Latest news with #Nol
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
Dubai's Nol card explained: What it is, how it works, and why every visitor must have one
One card, endless rides, explore Dubai with ease using the Nol card/ Image Composite: Shutterstock,Canva TL;DR The Nol Card is a rechargeable smart card for all public transport in Dubai, Metro, buses, trams, and more. It helps you save money, avoid cash, and move easily across the city. For tourists, the Silver Nol Card is the most practical option. It's easy to get and covers all essential transport. Getting around a city you don't know can be stressful. In Dubai, it doesn't have to be. The Nol Card is the city's go-to travel pass. With one card, you can ride the Metro, hop on a bus, take a tram, or even use water transport. No need for paper tickets or fumbling for cash. Just tap the card, and you're good to go. Whether you're heading to the Burj Khalifa, shopping at the souks, or exploring the Marina, the Nol Card keeps your travel smooth and simple. It's cheap to get, easy to use, and works almost everywhere. In short: if you're visiting Dubai, you need this card. Here's how it works. What Is a Nol Card? The Nol Card is a smart card used for paying fares on Dubai's public transport. You tap it on a reader when you enter and exit buses, the Metro, trams, or water taxis. The system deducts the correct fare from your card automatically. It's not just for transport. You can also use it to pay for: RTA paid parking Select taxis Retail purchases at convenience stores Entry at places like the Etihad Museum In other words, it's more than a travel card, it's a travel partner. Benefits of Using a Nol Card Here's why it's worth having: Saves Money: Fares with the Nol Card are lower than buying paper tickets. If you're in Dubai for more than a day, it quickly pays off. Covers Everything: You can use it across, Dubai Metro , RTA buses, Dubai Tram, water buses, abras, and ferries, RTA taxis and paid parking zones Cash-Free Convenience: Top it up once, then just tap and go. No need to carry coins or keep buying tickets. Travel Bundles: You can buy weekly or monthly passes with unlimited rides if you're planning to stay longer. Extra Perks: Some Nol Cards give discounts at shops, cafes, and attractions around the city. Types of Nol Cards Dubai offers four main types of Nol Cards. Silver Nold Card: The Silver Nol Card is the most common one. It works across all public transport systems and is ideal for most users, including tourists. Gold Nol Card: The Gold Nol Card gives you access to the Gold Class Cabin on the Metro and tram. You'll pay double the fare, but the space and comfort might be worth it. Red Nol Card: For short-term visitors, the Red Ticket is an option. It's a disposable paper ticket for Metro and tram rides only. You can load it with a few trips or passes. Blue Nol Card: The Blue Nol Card, also called the Personal Card. It's only available to UAE residents and links to your Emirates ID. This card offers a 50% discount for eligible users like students, seniors, and people of determination. It can also be blocked and replaced if lost. What's the Best Nol Card for Tourists? The Silver Nol Card is the best pick for tourists. It's cheap to buy, AED 25 ($6.81 USD) with AED 19 ($5.17 USD) preloaded credit, works across all public transport, and is easy to recharge. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo There's also a combo version that includes a local SIM card. It gives you AED 19 ($5.17 USD) in fare balance, 2GB of mobile data, and 30 minutes of talk time (local and international). That makes it a good starter option when you land in Dubai. You can top it up with as little as AED 5 ($1.36 USD) at Metro stations and select bus stops. It can also be used to pay for parking and small store purchases. FAQs 1. Where can I buy a Nol Card? You can get one at any Metro station, bus stop ticket machine, RTA office, or even at Dubai Airport. 2. Can I share my Nol Card with others? Only the Red Ticket is shareable. The Silver, Gold, and Blue cards are for individual use. 3. What happens if I lose my card? If it's a Blue Nol Card, you can block and replace it. The other cards aren't linked to your ID, so you'll lose any remaining balance if the card is lost.
Listly
11-07-2025
- Listly
How to Travel Smart in Dubai? - Tips for a Seamless Stay in the City of Gold
REPORT Listly by Joanna James The city of sprawling golden deserts, ultra-modern architecture and mind-blowing extravagance, the UAE's glittering Dubai needs no introduction. From the world's tallest building to the tallest observation wheel and some of the largest shopping malls in the world, it is a destination that never fails to leave its visitors excited. However, how well you plan your trip can make or break your stay in the Gulf city. Here's a complete guide to making your trip to Dubai efficient and stress-free. Know the Best Time to Visit The majority opinion is that the best time to visit Dubai is from November through March, during the winter season when temperatures drop from scorching hot to pleasantly cool. However, it is also the high tourist season in the city, which means large crowds and peak prices. So, it is advisable that you make all your bookings well in advance. Plan and Book in Advance Dubai, unsurprisingly, is home to some of the most visited tourist attractions in the world. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the sprawling Dubai Mall and opulent Palm Jumeirah, you are absolutely spoilt for choice. So, make sure you book your tickets for popular spots in advance to avoid long queues or sold-out days. It is also worth keeping in mind that many attractions offer discounts for online bookings. Use Public Transport: Get a Nol Card Dubai has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. It is not only clean and safe but also affordable. The Metro, buses, and trams cover most parts of the city, making it easier to get around for everyone, including tourists. For those planning to stay longer in the city, it is worth getting a Nol Card — a smart card that can be used across all public transport modes in Dubai. It saves you both time and money compared to buying individual tickets. Respect Local Customs and Laws Despite being one of the most developed and futuristic holiday destinations in the world, Dubai is still very much deeply rooted in culturally conservative traditions and values. So, as responsible tourists, it is only right that you respect them. Being respectful and appreciative of local culture involves dressing modestly when out in public, avoiding public displays of affection and being mindful of local laws regarding alcohol, drugs, and general behaviour. Make Use of Ride-Hailing Apps While Dubai has an incredibly efficient public transport system and plenty of taxis, ride-hailing apps such as Careem (local Uber) and Uber itself are pretty popular among locals and tourists alike. They are known for their comfort, transparent pricing and especially for getting back home late at night and visiting places not well served by public transport. Explore Beyond the City While glittering skyscrapers and mind-blowing opulence may define Dubai for the average traveller, there's so much to be had beyond the urban glitz. Embark on an adventurous desert safari, a trip to the Hatta Mountains, or a dhow cruise along Dubai Creek and immerse yourself in the UAE's natural beauty and heritage — a side that many travellers to the Gulf city often overlook. After a day of fun and excitement, treat yourself to some much-needed relaxation, perhaps at one of the finest hotels near Dubai Media City; your options include La Suite Dubai Hotel and Apartments. Pack Accordingly Packing smart can make or break your holiday irrespective of your destination and Dubai is no exception. As a city known for its scorching heat, light, breathable clothes are what rule here. Sunglasses, swimwear, enough sunscreen and mosquito repellent are also unforgettable essentials.
Time Out Dubai
11-06-2025
- Time Out Dubai
This many people used Dubai public transport over Eid Al Adha
A public holiday in Dubai is always full of fun things to do, celebrations and special occasions that are some of the best in the world. And it's not just us that thinks so. In fact, 7.58 million people agreed, and all used public transport to get to their celebrations and over the long weekend. If you like this: UAE public holidays 2025: All the days off this year revealed According to figures released by the Road Transport Authority (RTA), a staggering 7,577,000 people used either public transport or taxis between Thursday June 5 to Sunday June 8. It seems more people than ever are making the most of all the incredible things the city has to see and do, as there was a 14 percent increase in the numbers since 2024. To really show you how many people were out hopping in Halas or swiping their Nol cards during Eid Al Adha, it's worth noting that on New Year's Eve 2024, the total number of passengers was 2.5 million. (Credit: Dubai Taxi Company) The number of metro passengers on both the red and green lines during the holiday reached 2,786,000, while the number of tram passengers reached 119,917. Out on the roads, public bus passengers reached 1,663,000, taxis carried 2,196,000, and shared transportation vehicles carried 504,159 passengers. Even marine transport was buzzing throughout the long weekend, with 307,684 people hopping on water taxis or abras. With such demand for public transport, it's no surprise that the latest metro line project is now well underway. Split into two routes, one spanning 21km and the other across 9km, the Blue Line will connect the north-east of the city with the existing Dubai Metro line and make it much easier and quicker to get around. It is scheduled to be completed by 2029, to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Dubai Metro, and will eventually reach around one million people. You can find all of the latest information on where all of the new stations will be and where the route will run here. In other Dubai news Mark your calendar: Dubai summer officially starts next week And the best things to do to stay cool A rare strawberry moon is visible from Dubai this week And this is how to see it DXB issues key travel advice ahead of summer Make sure you follow these tips
Time Out Dubai
10-06-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
4 game-changing Nol card perks you should seriously be using
If you live in Dubai, chances are you've got at least one Nol card lying around the house, or tucked inside your wallet. The payment card that gives you access to all of the city's public transport, there are a few different types to choose from. However, these tiny rectangles of plastic do more than just beep as you pass through the Dubai Metro gates. There's actually a range of benefits you can unlock just by picking one up. If you like this: Everything you can pay for with a nol card in Dubai With that in mind, here are four ways that your Nol card could make your life easier (and less expensive in some cases). 1) Paying for parking Not only does the Nol card allow you to zip about the city on public transport, but you can even use it to pay for parking. A benefit stated by the RTA, this can come in very handy if you've got no signal, or your parking payment text won't send. Simply find a parking meter, insert your Nol card and let the cost come off of your main balance. 2) You can use it to pay in restaurants Several outlets or stores accept payment via nol card and these include: 800 Degrees Pizza Burger King Carter's Cravia Gloria Jean's Coffee London Dairy Mister Baker Pavo's Pizza 3) You can redeem over 100 discounts If you opt for a Nol travel card, you'll have access to a huge range of offers, which include everything from restaurants to retail outlets and even hotels. Launched by the RTA in 2024, the Nol Tarhal card can be picked up at Dubai International Airport, Zoom stores and Yana Tour Travel and Tourism offices. Including brands from Emaar At the Top, Bab Al Qasr Hotel Restaurants, Dubai Ladies Club, Sharaf Retail and more, you're in for a treat (or constant treats) with this card. The card will cost you Dhs200 to buy, with the discount offers ranging between 10 and 50 percent. 4) You can recover your balance If you are eligible for the blue Nol card, you can recover your balance if your card is either lost or stolen. Valid for five years, the Nol personal (blue) card is available to students, people of determination (who are either residents or tourists) and senior citizens. Adding another layer of security to your card, if it goes missing your funds can be back with you in no time. Living in Dubai? Dubai confirms a Blue Line Metro station name And more details you need to know 5 must-know Emirates ID perks you should seriously be using A game-changer Indian passport holders just unlocked a new visa-free destination Summer holidays just got a huge upgrade
Khaleej Times
25-04-2025
- Khaleej Times
What makes Dubai the best city for female solo travellers?
Once seen as a bold move, solo travel—especially for women—has grown into a global movement grounded in independence, self-discovery, and the joy of exploring on your own terms. And as more women embrace the freedom of travelling alone, certain cities stand out for the way they prioritise safety, ease, and inclusivity. A new study by InsureMyTrip now confirms what many travellers already feel—Dubai ranks as the world's best destination for solo female travel, earning an impressive overall score of 7.71. As the city continues to gain recognition as a haven for women travelling on their own, we explore what makes it stand out. The study The study analyses several factors in categories such as safety, gender equality, walkability at night, and overall tourism appeal. It was conducted across 62 cities based on metrics across female safety and tourism to create a definitive list of the best cities for solo female travel. 'Each data point consists of the latest research available from reputable sources. The data was standardised using minmax normalisation. The minmax normalisation value is multiplied by 10 to create a score (between 1-10). A score of 10 is always the best result, while a score of 0 is the worst. Each city is then ranked on their overall average rating across all data points which includes both city-level data and one country-level data point,' says Sara Boisvert, director of marketing, InsureMyTrip. Dubai scored in the following categories in the study. TikTok popularity' (35.7M hashtags), 'feeling safe walking alone at night' (83.11/100), 'feeling safe despite gender' (86.23/100), 'quality of things to do' (4.58/5), 'women peace and security index' (0.868/1), 'hotel ratings' (4.26/5, 'quality of things to do' (4.58/5) and 'average cost per day' ($289). 'To accomplish this, we standardised the latest available data for each city in categories like safety, gender equality, walkability at night, and overall tourism appeal, to help solo female travellers make informed decisions,' adds Boisvert. Safety cues What works in Dubai's favour is that the city has a very low crime rate and is considered a safe place to travel as a woman, with most of the public transport in Dubai offering a 'women's only section'. Mumbai based Dr Surabhi Wani, founder, Suhi Healthcare, explains, 'during my trip, I visited several places and saved a lot on transportation by using only public transport — metro, tram, and buses, which made me feel like a true resident. I had purchased the Nol card on my first day itself, and it was incredibly useful since almost everything in the main city is connected by the metro. The people in Dubai were incredibly helpful and kind, and most spoke both English and Hindi, so language was never a barrier. Whether in malls, stores, or local markets, I felt completely welcomed. I never felt alone for even a moment.' Interestingly, before her trip, she had watched multiple vlogs and chose to wear comfortable and modest clothing. 'But honestly, Dubai exceeded my expectations in terms of safety and respect. No stares, no unsolicited attention, let alone anything inappropriate. I walked 12-15 kilometres almost every day, sometimes in areas where I was the only person around, yet I felt completely secure,' she adds. Vocal for local For those planning a solo trip to Dubai, embracing the local culture truly elevates the experience of your travel. Strolling through Dubai Creek and its traditional souks offers a glimpse into the city's historic past, while the vibrant food scene reflects its cosmopolitan mix. 'Traveling solo to Dubai was a transformative journey. The city's perfect balance of safety, culture, and modern comforts made it an incredible space for self-discovery and adventure. I'd highly recommend it to any solo traveller looking for a dynamic yet secure destination near to your homeland. The low crime rate and respectful environment provided a sense of security, even when venturing out at night was very easy and comfortable. While it's always prudent to remain aware of one's surroundings, Dubai's commitment to safety is reassuring for solo female travellers or any traveller,' says Tarana Lalchandani, a 28-year-old marketer in a Mumbai luxury hotel. In fact, connecting with locals can open doors to unexpected experiences as people are very friendly and helpful. Trade speak The city's world-class infrastructure, stringent law enforcement, and commitment to safety make it an attractive choice for those exploring independently. 'From an industry perspective, the travel and trade have seen a steady rise in solo travel bookings to Dubai over the past few years, particularly among young professionals and digital nomads. While exact numbers vary, solo traveller inquiries and bookings to Dubai have grown by approximately 20-25 per cent year-on-year, reflecting its appeal as a secure and well-connected destination,' says Karen Mulla, co-founder of TravelK. 'At India Assist, we have observed a notable increase in solo travellers heading to Dubai for both leisure and business over the past year. In line with our commitment to providing personal care and real-time support, we have launched UAE Assist — a service designed to offer on-ground assistance during unexpected moments. Our goal is to make solo travel even more secure and accessible through technology-driven traveller support across the region,' adds Harish Khatri, founder and MD at India Assist. First-time travellers If you are travelling solo for the first time, Dubai is the destination that makes it effortless, even though it may seem like a daunting task. Karishma Sakhrani, MasterChef India finalist, culinary consultant, and content creator says, 'Dubai is the safest city in the world—hands down! That's honestly the biggest reason I'd recommend it for solo travellers. Whether it's walking around at night, taking public transport, or just going about your day, you never have to think twice about safety. It's a huge relief, especially when you're travelling alone. Whether you are indulging in a luxurious spa day, exploring the desert, or dining at a buzzing restaurant, there's something for every kind of traveller. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to experience a place that is both exhilarating and welcoming.' Ira Arora, a Delhi-based PR professional, agrees, 'I loved the sense of independence. Long walks at La Mer were incredibly peaceful, giving me time to reflect and soak in the beauty of the city. I never once felt unsafe, and that gave me the confidence to truly enjoy being on my own. The cab drivers were kind, the city was easy to navigate, and I had the best 'me time' I could have asked for. When my flight took off, I was full of anxiety. But on the way back, all I felt was gratitude—gratitude for doing this for myself, for pushing past my hesitation, and for proving that I could.' Gender bender Interestingly, even men opine that the city has been their go to choice for solo travel and extol its virtues. Delhi based Anas Ali, UI/UX designer, who decided to travel alone says, 'I was astounded by how quick and easy the immigration procedure was as soon as I touched down. No lengthy lines, no pointless inspections — just a seamless arrival in one of the most opulent cities on Earth. The security system at The Dubai Mall, however, was the one item that really caught me off guard. I simply strolled in without being checked, unlike in India, where there are security checks at every entrance. Although it seemed unreal, it demonstrated how secure and well-run Dubai is.' Dubai is a city where modern luxury meets impeccable order. Whether it's the breathtaking skyline, the unmatched cleanliness, the respectful traffic culture it has something to appeal to everyone. 'I chose to go for a walk at two in the morning one night because I was a little bored. I noticed nothing except opulent automobiles driving silently down the streets as I walked along the sidewalk. It was a serene, dreamlike experience with no one around, no fear, and no anxieties,' adds Ali. A highly developed tourism ecosystem, with luxury and budget-friendly stays tailored for solo explorers, 24/7 surveillance in public spaces, ensuring a secure environment even at night and a mix of modern attractions, cultural experiences, and high safety standards, Dubai continues to be a top choice for solo travellers worldwide. So, here's another reason to say: Habibi, come to Dubai!
