How to Top Up Your RTA Nol Card in Dubai: Complete 2026 Guide

Dubai's public transport system is one of the most superior and convenient among all transport systems worldwide. The modern and privileged metro system and the extensive network of public buses and trams make it easy and budget-friendly to travel around the city with just a credibly charged Nol card.

The RTA Nol card is your travel wallet, which you utilize for metro rides, buses, trams, taxis, public parking, fuel stations, and even groceries. Therefore, you should always keep it recharged to have some peaceful rides. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is backed by various methods of top-up and digital or physical options that suit the daily needs and preferences of all commuters.

Thus, we are going to see all the ways you can read the Nol card through the 2026 guide. From the instant NFC recharges to the petrol stations, to even your neighborhood grocery store.

Reasons to Maintain Your Nol Card Balance

When you do not have enough balance on your Nol card, it can be a big problem for you. You will not be able to ride a metro or bus, find parking, or enjoy the public services in Dubai. For example, a round trip on the Dubai Metro requires you to have a minimum of:

• Dh15 for Silver Nol cards

• Dh30 for Gold Nol cards

A low amount left in your travel card can be a headache if you are in a hurry and need to reschedule your travel arrangements. Be aware of the different top-up options available and the one that is best for you.

Where and How to Top Up Your Nol Card

Ticket Vending Machines and Metro Counters

To all the metro stations in Dubai Metro, ticket vending machines and ticket counters are at the same time.

Here, you can see your Nol balance check, refund your old one, or recharge it with cash or card.

Since recent updates:

• The minimum top-up at vending machines is Dh20.

• At ticket office counters, the minimum recharge is Dh50.

These limits ensure the speed and effectiveness of daily operations.

Solar Top-Up Machines at Bus Stops

For those who are busy, solar-powered top-up machines are located at some RTA bus stops. They are cash only, and provide a quick way to refill while you are waiting for your ride.

Although they are not as available as the kiosks in Metro stations, you can find nearby machines through the RTA's website.

Top-Up at Local Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

Hundreds of RTA-authorized vendors, such as local groceries and mini-marts, allow Nol top-ups. These vendors provide the convenience of recharging your life close to home or work, particularly in case you are too far from a metro station.

To find your nearest vendor, refer to the contact page of the RTA and choose “Nol Top-Up Agents” from the list under the Nol Service Channels.

Petrol Stations: ENOC, EPPCO, and Zoom Stores

From 2022, it is possible to top up Nol cards at petrol stations and Zoom stores through RTA's partnership with ENOC and EPPCO. These locations are ideal if you are driving or stopping for gas and snacks.

The option has gained popularity due to the numerous petrol stations located on the city's main roads.

Online and App-Based Top-Up Methods

Nol Pay App – Instant, NFC-Based Recharge

The Nol Pay app is the easiest and fastest way to do so, especially if your phone has NFC (Near Field Communication).

Here's the procedure:

• Open the app and tap 'Top-Up Nol Card'

• Put your Nol card flat in the back of your phone (don’t move it)

• Select one of the recharge options: minimum Dh5, maximum Dh150

• Pay with credit/debit card and that’s it.

• Your card is topped up instantly

Huawei and Samsung users also have the option of downloading a virtual Nol card into their wallet and directly recharge it via the app.

RTA Official Website

Should you prefer a desktop or browser experience, you can top up through the RTA website.

Steps:

• Visit the Top Up Nol Card

• Enter your NOL Tag ID (10-digit number on your card) and an email

• You confirm the data and make payment with a credit or debit card.

Note that the top-up may take 45 minutes to 4 hours to reflect. To activate the recharge, you’ll need to tap your card at a Metro gate or parking meter.

RTA Dubai App

This app provides access to over 40 RTA services, including Nol recharge.

Usage:

• Download from your app store and log in using UAE Pass

• Scroll to Public Transportation Users → Tap 'Top Up.'

• Enter the Nol Tag ID, choose the amount, and complete payment via credit card or Apple/Samsung Pay

S'hail App – Public Transport Companion

S'hail, an app developed by RTA, is the one-stop app that provides Lista de Top Up Nol along with route planning and taxi booking.

To recharge:

• Click 'Top Up Nol card'

• Enter your Nol Tag ID and email

• Select the amount, pay with your card, and wait for confirmation.

This app can definitely help you if you plan your trips regularly by using the metro or buses.

Dubai Now App – Government Services Made Simple

Dubai Now is the platform that opens the door to over 170 government and private services.

Steps:

• Open the app and tap on 'Bills', then choose 'Nol'

• Enter your Nol Tag ID and desired amount

• Complete the transaction via credit/debit card

The recharge may take up to 4 hours to reflect, and you’ll need to tap your card at a reader for activation.

Mobile Banking Apps

Several major banks in the UAE, like Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, and ADCB, provide Nol card top-ups through:

• Mobile apps

• Internet banking portals

• ATMs

ADCB charges a Dh1 service fee for Nol top-up transactions. Besides, take note of the minimum recharge amount which is Dh20.

Careem App – Ride and Recharge

Even ride-hailing app Careem brings users the option to top-up their Nol cards.

Steps:

• Open the app → Go to 'All Services' → 'Bills and Recharges'

• Select 'Nol', enter your Tag ID, and select the top-up amount.

• Complete payment via card or Apple/Google/Samsung Pay.

This is a method for you if you are already using Careem for daily transportation.

How Long Does the Recharge Take?

If you have used the app or online methods, you can be required to tap your card at a metro gate, parking meter, or solar top-up machine to activate the balance.

Conclusion

Basically, the Nol card itself is beyond being just a public transport card — it's your hub into the whole Dubai transportation network and other lifestyle services. Now in 2026, there are many options for online and offline top-up, so you will never be far from a recharge point.

If you're short on time or prefer the convenience of your smartphone, Nol Pay App is available the fastest, NFC based instant recharge. Mobility Goers can depend on the RTA website or app to process transactions securely at trusted platforms.

Now you can travel smartly, save time, and explore Dubai with ease, as the Nol card is available at a bus stop, grocery store, or petrol station. These are the ways to keep your Nol card ready for use.