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Back-To-School: Students Can Get Discount Public Transport In The UAE; Here’s How

Students who use public transport frequently can qualify for discounted fares on the Dubai Metro, tram, buses, and bus passes.

by Anupriya Mishra
Back-To-School: Students Can Get Discount Public Transport In The UAE; Here’s How

As the students go back to school in a few days, preparations are underway to ensure everything takes place smoothly. Many students are dropped off by their parents or guardians in private vehicles, but there are several others who take public transport to travel to their educational institutions. Commuting with public transport options like the metro and buses is not only convenient but also cost-effective. But did you know that students are eligible for special discounts? Well, this is true and here’s how you can apply for one.

UAE Offers Discounted Public Transport For Students

As revealed in a report by the Gulf News, students who use public transport frequently can qualify for discounted fares on the Dubai Metro, tram, buses, and bus passes. These benefits have been designed in such a way that makes their daily commute all the more affordable across the country. However, in order to apply for the student transport card or pass, one needs proof of enrolment in a UAE school or college. For this, they are required to submit a student ID, an enrolment certificate, and a valid Emirates ID.

How To Apply For One In Dubai?

At this point, it’s worth noting that the Student nol Package is not just beneficial for public transport but has also collaborated with the International Student Identity Card Association. It offers savings globally! Besides the 50% discount on public transport fares, UAE students can also enjoy several offers, such as discounted shopping flights and more. To apply for a student nol card, one must have certain documents. Yes, these include:

  • A valid Emirates ID
  • A recent photograph with a white background
  • An enrolment letter or enrolment certificate

The student nol card is available to those who are aged between six and 23 and enrolled in schools or universities across the UAE. It costs AED70 for a personalised silver card.

Such Card Are Also Available In Abu Dhabi

public transport UAE dubai metro
Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/winhorse

So, students can take advantage of this discount and save on their daily journey, as a result, reduces the overall transportation cost. But this is not just limited to Dubai. Students in Abu Dhabi can save a lot of money if they purchase the annual public transport permit. This is the permit issued by AD Mobility and offers unlimited free travel within Abu Dhabi. In fact, this also includes the cities of Al Ain and Al Dhafra. However, it should be noted that intercity bus services are excluded.

For students who need a student permit, they must first apply for a Hafilat Personalised Card. This is available for students, seniors and people of determination. It is linked to the Emirates IDs and then offers subsidised transport rates. One can even transfer the balance in case the card is lost. Moreover, Sales and Recharge Machines allow people to purchase public transport permits, and it is conveniently located at bus stations, shopping malls, and supermarkets across the emirate. It should be noted that the student permit costs AED500 and is valid for a year.

Also Read: Egypt To Rename Borg El Arab International Airport As Alexandria International, Effective This September

Also Available In Ajman & Ras Al Khaimah

Similarly, in Ras Al Khaimah, students get 50% off on internal buses. And they can qualify for this by applying for the Silver Card, which is available for both university and school students. For this, they must present an Emirates ID and a student ID, both of which should be valid. These cards can be purchased at Al Hamra Bus Station. While in Ajman, students enjoy a discount of 30% on bus fares. They can apply for a student Masaar bus card, for which applications can be made online.

So, if you are a student who is looking for discounted ways to travel once the school session begins, make sure to apply for these benefits to save your precious dirhams.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/bloodua

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First Published: August 22, 2025 2:14 PM