Whether you use the Metro, Tram, Bus, or any other RTA public transport service, keeping track of your NOL card balance is essential to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel across Dubai.
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Running out of balance unexpectedly can disrupt your journey, making it crucial to stay updated on your available credit. If you're wondering how to check NOL card balance in mobile, there are multiple convenient methods available. You can perform an NOL card balance check with number, access it online through the RTA website, use the RTA mobile app, or even check it offline at metro kiosks and ticket vending machines.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process on how to check my NOL card balance online, explore different verification methods, and provide the best tips to keep your balance in check for a seamless commuting experience in 2024.
How to Check NOL Card Balance Online (via RTA Website)
Checking your NOL card balance online through the official RTA website is one of the easiest and most convenient methods. This allows you to check your balance from anywhere, ensuring you always have sufficient funds before your next trip.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking NOL Card Balance on the RTA Website
Visit the Official RTA Website
Open your preferred web browser and go to the RTA website.
Locate the 'Check NOL Balance' Section
Navigate to the Public Transport tab.
Click on "Check NOL Balance."
Enter Your NOL Card ID
Find the 14-digit NOL Tag ID located at the back of your card.
Enter this number into the designated input field.
Click the ‘Search’ Button
Press the Search button to retrieve your balance details.
View Your Balance Details
Your screen will display:* Current balance* Pending credit (if applicable)* Card expiry date
Tip: If you have pending credit, activate it by tapping your NOL card at a metro gate, bus stop top-up machine, or public parking meter.
How to Check NOL Card Balance via SMS
If you don’t have internet access, you can use the SMS service to check your NOL card balance from your mobile phone. This method is quick, straightforward, and works on all mobile networks in the UAE.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking NOL Balance via SMS
Open Your Messaging App
Start a new SMS on your mobile device.
Enter Your NOL Card ID
In the message body, type your 14-digit NOL card tag ID (found on the back of your card).
Send the SMS to 511
Send the message to 511, which is RTA’s official balance inquiry number.
Receive Your Balance Details
You will receive a reply SMS containing:* Current NOL card balance* Pending credits (if any)* Card validity and expiry date
For Future Inquiries
Once your mobile number is registered with RTA, you can simply send "BAL" to 511 at any time to receive your updated NOL balance instantly.
This method is particularly useful when you're on the go and need to check your NOL balance without accessing the internet.
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Checking NOL Card Balance via RTA Mobile App
The RTA Dubai app provides a seamless way to check your NOL card balance directly from your smartphone. This method is efficient, offering real-time balance updates along with additional features such as transaction history and top-up options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking NOL Balance via the RTA App
Download the RTA App
Get the RTA Dubai App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Log In or Register
If you’re a new user, create an account using your details.
If you already have an account, sign in using your login details.
Navigate to the NOL Card Section
Once logged in, go to ‘My Account’ and select ‘NOL Balance’.
Enter Your NOL Card ID
Input your 14-digit NOL Tag ID to retrieve your current balance.
Check Your Balance & Transaction History
View the following details:* Current NOL card balance* Pending credits (if any)* Transaction history, including past trips and top-ups
Using the RTA Dubai app not only helps you check your NOL card balance but also provides an option to recharge your card, track recent transactions, and manage multiple cards from one platform.
Checking NOL Card Balance via Metro Station Kiosks
If you’re near a Dubai Metro station, you can quickly check your NOL card balance at self-service kiosks or ticket vending machines. These machines provide instant balance updates and allow you to top up your card if needed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking NOL Balance at Metro Stations
Locate a Ticket Vending Machine
Find a self-service kiosk or ticket vending machine at the metro station.
Tap Your NOL Card on the Reader
Place your NOL card on the designated card reader area of the machine.
View Your Balance on the Screen
The screen will instantly display your:* Current NOL card balance* Last transaction details* Card expiration date
Recharge Your Card (Optional)
If your balance is low, you can top up your NOL card directly at the same machine using cash or a card.
How to Check NOL Card Balance with Number
If you prefer a quick and straightforward method using your NOL card number, you can check your balance through the RTA website by following these steps.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking NOL Balance with Number
Go to the RTA Website
Visit the official RTA website using any web browser.
Click on ‘Check NOL Balance’
Navigate to the NOL balance inquiry page under the Public Transport section.
Enter Your NOL Tag ID
Type the 10-digit or 14-digit ID found on the back of your NOL card.
Click ‘Search’
Press the Search button to retrieve your balance details.
View Your Balance Information
The website will display:* Current NOL card balance* Pending credits (if any)* Card expiration date
Alternative Methods to Check NOL Card Balance
Apart from online and mobile methods, there are several other ways to check your NOL card balance conveniently across Dubai.
RTA Customer Service Centers
Visit any RTA service center in Dubai for assistance.
Staff members can check your NOL card balance and provide other related services.
Retail Outlets
Some convenience stores and authorized retailers equipped with NOL card readers can check your balance.
These outlets may also offer top-up services.
Parking Meters
Insert your NOL card into a Dubai parking meter.
The screen will display your current balance before allowing payment for parking.
These methods provide offline alternatives for checking your NOL card balance, ensuring you always have access to your card details when needed.
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How to Get a Digital NOL Card in Dubai – Step-by-Step Guide
A Digital NOL Card allows you to use Dubai’s public transport system without needing a physical card. It can be stored on your smartphone and used to pay for metro, bus, tram, and parking services, offering a contactless, convenient, and secure travel experience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Digital NOL Card in Dubai
1. Download the RTA Dubai App
The first step to obtaining a Digital NOL Card is downloading the RTA Dubai App on your mobile device.
For Android users: Download the app from the Google Play Store.
For iOS users: Get the app from the Apple App Store.
Search for "RTA Dubai" and install the app.
2. Sign Up or Log In
If you are a new user, create an account by entering your details.
If you already have an account, log in using your credentials.
You may be required to verify your identity via email or mobile number OTP (One-Time Password).
3. Navigate to the Digital NOL Card Section
Once logged in, go to the NOL Services section in the app.
Select "Issue a Digital NOL Card."
4. Choose Your Digital NOL Card Type
The app will provide different NOL card types based on your needs. The available options include:
Silver Digital NOL Card – General use for metro, bus, tram, and parking.
Gold Digital NOL Card – Provides access to Gold Class cabins in the metro.
Personal Digital NOL Card – Linked to your Emirates ID, offering benefits such as refunds in case of loss.
Student, Senior Citizen, or People of Determination Digital NOL Card – Offers discounts for eligible users.
5. Complete the Application Process
Enter your personal details, including your name and Emirates ID (if required).
Select your preferred card type and proceed to payment.
6. Pay for Your Digital NOL Card
The cost of a Digital NOL Card varies based on the type you choose.
You can pay online using a credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay/Google Pay.
Once the payment is confirmed, your Digital NOL Card will be activated instantly.
7. Activate and Use Your Digital NOL Card
Your Digital NOL Card will be available within the RTA Dubai App.
To use it, open the app and scan the digital card at metro gates, bus validators, or parking meters.
Benefits of Using a Digital NOL Card
No Physical Card Required – Use your mobile phone to pay for transport.
Instant Top-Up – Recharge your card through the RTA app anytime.
Secure and Convenient – Your balance and transaction history are easily accessible.
Multiple Card Options – Choose a standard, gold, or personal card based on your needs.
By following these steps, you can seamlessly transition to a Digital NOL Card and enjoy hassle-free travel across Dubai’s public transport network.
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FAQs About Checking NOL Card Balance
Can I Check My NOL Card Balance Online?
Yes, you can check your NOL card balance online through the RTA website or the RTA Dubai mobile app.
How to Check NOL Card Balance Online
Visit the RTA Website: Open the official RTA website.
Go to ‘Check NOL Balance’: Navigate to the Public Transport section and select "Check NOL Balance."
Enter Your NOL Tag ID: Input your 14-digit NOL card number found on the back of your card.
Click ‘Search’: The system will display your current balance, pending credits, and card expiry date.
Alternatively, you can check via the RTA Dubai app by logging in, selecting the NOL card section, and entering your card details.
Can I Add My NOL Card to My Phone?
Yes, you can add a Digital NOL Card to your smartphone using the RTA Dubai app. However, physical NOL cards currently do not support NFC-based mobile wallet integration like Apple Pay or Google Wallet.
How to Get a Digital NOL Card on Your Phone
Download the RTA Dubai App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Log in or Register to create an account.
Go to ‘NOL Services’ and select "Issue a Digital NOL Card."
Choose Your Card Type: Select from Silver, Gold, Personal, or Special Discounted NOL cards.
Make a Payment: Complete the purchase using a credit or debit card.
Activate & Use the Card: Scan your digital NOL card at metro stations, bus stops, or parking meters directly from your phone.
How Do I Check My NFC Balance on My NOL Card?
Currently, NFC-based balance checks are not available for physical NOL cards. However, you can check your NOL card balance using the RTA Dubai app or official website by entering your 14-digit NOL tag ID.
For an alternative, some Android smartphones with NFC capabilities may allow users to scan their NOL card using specialized third-party transit apps, but this is not officially supported by RTA.
How Do I Check the Balance on My City Bus Card?
If you are using the Dubai city bus system, you can check your NOL card balance in multiple ways:
Via the RTA Website: Enter your NOL card tag ID on the Check NOL Balance page.
Using the RTA Dubai App: Log in, navigate to ‘My Account’ > ‘NOL Balance’, and view your balance.
At Bus Stops & Metro Stations: Use ticket vending machines to check your balance by tapping your card.
Via SMS: Send your NOL card tag ID to 511, and you’ll receive an SMS with your current balance.
What Is the Minimum Balance on a NOL Card?
The minimum balance required to use an NOL card depends on the transport mode:
Dubai Metro and Tram: Minimum balance of 7.50 AED is required to start a trip.
Buses and Water Buses: Minimum balance of 3 AED.
Public Parking: Balance requirements depend on parking fees.
If your balance falls below these thresholds, you must top up your NOL card before using public transport.
How to Activate Pending NOL Card Balance?
If you have a pending NOL card balance, you need to activate it manually.
Steps to Activate Pending Balance
Tap Your NOL Card at Any Metro Gate – Enter through a metro station gate to activate the balance.
Use a Bus Top-Up Machine – Tap your card at an RTA bus stop top-up machine.
Tap at a Parking Meter – Insert or tap your NOL card at an RTA public parking machine.
Use a Ticket Vending Machine – Visit any metro or bus station and place your card on the card reader.
Your pending balance should reflect in 45 minutes to 4 hours after activation.
How Long Is an NOL Card Valid For?
Silver and Gold NOL Cards: Valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.
Personalized NOL Cards: Valid for 5 years, linked to Emirates ID.
Student, Senior, and People of Determination Cards: Valid for 1 year, renewable with proof of eligibility.
To check your NOL card validity, visit a ticket vending machine at metro stations or parking meters.
How Do I Activate My NOL Card Online?
To activate a newly purchased NOL card, follow these steps:
Top Up Your Card Online
Visit the RTA website or use the RTA Dubai app.
Enter your NOL tag ID and recharge your card.
Wait for Processing
Online top-ups take 45 minutes to 4 hours to reflect in your account.
Activate the Balance
Tap your NOL card at a metro gate, bus validator, or parking meter to activate the balance.
How Do I Get Money from My NOL Card?
If you have unused balance on your NOL card and wish to request a refund, you must visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center.
Refund Process for NOL Cards
Visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center
Locations include Al Barsha, Al Kifaf, and Deira.
Provide Your NOL Card Details
Bring your NOL card and Emirates ID.
Submit a Refund Request
RTA will process the request and confirm eligibility.
Refunds are only applicable for Personalized NOL Cards or registered cards.
Receive Your Refund
The amount will be credited to your bank account or given as cash, depending on the case.
Refunds are not applicable for expired or damaged NOL cards.
How Do I Check If My NOL Card Is Valid?
You can check your NOL card’s validity by:
Using Ticket Vending Machines at metro stations.
Inserting Your NOL Card into parking meters.
Checking Online via the RTA website by entering your NOL tag ID.
If your card is expired, you will need to purchase a new NOL card.
Can I Recharge My NOL Card Online?
Yes, you can top up your NOL card online through:
The RTA Website: Enter your NOL tag ID and add funds using a credit or debit card.
The RTA Dubai App: Select ‘Recharge NOL Card’ and follow the payment process.
Online top-ups typically take 45 minutes to 4 hours to update on your NOL card.
How Much Does an NOL Card Cost in Dubai?
The cost of an NOL card varies based on the card type:
Red Ticket (Single-Use Card): 2 AED
Silver NOL Card: 25 AED (preloaded with 19 AED balance)
Gold NOL Card: 25 AED (preloaded with 19 AED balance, access to Gold Class cabins)
Personalized NOL Card: 30 AED (linked to Emirates ID)
Student, Senior Citizen, and People of Determination Cards: 70 AED (preloaded with 20 AED balance)
Each card is valid for up to 5 years, except for discounted student and senior cards, which must be renewed annually.
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