Dubai students can use Nol cards for online payments and GCC shopping from December 2026

Dubai students will be able to use their Nol cards for online payments and shopping across GCC outlets from December 2026, the RTA has announced. The upgraded card will offer instant top-ups, online renewals, profile management and parental account access. Students will continue to enjoy 50% discounts on Dubai public transport and retail benefits through the nol Plus loyalty programme.

Launched in 2009, shortly after the Dubai Metro began operations, the nol Student Card has seen strong uptake among students. The RTA has printed 43,800 cards since 2024, with 49,500 currently active.

The five most popular metro stations among nol Student Card users are:

- BurJuman

- Stadium

- Oud Metha

- Dubai Internet City

- City Centre Deira

UAE school and university students under 23 can apply for a nol Student Card through the RTA website or Nol Pay app by submitting their Emirates ID, photograph and a stamped student confirmation letter. The card costs Dh70 and is valid for five years.

Through its nol ISIC partnership, the card also provides access to international student benefits and discounts at participating brands in more than 130 countries, with savings of up to 70%, in addition to the 50% public transport discount.

The December upgrade is part of the RTA's broader efforts to modernise the nol system. Plans include digital accounts, QR-code ticketing and payments through bank cards and digital wallets.

The RTA is also introducing next-generation nol-Jaywan cards, combining public transport and national payment services, with a pilot launched in November 2026. These cards will offer more than 120 promotional deals and discounts.

With the latest upgrade, the nol Student Card will extend beyond public transport, allowing students to make online payments and shop at outlets across the GCC.