Are you someone who uses public transport on a daily basis for your commute? If your answer is “yes,” then you will be pleased to know that the Dubai RTA has confirmed that soon, you will be able to pay for Dubai Metro through your smartphones. Yes, announcing an AED550 million system upgrade, here’s how it’s going to change the future of travel in the Emirates.
Dubai RTA Undertaking An AED550 Million System Upgrade
As shared by Dubai RTA, in a recent statement on social media, a transformative project is being undertaken. It’s already 40% complete and it will see the transition from the existing card-based ticketing system. This transition will be to a more advanced account-based ticketing technology that will allow people to pay for Dubai Metro through their smartphones. Yes, several advanced features and benefits for users will be introduced upon the upgradation of the nol system.
It will allow the users to link their cards to digital accounts. They will also be able to add nol cards to smartphone wallets, purchase tickets using QR code technology and account creation. This will be done through digital channels and a flexible fare concept will be implemented across public transport.
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These Upgrades Are To Be Made In A Phased Manner
To be introduced in three key phases, the first phase involves a central system upgrade. This will allow the users to create digital accounts that will link them to their existing nol cards. With the second phase, a new generation of nol cards will be introduced that will be compatible with banking card technologies. In the final phase, there will be acceptance of alternative payment methods. Yes, these will include banking cards and digital wallets.
So, once the upgrade is complete, you will be able to travel easily through the Dubai Metro. With easier payment methods, travel will also become smoother and much more seamless. In case you’re wondering about the completion, it is expected to happen by Q3 of 2026.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Images are for representative purposes only)
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