UAE: RTA doubles minimum Nol card recharge at ticket offices
Violators will have to deal with a hefty fine if they are caught riding the bus or trains without enough balance on their Nol cards.
Dubai: Starting today, August 17, 2024, individuals will need to add at least AED 50 to their Nol cards when topping up at Metro station ticket offices, a significant jump from the previous AED 20 minimum.
Digital top-ups encouraged
The RTA has justified the decision by encouraging commuters to adopt digital methods for recharging their Nol cards. The authority has been promoting the use of its app, website, and Nol payment application for convenient and flexible top-ups.
“Make your journeys smoother on board [public transportation] with our digital services,” the RTA stated in a post on X.“Recharge your Nol card from anywhere easily and with the balance you want through the Authority’s website, Nol payment application, or [RTA] application, to ensure your convenience and save your time,” it added.
Potential impact on riders
It's worth noting that the RTA has also increased the minimum required balance on Nol cards to AED 15, up from AED 7.50. Commuters caught riding public transport with insufficient funds face hefty fines.