al Satwa or Karama.
2. Place your NOL card on the reader.
3. Choose “Top Up” and select an amount.
4. Insert cash to complete the payment.
5. Funds are added instantly.

Benefit: Eco-friendly machines are available at 50+ bus stops.

8. Top Up at Retail Stores

Recharge your NOL card at local stores for added convenience.

1. Visit a participating store like ZOOM, ENOC, EPPCO, or standalone outlets.
2. Present your NOL card to the cashier.
3. Specify the top-up amount.
4. Pay in cash or by card.
5. Funds are credited instantly.

Reach: Available at 60 locations, including Spinneys and Carrefour branches.

Key Details About NOL Card Recharges

• Minimum Top-Up: 20 AED for all methods.
• Maximum Balance: 500 AED for Silver/Gold cards, 100 AED for Red tickets.
• Service Fees: No fees for recharges, unlike refunds.
• Activation Time: Online/app top-ups take 45 minutes to 4 hours; in-person methods are instant.
• Minimum Balance Requirement: Maintain 7.5 AED for metro/bus travel to avoid fines.
• Expired Cards: Cannot be recharged; visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center for replacement.

Troubleshooting Common Recharge Issues

• Funds Not Added: Ensure you tap your card at a metro gate or bus scanner within 4 hours for online top-ups.
• Invalid Card: Check if your card is expired or blocked via the RTA website or by calling 800 90 90.
• Payment Failure: Verify your card details or try another payment method.
• NFC Issues: For NOL Pay app, ensure your phone’s NFC is enabled and the card is placed correctly.

FAQs About NOL Card Recharges

Q. Can I recharge an expired NOL card?

No, expired or blocked cards cannot be topped up. Visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center for a replacement.

Q. What’s the minimum balance for travel?

You need at least 7.5 AED to board the Dubai Metro or buses.

Q. Is there a fee for recharging online?

No, all recharge methods are free of charge.

Q. How long does an online top-up take?

Funds are available within 45 minutes to 4 hours after activation at a metro gate or bus scanner.