The Student NOL Card is one of the most valuable transport benefits available to students in the UAE. It offers discounted public transport fares, seamless mobility across Dubai, and—since recent upgrades—global student discounts through ISIC integration.

If you are a school, college, or university student wondering how to apply for a student nol card, which card type is best, or how to get the 50% fare discount, this guide provides the most accurate, updated, and complete explanation available.

Table of Contents

What Is a Student NOL Card?

The Student NOL Card is a personalised Blue (Personal) NOL Card issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for eligible students.

It allows discounted access to Dubai’s integrated public transport network, including:

Dubai Metro (Red Line & Green Line)
RTA Public Buses
Dubai Tram
Water Bus and Marine Transport

Since 2024, the Student NOL Card has been enhanced through a partnership between RTA and the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) Association, making it both:

A transport discount card, and
A globally recognised student ID with international benefits.

Who Is Eligible for a Student NOL Card?

To qualify for a student nol card, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age: 5 to 23 years
Enrollment Status: Full-time student in a recognised UAE school, college, or university
Nationality: UAE nationals and international students are eligible
Identification: Valid Emirates ID (or passport in limited cases)

Students enrolled in private schools, public universities, and international institutions within the UAE can apply.

Recommended: How to Get NOL Card

Documents Required for Student NOL Card Application

Before starting the application, prepare the following documents:

Document	Details
Emirates ID	Front and back copy
Recent Photograph	Passport-size, white background
Enrollment Letter	Issued by school/university (Arabic or English)
File Format	JPG or PNG, under 2MB

Ensuring document accuracy is critical. Incorrect or outdated documents are the most common reason for application rejection.

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How to Apply for a Student NOL Card (Step-by-Step)

You can apply through three official RTA channels. All methods result in the same personalised student card.

1. Apply via NOL Pay App (Recommended)

This is the fastest and most user-friendly option.

Steps:

Download the NOL Pay App
Log in using UAE Pass
Tap the “+” icon → Apply for Personalised NOL Card
Upload your photograph
Select Student as the customer category
Choose Silver or Gold travel class
Upload enrollment letter
Enter delivery address
Review and submit
Pay the application fee

You will receive a reference number to track your application.

2. Apply via RTA Website

Ideal for desktop users.

Process includes:

Login via UAE Pass
Select Apply for Personal NOL Card
Choose Student category
Upload documents
Submit and pay after approval

3. Apply via RTA Mobile App

Functionally similar to the website, suitable for users already using RTA services such as parking, Salik, or metro planning.

Recommended: NOL Card Balance Check

Student NOL Card Fees & Processing Time

Fees

Silver Personalised Student NOL Card: AED 70
- AED 50 application fee
- AED 20 preloaded NOL credit
ISIC Registration (Optional): AED 25

Processing Timeline

Application approval: ~5 working days
Card delivery: ~4 working days
Total time: ~10–15 days

Delivery is free across the UAE.

Key Benefits of the Student NOL Card

1. 50% Discount on Public Transport

Students receive half-price fares on:

Metro
Buses
Tram
Marine transport

2. Global Student Discounts (ISIC)

With ISIC integration, students gain access to:

Discounts in 130+ countries
Savings on flights, accommodation, dining, shopping
Up to 70% off selected brands

3. Payment & Daily Use Convenience

Works as a contactless payment card
Accepted at selected retail outlets
Can be used for school canteen payments (partner schools)

4. Digital + Physical Card Access

Digital NOL card available online immediately
Physical card delivered to your address

Common Problems & Practical Solutions

Application Rejected?

Ensure enrollment letter is current
Upload clear images (no scans of scans)
Match Emirates ID details exactly

Didn’t receive the payment link?

Check spam folder
Ensure mobile number is correct
Payment must be completed within 48 hours

Lost Student NOL Card?

Report immediately via RTA
The cardholder is responsible for usage within first 48 hours

Expert Tips & Best Practices

Apply before semester starts to avoid delays
Always use UAE Pass for faster verification
Keep minimum balance to avoid gate access issues
Renew annually to maintain student discount
For daily metro users, consider Silver class unless Gold is necessary

Minimum Balance Requirement

Minimum balance: AED 7.50
Entry will be denied if balance is insufficient
Always top up before long journeys

Renewal Process for Student NOL Card

Student discounts are valid for one year only.

Renewal steps:

Same online process
Updated enrollment letter required
No need for new Emirates ID upload unless expired

FAQs

Which NOL card is best for students?

The Personalised Blue (Student) NOL Card is the best option as it offers a 50% fare discount and ISIC benefits.

Can I buy a student NOL card online?

Yes. You can apply fully online via the NOL Pay App, RTA App, or RTA website.

Is bus free for students in Dubai?

No, but students receive a 50% discount on all RTA public transport fares.

What is the minimum balance on a student NOL card?

The minimum required balance is AED 7.50.

Final Thoughts

The Student NOL Card is more than just a transport card—it is a cost-saving mobility solution, a verified student ID, and a gateway to global discounts.

With a simple online application, fast delivery, and long-term financial benefits, it remains one of the most valuable student services in the UAE.

For students relying on Dubai Metro, buses, or daily commuting, applying early ensures maximum savings, uninterrupted travel, and global perks.

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Emila

Emila is a professional content writer and UAE resident for the past 6 years. Passionate about travel and local exploration, she specializes in creating in-depth guides on UAE destinations, the Dubai Metro, public buses, and practical tips for residents and tourists alike. Through her writing on thedubaiweb.com, Emila helps readers navigate the UAE with ease and confidence.