
The RTA bus card renders traveling in Dubai and Abu Dhabi extremely easy, convenient, and quick. Nevertheless, the most common question most commuters would be keen to answer is: How can I check the balance of my bus card? You may be either the resident as you take this daily ride or you may be the tourist who has taken a visit to the UAE, you must not forget that you need to check on your balance on Dubai or Abu Dhabi bus card just in case you get yourself in an awkward situation where you have lost your time in the bus station without the ticket.
To check your RTA bus card balance, we will give you step-by-step instructions to check the balance of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi cards and provide tips that you can use to manage your balance.
What is an RTA Bus Card?
RTA bus card is a smart card that is prepaid and which is used to pay the public transport in the UAE. It enables you to travel without cash, saves time, and commuting is much easier.
Dubai Bus Card (NOL Card)
- The NOL card is the official bus card in Dubai, which is used in the bus, the metro, and trams.
- Types of NOL cards:
- Red Card– Occasional users.
- Silver Card – To be used by frequent users having credit load options.
- Gold Card- To travel in a premium setting.
- Blue Card- Students and seniors, who pay discounted fares.
- Can be topped up online, via app, or at kiosks.
Abu Dhabi Bus Card
- There is a prepaid card available in Abu Dhabi to ride the public buses (also referred to as the Hafilat card).
- Easy access to all means of transport, such as buses and bus taxis.
- Rechargeable online, kiosk, and retail outlets.
How to Check Your Dubai Bus Card Balance
It is easy and fast to check your balance on the Dubai bus card. The following are the possible methods:
1. Using the RTA Dubai Mobile App
- Install the RTA Dubai application in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

- Register your NOL card in the application.
- Tap on “Check Balance” to view your current credit.
- You also have the option of keeping track of the recent trips, and auto top-up is convenient.
2. Via the RTA Website
- Go to the RTA Dubai website.

- Go to the NOL card services.

- Look at your balance by entering your NOL card number.
3. At Metro & Bus Stations
- Swipe your NOL card at any smart card reader on the bus terminals or the metro stations.
- New balance will be shown instantly.
Pro Tips for Dubai Users
- Auto top-up is strongly suggested for those who are always on the road.
- Register your NOL card online to retrieve it in case of loss.
- A balance check will help you eliminate unexpected expenses.
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How to Check Your Abu Dhabi Bus Card Balance
It is equally easy to check the balance in your bus card as an Abu Dhabi resident or a visitor. Here’s how:
1. Using the Abu Dhabi Public Transport App
- Install the Hafilat or Abu Dhabi Public Transport application.

- Register your bus card.
- Manage your account, including balance and transaction history, on your smartphone.
2. Via Abu Dhabi Transport Website
- Go to the Abu Dhabi official portal of public transport.
- Touch the bus card number to check your balance.
3. At Bus Stations or Kiosks
- Swipe your card at specially installed card readers at bus stations.
- The balance will be seen instantly.
4. Top-Up Options
- Online: Use apps or website portals.
- At kiosks: This is found in major bus stations.
- Authorized retail outlets & selected banks: Approved retail stores and a few banks: Appropriate to the average user, for regular users.
Why Checking Your Bus Card Balance is Important
Checking your bus card balance regularly ensures:
- You do not exhaust your purse on a tour.
- You will be able to organize your traveling without inconveniences.
- You are notified about top-up services before the expiry of the card.
- You do not incur any additional fee or penalty for a poor balance.
A quick check on an RTA bus card balance would save you a lot of trouble, even when you have to travel daily.
Tips to Manage Your Bus Card Balance Effectively
- Balance check: Even frequent travellers should see before they travel.
- Install auto top-up: Dubai NOL cards can have auto top-up to prevent the loss of a balance.
- Track spending: Use apps to monitor transactions and avoid unexpected charges.
- Card number secure: memorize or save a copy on the computer in case of loss.
- Plan top-ups: Don’t wait until your balance is low, especially before weekends or holidays.

FAQs About RTA Bus Card Balance Check
1. How Often Should I Check My Bus Card Balance?
It is advisable to ensure you check your bus card balance when you are going out to prevent buying more tickets than you have money. Frequent examinations will prevent unpleasant surprises while traveling.
2. Can I Check My Balance Offline?
Yes! The amount of money on your bus card can be checked online at:
- Bus stations
- Kiosks
- Card readers in metro stations.
These are the options that give immediate updates without the need of an internet connection.
3. What To Do in case the Bus card is lost or stolen?
If your bus card is lost or stolen:
- Dubai: Customer service, RTA at 800 9090.
- Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi transport assistance.
They can freeze your card and instruct you on the way to change the card without risks.
Will the same card be applicable in Dubai and Abu Dhabi buses?
No, Dubai operates on the NOL cards, and Abu Dhabi has its bus card system. Every city has to be provided with its card.
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Final Words
The simplest way to be sure of a hassle-free traveling within the borders of Dubai and Abu Dhabi is to keep track of your RTA bus card balance. Regardless of whether you use the RTA app, the RTA site, or the bus station kiosks, keeping track of your balance will ensure that you are not so late to work, your trips are better organized, and you can enjoy not having to worry about the bus while commuting.
Do not wait till you run out of cash in your pocket–check your balance of the Dubai or Abu Dhabi bus card today and travel anywhere in the UAE. Be smart, be ready, and make all journeys hassle-free by swiping your RTA bus card!

