Student NOL Card: Registration, Eligibility, and Price

Learn how the Student NOL Card offers discounted fares for students traveling in Dubai.

Public transportation plays a vital role in the daily lives of students, helping them commute between home, school, and other essential destinations. In Dubai, the NOL card is a convenient way to pay for public transport, including buses, the metro, and trams. 

To make travel affordable for students, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers a special Student NOL Card, providing discounted fares.

This article explores everything you need to know about the Student NOL Card, including registration, eligibility, and price. Whether you are a student in Dubai or a parent looking for cost-effective travel solutions for your child, this guide will help you understand the benefits of the Student NOL Card.

What is a Student NOL Card?

A Student NOL Card is a personalized smart card issued by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It allows students to travel at discounted fares across various public transport services in Dubai. 

The card is part of the NOL card system, which is used for seamless, contactless payments on Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, water buses, and some taxis.

The Student NOL Card is available in two types:

1. Blue Personalized NOL Card (Student Discount): This is issued to students and offers 50% off regular fares.
2. Student Pass (Monthly Subscription): A pass that allows unlimited travel for a fixed monthly fee.

This card makes public transport affordable and encourages students to use sustainable travel options instead of relying on private vehicles or expensive taxis.

Eligibility Criteria for a Student NOL Card

To apply for a Student NOL Card, students must meet certain eligibility requirements set by the RTA. These include:

Age Requirement

• Students must be between 5 and 23 years old.
• Children under 5 years can travel for free and do not need a card.

Residency Requirement

• The applicant must be a resident of the UAE.
• The card is not available to tourists or visitors.

Educational Institution Requirement

• The student must be enrolled in an educational institution in the UAE.
• The institution can be a school, college, or university.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents:

• A passport-size photograph.
• A copy of Emirates ID (front and back).
• A valid student ID card or a letter from the educational institution confirming enrollment.

These requirements ensure that the discount is only provided to genuine students who need financial relief for daily commuting.

How to Register for a Student NOL Card

Students can apply for the Student NOL Card online or offline. Below are the steps for both methods:

Online Application

Applying online is the most convenient method. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the RTA Website

• Go to the official RTA NOL website.
• Navigate to the Personalized NOL Card section.

Step 2: Fill in the Application Form

• Select Student Category.
• Enter personal details like name, Emirates ID number, and date of birth.
• Upload the required documents (student ID, Emirates ID, passport-size photo).

Step 3: Pay the Fees

• Pay the applicable registration and card issuance fee online.
• Payment can be made using a debit card, credit card, or other online payment methods.

Step 4: Receive the Card

• Once the application is approved, the card will be delivered by courier or can be collected from an RTA service center.

In-Person Application

Students who prefer to apply offline can visit the nearest RTA Customer Happiness Center.

Step 1: Visit an RTA Service Center

• Go to an RTA Customer Happiness Center or NOL Card sales office.

Step 2: Submit Documents

• Provide the required documents and a filled application form.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

• Make the payment at the service counter.

Step 4: Receive the Card

• The card will be issued within a few working days.

Applying online is usually faster, but visiting an RTA service center can be useful if you need assistance.

Price of the Student NOL Card

The cost of the Student NOL Card varies based on the type of card and subscription plan chosen.

Student NOL Card Issuance Fee

• Initial Card Cost: AED 70 (includes AED 20 balance).
• Renewal Fee: AED 50 per year.

Student Fare Discounts (Pay-as-you-go)

With a Student NOL Card, fares are 50% lower than regular fares:

Travel Zone	Regular Fare	Student Fare (50% Discount)
1 Zone	AED 3	AED 1.50
2 Zones	AED 5	AED 2.50
3+ Zones	AED 7.50	AED 3.75

Student Monthly Pass (Unlimited Travel)

Students can also opt for a monthly pass for unlimited travel.

Travel Zone	Monthly Pass Cost
1 Zone	AED 100
2 Zones	AED 170
All Zones	AED 230

A monthly pass is ideal for students who frequently travel across multiple zones.

Benefits of the Student NOL Card

Getting a Student NOL Card comes with several advantages:

1. Significant Cost Savings: Students get 50% discounts, making daily commuting much more affordable.
2. Convenient & Contactless: The card allows easy tap-in and tap-out access across all RTA transportation.
3. Unlimited Travel Option: The monthly pass offers unlimited rides for students who commute frequently.
4. Wide Transport Coverage: The card works on Dubai Metro, Tram, public buses, water buses, and some taxis.
5. Encourages Sustainable Travel: Promotes the use of public transport, reducing traffic congestion and pollution.

With these benefits, students can travel stress-free while saving money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The Student NOL Card is an excellent way for students in Dubai to enjoy affordable and hassle-free public transportation. With discounted fares, unlimited travel options, and easy registration, it is a must-have for students who rely on public transport.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, students can apply, register, and start saving money on their daily commutes. Whether you opt for the pay-as-you-go model or a monthly pass, the Student NOL Card makes travel cost-effective, efficient, and sustainable.