From August 17, 2024, Dubai Metro commuters topping up their nol cards at station ticket offices must load a minimum of AED 50 — double the previous AED 20 minimum. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) introduced the change as part of its push to drive digital adoption and reduce physical transactions across the public transport network.
New nol Card Top-Up Minimum at Metro Ticket Offices
The nol card top-up minimum at Dubai Metro ticket vending machines has jumped from AED 20 to AED 50. The RTA confirmed the change applies specifically to ticket offices inside Metro stations. Commuters who prefer to top up in smaller amounts will need to switch to one of the available digital options.
The RTA also raised the minimum required balance on nol cards to AED 15, up from AED 7.50.
Digital Alternatives Remain Flexible
Passengers are not limited to ticket offices. The RTA has made clear that its digital platforms accept top-ups of any amount, with no minimum:
- nol Pay app — top up directly from a smartphone - RTA website — recharge online at any time - RTA Dubai app — plan trips and manage the card balance in one place - ENOC/EPPCO petrol station machines — a convenient physical alternative to Metro ticket offices
In a statement, the RTA told commuters: "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."
Why the RTA Is Pushing Cashless Payments
The new AED 50 minimum is part of a deliberate strategy to shift commuters toward cashless transactions. The RTA has been working to reduce physical contact points within the public transport system, aligning with Dubai's broader smart-city digitisation agenda.
By steering passengers toward app-based and web-based top-ups, the authority aims to cut queues at ticket windows, lower operational overhead, and give commuters greater flexibility over how and when they manage their nol card balance.
The initiative reflects Dubai's ongoing drive to make public transport faster, more efficient, and fully integrated with the emirate's digital infrastructure.
