From August 17, 2024, Dubai Metro commuters using ticket vending machines on the Metro to top up their nol cards will have to load a minimum of fifty US dollars, or its equivalent in AED. The new rule has been instituted by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) as a way of achieving certain operational objectives and increasing patrons’ use of card payments.
In a tweet, the RTA noted that though the minimum top-up at ticketing offices of the Metro station has been raised, one is still free to top up using any amount using the following digital platforms. “Your #PublicTransport rides are now firmer with #RTA’s digital solutions,” the RTA told its clients and continued: “Top up your nol Card with any amount you desire in the nol Pay app, RTA website, or the RTA Dubai app to prepare your trip and gain time. ”
The adjustment is aimed at promoting the application of internet channels, so that the passengers could maintain the balance of their nol card more conveniently. The RTA is marketing its complete portfolio of the e-Top-Up Services which can accommodate digital amounts of less than AED 50.
nol Pay is an e-portal through which clients can use their mobile devices to pay fares, through the RTA website, RTA Dubai mobile application, and top up machines conveniently placed at metro stations and ENOC/EPPCO petrol stations. Both these options are convenient because they enable passengers to escape possible lines at ticket offices while at the same time enabling them to exert maximum control on their spendings.
The move is also part of the RTA’s recent efforts to optimise digitisation to reduce physical touchpoints within the public transport system and promote the adoption of all forms of cashless payment methods in the transport network. By the use of apps this can be done from the passenger’s smartphone and hence, they can be recharged to make their daily trips more comfortable.
This update is in line with Dubai’s journey toward attaining the status of a smart city, highlighting that the beautification of digital services in several sectors augments the experience of both the residents and visitors by increasing their ease when it comes to utilizing public transport.
