With over five million active users, the Nol Card is now fully integrated into Dubai’s mobility practices. Its popularity has prompted Etihad Rail to adopt it within its ticketing system. A significant step towards enriching the traveler experience. This is the result of a strategic collaboration between the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Etihad Rail…
Nol Card, the keystone of the ticketing system
Concluded on the sidelines of the World Government Summit in 2024, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between RTA and Etihad Rail marks the beginning of a new era. This transition aligns entirely with the ambitions of the Emirates’ digital strategy. Namely, to promote digital transformation and facilitate travel across their extensive railway network across the emirate territory. To achieve this, the Nol Card will be positioned as one of the “various options considered for booking and paying for travel”. A conclusion that echoes its success, with over 30 million units sold since its launch in 2009.
The ultimate goal is to offer integrated, user-friendly, and efficient digital services.
SHEIKH MAKTOUM BIN MOHAMMED, DEPUTY RULER OF DUBAI, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER, AND MINISTER OF FINANCE
Smarter and more secure mobility
To secure payments through innovative technologies, this transition will also include facial recognition and other biometric data. According to the Chairman of Etihad Rail, the operator will leverage RTA’s expertise in deploying smart solutions. A statement that perfectly aligns with the ambitions of the memorandum of understanding (MOU). An agreement that aims to promote contactless payment while ensuring the security of transactions.
This memorandum of understanding will foster integration between federal and local entities. It is an important step towards introducing ticket booking and payment systems, which will be available to Etihad Rail passengers across the United Arab Emirates.
SHEIKH THEYAB BIN MOHAMMED, CHAIRMAN OF ETIHAD RAIL
Currently, officials have not yet announced a launch date. However, we already know that this railway service will connect 11 cities in the United Arab Emirates. Trains will be able to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h and efficiently connect these cities from Al Sila to Fujairah. Finally, by 2030, this network aims to accommodate more than 36.5 million passengers annually…
