Starting in December 2026, students in Dubai will see their Nol cards transformed into a versatile payment tool capable of handling online transactions and purchases at retail outlets across the GCC. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has confirmed that these upgraded cards will mirror the functionality of standard Nol cards, allowing for instant top-ups, seamless profile management, and easy online renewals. Additionally, parents will gain the ability to oversee student accounts directly, streamlining the entire experience. This update builds upon the card’s longstanding popularity, which currently provides students under 23 with a 50 percent discount on public transport, a benefit that has remained a staple since the card’s launch in 2009.

Beyond transit, the RTA is modernizing the entire Nol ecosystem through account-based ticketing and integration with the UAE’s national payment schemes. Students can already leverage the Nol ISIC card for international discounts in over 130 countries, and the upcoming December changes will further expand this utility. As the system moves toward digital wallets, QR code ticketing, and broader retail acceptance, the Nol Student Card is evolving from a simple transit pass into a comprehensive digital wallet. Eligible students can continue to apply for their five-year cards through the RTA website or the Nol Pay app by providing their Emirates ID and proof of enrollment, ensuring they stay ahead in an increasingly cashless society.