Discover the benefits of the Gold NOL Card for a premium travel experience in Dubai.
Dubai’s public transport system is one of the most efficient in the world, and the Nol Card is an essential tool for commuters. Among the different types of Nol Cards, the Gold Nol Card offers a premium travel experience by allowing access to Gold Class cabins on the Dubai Metro and Tram. This card is ideal for passengers who prefer a more comfortable and less crowded journey.
With the Gold Nol Card, you can enjoy priority seating and a more spacious travel environment. Although the fares are higher than regular class, many travelers find the added comfort and convenience worth the price. This card is not limited to the metro and tram; it can also be used on buses, water buses, and even RTA parking meters.
This guide explains the prices, fees, and validity of the Gold Nol Card. You will learn how much it costs, how to recharge it, and how long it remains valid. By the end of this article, you will have all the information needed to decide whether the Gold Nol Card is the right choice for you.
Price of the Gold Nol Card
If you want to buy a Gold Nol Card, you will need to pay AED 25. This cost includes an initial balance of AED 19, which you can use for your travel immediately. However, you must maintain a minimum balance of AED 7.50 to use the card.
The recharge process is simple and allows you to add credit in different amounts. You can top up your card at metro stations, bus stations, ticket vending machines, RTA service centers, online portals, and through the Nol Pay mobile app.
The table below shows the minimum and maximum recharge amounts for the Gold Nol Card:
| Recharge Amount | Details |
| Minimum Recharge | AED 7.50 |
| Maximum Recharge | AED 5,000 |
| Recharge Increments | AED 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 300, 500, 1,000 |
Keeping your Nol Card topped up ensures that you can travel without any interruptions. Many people prefer to recharge their cards in advance so they do not run out of balance unexpectedly.
Fees and Fares for the Gold Nol Card
The fares for the Gold Nol Card depend on the number of zones you travel through. Dubai’s public transport network is divided into seven zones, and the fare is deducted automatically when you tap your card at entry and exit points.
The table below shows the fare structure for Gold Class travel:
| Number of Zones Crossed | Gold Class Fare (AED) |
| 1 Zone | 6.00 |
| 2 Adjacent Zones | 10.00 |
| More than 2 Zones | 15.00 |
Many passengers who travel frequently choose to buy a monthly pass, which offers unlimited travel within specific zones. The monthly pass fees for Gold Class are:
| Zones Covered | Gold Class Monthly Pass Fee (AED) |
| 1 Zone | 190 |
| 2 Adjacent Zones | 320 |
| All Zones | 550 |
Aside from the fares, there are additional fees for certain services:
- Card Replacement (Lost/Damaged Card): AED 70
- Refund Processing Fee: AED 5
- Card Expiry Renewal Fee: Free if renewed before expiration
If you accidentally tap your Gold Nol Card in a regular cabin, the system will still deduct the Gold Class fare. You should always make sure to sit in the Gold Class section to get the benefits of the card.
Validity of the Gold Nol Card
The Gold Nol Card is valid for five years from the date of purchase. You can continue using it throughout this period, but once it expires, you must buy a new card or renew your existing one.
The card is valid across multiple modes of transport in Dubai, including:
- Dubai Metro: Gold Class cabins are available on both the Red and Green lines
- Dubai Tram: Gold Class sections are available for added comfort
- Dubai Bus: The card can be used, but there is no separate Gold Class section
- Water Bus: Accepted for travel payments
- RTA Parking: This can be used to pay for parking at RTA meters
If you travel frequently, it is important to check the expiry date of your Gold Nol Card to avoid any inconvenience.
How to Check Gold Nol Card Balance
Keeping track of your Nol Card balance ensures that you never run out of credit while traveling. There are several ways to check your balance:
- Nol Card Vending Machines: Available at metro stations and bus stops.
- RTA Website: Enter your Nol Card number on the official website to check your balance.
- Nol Pay Mobile App: Download the app to check your balance and recharge your card.
- Ticket Office Machines: Visit any RTA customer service center.
- SMS Inquiry: Send your Nol Card number via SMS to 511 (Etisalat/Du) to receive your balance details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my Silver Nol Card to a Gold Nol Card?
No, you cannot upgrade a Silver Nol Card. You must purchase a new Gold Nol Card separately.
What happens if I use my Gold Nol Card in a regular cabin?
Even if you sit in a regular cabin, the system will still deduct the Gold Class fare from your card. Always make sure to sit in the Gold Class section to get the full benefits of the card.
Can I use the Gold Nol Card to pay for taxis in Dubai?
No, Nol Cards cannot be used for taxi payments. They are only valid for metro, tram, buses, water buses, and RTA parking.
What should I do if I lose my Gold Nol Card?
If you lose your Gold Nol Card, report it immediately to an RTA customer service center. You will need to pay AED 70 for a replacement.
Can I refund my unused balance from my Gold Nol Card?
Yes, you can request a balance refund, but a processing fee of AED 5 will be deducted. The refund process can be completed at RTA service centers.
Conclusion
The Gold Nol Card is an excellent option for passengers who want a premium and comfortable travel experience in Dubai. With this card, you can travel in Gold Class cabins on the Dubai Metro and Tram, which offer spacious seating and a less crowded environment.
The card costs AED 25, and you can recharge it up to AED 5,000. The travel fares for Gold Class range from AED 6.00 to AED 15.00, depending on the number of zones traveled.
Frequent travelers can save money by purchasing a monthly pass, which costs between AED 190 and AED 550.
Since the Gold Nol Card is valid for five years, it provides long-term convenience for regular commuters. It is easy to recharge and can be used on multiple modes of transport. If you value comfort and do not mind paying a little extra for a better experience, the Gold Nol Card is the perfect choice.