Blue NOL Card: Also called the Personal NOL Card, this is a personalized smart card which may be purchased from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai. This card, aimed at specific groups, such as students, elderly and persons with disabilities /special needs users designed for offering several accessibility advantages including fare rebates, and also round-the-clock safety hardware.
What Is the Blue NOL Card?
Blue NOL Card– This type of Nol card is ideal for regular travelers residing in Dubai, offering a personalized and safer travel experience. While the standard Silver or Gold NOL card are analog cards, the Blue Card is recorded against the holder’s identity and balance can be retrieved if the card is lost or stolen.
Eligibility Criteria
The Blue NOL Card is available in several categories, each with specific eligibility requirements:
- Regular: Open to all individuals without any specific eligibility criteria.
- Students: Available for students aged 5 to 23 years, requiring a valid student ID for application.
- Senior Citizens: Designed for individuals aged 60 and above, offering discounted fares.
- People of Determination: Catered to individuals with special needs, providing additional support and benefits.
Key Features and Benefits
- Fare Concessions: Eligible categories such as students and senior citizens receive a 50% discount on public transport fares. Dubai Insights
- Balance Security: In case of loss or theft, the card’s balance can be recovered, ensuring financial security for the user.
- High Balance Capacity: The card can be loaded with up to AED 5,000, accommodating extensive travel needs.
- Versatility: Valid across all modes of public transport in Dubai, including metro, buses, trams, and water buses.
- Personalization: Features the cardholder’s photo and personal details, enhancing security and preventing misuse.
Application Process
Applying for the Blue NOL Card is a straightforward process:
- Online Application:
- Visit the RTA website.
- Select the “Apply for a Personal NOL Card” option.
- Choose the appropriate category (Regular, Student, Senior Citizen, or People of Determination).
- Fill in personal details, including full name, date of birth, and contact information.
- Upload a recent passport-sized photograph and a copy of a valid Emirates ID.
- For Students and People of Determination, additional documents such as a student ID or Sanad card may be required.
- Review the application and proceed to payment.
- In-Person Application:
- Visit any RTA Customer Service Center or authorized sales agent.
- Complete the application form available at the center.
- Provide the necessary documents, including a recent photograph and valid identification.
- Pay the applicable fee to process the application.
Cost and Validity
- Cost: The Blue NOL Card is priced at AED 70, which includes an initial e-purse value of AED 20. Dubai Insights
- Validity: The card is valid for five years from the date of issuance.
Recharging the Blue NOL Card
Users can recharge their Blue NOL Card through various convenient methods:
- Online:
- Visit the RTA NOL top-up page.
- Enter the NOL tag ID and email address.
- Select the desired recharge amount and complete the payment using a credit or debit card.
- Mobile Applications:
- Use the NOL Pay app or S’hail app to top up the card.
- Log in, select the “Top Up NOL Card” option, and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Ticket Vending Machines:
- Available at all metro stations, these machines allow users to top up using cash or card.
- Tap the NOL card on the reader, select the “Top Up” option, enter the amount, and complete the payment.
- In-Store Recharge:
- Participating retail outlets such as ZOOM stores and ENOC/EPPCO petrol stations offer NOL card top-up services.
- Provide the NOL card to the cashier, specify the amount, and make the payment.
Additional Services
The Blue NOL Card extends its utility beyond public transportation:
- Parking Payments: Use the card to pay for parking fees at designated RTA parking zones.
- Retail Purchases: Accepted at over 2,000 shops across Dubai, allowing for small retail transactions.
- Access to Public Parks and Museums: Utilize the card for entry to select public parks and the Etihad Museum.
Conclusion
The Blue NOL Card offers a personalized and secure solution for navigating Dubai’s public transportation system. With its fare concessions, high balance capacity, and versatility, it caters to the diverse needs of students, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs. By providing a seamless and efficient travel experience, the Blue NOL Card stands as a valuable asset for daily commuters in Dubai.