Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled major new plans to transform the nol card from a public transport pass into a multi-purpose payment tool for everyday life across Dubai.
The announcement came at GITEX GLOBAL 2025, where the RTA signed three agreements with key partners including Parkin, PayPal and Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
Agreements with Parkin and PayPal:
Currently used for metro, tram, bus, and water taxi rides, as well as the Palm Monorail, the nol card will soon let users pay for meals, parking lots, events, retail purchases, entertainment facilities and attractions across the city.
Even though the specific outlets or entities where this will become operative have not been disclosed yet, the agreements aim to reduce reliance on physical cash and paper tickets. It also aims to build a seamless, connected payment ecosystem that integrates with multiple services across the city.
RTA officials said the partnerships will enable institutions and businesses to link directly to the nol ecosystem, creating new convenience for residents and visitors.
Agreement with KHDA:
Among the initiatives planned in partnership with KHDA is a new student card, developed along with GTS Alive Middle East, called the 'Study in Dubai – nol ISIC' card for students. This nol card, which will be recognised and used by higher education institutions in Dubai, will offer students exclusive discounts and lifestyle benefits across a wide range of services and experiences, and is expected to enhance the overall student experience in Dubai.
This expansion of nol card could reshape how people pay and move around the city, making cashless, eco-friendly living a step closer to reality.