How to Apply for Student NOL Card in the UAE?

Q: Is the NOL card valid across all Emirates?

No the NOL card is primarily for Dubai’s public transport network managed by the RTA.

Q: Can international students apply for the NOL student card?

Yes international students with valid enrollment in UAE institutions are eligible.

Q: What if my application is rejected can I reapply?

Yes you can reapply after correcting the errors or updating documents.

Q: Does the student card work on all public transport modes?

Yes it works on metro, buses, tram, and water buses within Dubai.

Q: Can I upgrade from a student card to another NOL card later?

Yes you can switch card types through the RTA app or customer service once you’re no longer a student.

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Are you a student in the UAE trying to figure out how to manage your daily travel costs more efficiently? The Student NOL Card might be exactly what you need. Offered by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), this card gives students a 50% discount on public transport services like the metro, buses, trams, and water buses.

Whether you’re commuting to university, school, or college, this card helps you save time and money. But many students aren’t aware of the simple steps required to get one. Understanding how to apply for a Student NOL Card can make your travel experience in the UAE smoother and more affordable.

This guide explains everything from eligibility and required documents to where and how to apply using different platforms like the RTA website, mobile apps, and even your school. Start enjoying smarter student travel today.

What Is A Student NOL Card?

A Student NOL Card is a personalized transport card issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai. It allows eligible students to benefit from a 50 percent discount on all modes of public transport including the Dubai Metro, public buses, trams, and water buses.

The card is designed specifically for full-time students studying at accredited educational institutions in the UAE. It helps reduce daily commuting costs, especially for those who use public transport regularly. The Student NOL Card can be applied for online, through mobile apps, via schools, or even at metro and bus stations.

What Are The Eligibility Criteria For A Student NOL Card?

To qualify for a Student NOL Card, the applicant must meet the following conditions.

These criteria ensure that only eligible students receive the discounted benefits:

The applicant must be between the ages of 5 and 23
The student should be enrolled full-time at a recognized school, college, or university within the UAE
The card can be used only with the NOL Blue and Silver categories
NOL Gold Cards are not eligible for student discounts
Valid documents must be submitted with the application
The student must reside in the UAE at the time of application

The card is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed if the student continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

What Documents Do You Need To Apply For A Student NOL Card?

Applicants must prepare and upload specific documents during the application process. These documents verify identity and enrollment status. All files must be clear, valid, and within the required format and size.

Required documents include:

A scanned copy of the front and back of the Emirates ID
A recent passport-sized photograph with a white background
A valid school or university enrollment letter confirming full-time student status

Document submission guidelines:

File types accepted: PNG or JPEG
Maximum file size: 2 MB
Documents must be in Arabic or English

Failure to upload valid or legible documents may result in application rejection.

How Can You Apply For A Student NOL Card Online Via RTA Website?

The RTA website offers a structured and secure way for students to apply for an NOL card. The process is straightforward and can be completed within 15 to 20 minutes if all documents are ready.

Here are the steps to follow:

Visit the official RTA website and access the Personal NOL Card application page
Click on “Apply Now” to begin the process
Log in using your RTA credentials or UAE PASS
Allow the system to retrieve your name, date of birth, phone number, and email
Choose the option to apply for a new NOL card
Confirm or edit your primary mobile number and email
Enter an alternate mobile number if needed
Upload a personal photograph
Select the customer category as “Student”
Choose the type of card as “International Student ID Card”
Upload the enrollment letter from your school or university
Choose your preferred card design and NOL category
Provide your complete delivery address, including emirate, area, street, and house or apartment number
Carefully review all information before submitting
After submission, you will receive a reference number via SMS or email
Wait for the payment link and complete the payment to activate your card
Card delivery details will be sent to you once the payment is processed

The RTA website is compatible with both desktop and mobile browsers, allowing easy access from any device.

Can You Apply For A Student NOL Card Using The RTA App?

The RTA app is available for download on both Android and iOS devices. It offers a fast and mobile-friendly way to complete your application without needing to visit a website or physical location.

To apply using the RTA app, follow these steps:

Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Open the app and choose your preferred language
Log in with your UAE PASS or RTA username and password
Tap on “Apply for NOL Card”
Enter your personal details, including name, email, phone number, and date of birth
Select “Apply for a new personal NOL card”
Upload your profile photo
Choose the customer category as “Student” and select the appropriate card type and design
Upload your enrollment letter from a recognized school or university
Enter your full delivery address
Double-check all information before submitting
After submission, wait for your reference number via SMS or email
When you receive the payment link, follow the instructions to complete the payment
A confirmation message will notify you of card delivery details

The RTA app is user-friendly and ensures quick application tracking from within the app itself.

How To Apply For A Student NOL Card Via NOL Pay App?

The NOL Pay App is another option for students who prefer to manage the entire process through a dedicated transit card application. It offers similar functionality to the RTA app but focuses primarily on NOL card services.

Follow these steps to apply using the NOL Pay App:

Download the app from your respective app store
Open and log in using your UAE PASS credentials
Select the service for applying for a personal NOL card
Enter required details, including full name, date of birth, mobile number, and email address
Upload a passport-style personal photograph
Choose the customer category as “Student”
Select the type and design of your preferred NOL card
Upload the enrollment letter provided by your educational institution
Provide a complete delivery address
Confirm that all information is accurate and click “Submit.”
Wait for your application reference number
Complete the payment process using your debit or credit card
Receive confirmation of payment and delivery status via the app

The NOL Pay app is updated frequently and allows users to track card delivery and access card services like balance check and recharge.

Is It Possible To Apply Through Schools, Colleges, Or Universities?

Some institutions in the UAE offer the ability for students to apply for an NOL card directly through their school or college administration. This is particularly useful for younger students or those not comfortable with online processes.

The procedure generally involves:

Submit a copy of your Emirates ID and enrollment proof to the institution’s administrative department
The institution applies on behalf of the student via the RTA system
Once approved, the card is either delivered to the student or collected from a designated office

This method ensures accuracy and ease for students who may not have individual access to the required online platforms.

Can You Apply At Metro Or Bus Stations In The UAE?

Students who prefer face-to-face interaction or do not have internet access can apply for a Student NOL Card at designated metro and bus stations. RTA service counters are equipped to handle applications quickly.

Steps to apply in person:

Visit the nearest metro station or main bus terminal
Go to the RTA ticket counter or customer service desk
Present your Emirates ID and enrollment document
Fill out the required form with the help of the RTA staff
Make the payment at the counter
Receive confirmation and the estimated delivery timeline for your card

In-person applications are particularly beneficial for urgent card needs or when digital platforms are unavailable.

What Are The Different Types And Validity Periods Of Student NOL Cards?

The type of Student NOL Card issued depends on the applicant’s age. Each card has a set validity period. The card’s duration decreases with increasing age within the eligibility range.

Age Group	Card Type	Validity Period
Up to 14 years	NOL Blue Card	5 years
15 years	NOL Blue Card	4 years
16 years	NOL Blue Card	3 years
17 years	NOL Blue Card	2 years
18 to 23 years	NOL Blue Card	1 year

Students must renew their cards annually if they continue to be eligible.

What Are The Benefits Of The Student NOL Card?

The Student NOL Card provides students with cost savings and access to Dubai’s extensive public transport system.

Below are some of the key benefits:

50 percent discount on all public transportation operated by the RTA
Valid for Dubai Metro, buses, tram, and water buses
Option to select from daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly passes
Earn NOL Plus loyalty points with every transaction
Enhanced convenience with both physical and digital card options

These features make the Student NOL Card an essential tool for students commuting regularly across the city.

How Can You Track Your Student NOL Card Application?

After applying, students can monitor the status of their application through the RTA’s tracking system. This helps ensure timely delivery and lets users know if additional information is needed.

Steps to track your application:

Go to the “Track Your Personal Card Application” section on the RTA website
Enter your 19-digit reference number
Click “Next” to view the status of your card
Updates will include approval, payment pending, or delivery status

Students are advised to keep their reference number safe and accessible until they receive their card.

How Much Does A Student NOL Card Cost?

The cost of a Student NOL Card depends on the duration and the number of transport zones covered. Students can select from weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annual options.

The table below outlines the pricing structure:

Duration	1 Zone (AED)	2 Zones (AED)	All Zones (AED)
7 Days	25	40	55
30 Days	70	115	175
90 Days	165	275	415
365 Days	530	885	1335

Payment is required after application approval. Students receive a payment link via SMS or email, and the card is processed for delivery upon successful payment.

What Are The Common Issues And Conditions You Should Know?

There are a few important terms and conditions that students should be aware of before applying for and using the Student NOL Card:

Cards must be renewed every year to maintain eligibility
Incorrect or expired documents will result in immediate rejection
Payment must be completed within 48 hours of receiving the approval message
If the card is lost or stolen, the user remains responsible for any misuse until the incident is reported to the RTA
Only Blue and Silver cards qualify for the student discount
Digital cards are delivered instantly, while physical cards are dispatched to the address provided during application

Understanding these conditions helps prevent delays or misuse and ensures that students make the most of their transport benefits.

Conclusion

Applying for a Student NOL Card in the UAE is a smart move for any student regularly using public transport. With a simple application process and significant cost savings, the card is an essential tool for navigating Dubai affordably.

Whether you apply online through the RTA website, use one of the mobile apps, or go through your school or nearest metro station, the process is accessible and streamlined.

As long as you meet the age and enrollment requirements and provide the correct documents, you can benefit from the 50% fare discount and other perks like NOL Plus rewards.

Remember to track your application, pay promptly once approved, and renew annually to keep enjoying the benefits. With this comprehensive guide, you now know how to apply for a Student NOL Card and take full advantage of Dubai’s reliable and student-friendly public transport system.