Dubai to Launch New nol–Jaywan Cards for Metro, Taxis and Parking in November

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Al Etihad Payments have signed a strategic partnership to launch the next generation of nol cards with Jaywan, the UAE’s national payment scheme. The pilot begins this November, covering RTA’s public transport services, public and private transport including taxis, and public parking.

The new cards combine the nol transport system with Jaywan payments in a single card for everyday use across the UAE. Holders will use the nol system for travel and Jaywan for payments, with digital activation and use through Android and iOS smartphones.

What the card covers

The cards can also be used on public and private transport and through online booking platforms for public transport services across the UAE. The launch is part of RTA’s project to upgrade the nol system using account-based ticketing technology.

Cardholders also get more than 120 promotional offers and exclusive discounts. RTA has not given an exact start date for the pilot or a date for the wider rollout, and the announcement does not say whether existing nol cardholders will need to replace their cards.

“Our partnership with Al Etihad Payments reflects RTA’s approach to developing an integrated mobility system that puts customers at the heart of service design, combining ease of travel with efficient payments in a seamless digital experience. The next generation of nol–Jaywan cards marks a significant step in developing financial and technological solutions to support public transport and strengthen its link with everyday services.”

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA

“Integrating the national Jaywan payment scheme with nol cards is a significant leap towards unifying the UAE’s digital payments infrastructure. We are not merely introducing a new payment method; we are establishing a flexible and secure financial environment that connects key sectors and helps accelerate the transition towards a sustainable digital economy.”

His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor for Banking Operations and Support Services at the Central Bank of the UAE and Chairman of Al Etihad Payments

Acceptance will decide how far one card goes

The pilot is transport only, so the card’s wider promise rests on Jaywan acceptance growing beyond buses, taxis and parking. Retail payments, online booking platforms and everyday spending are the expansion, and the November pilot is the first test of whether one card can carry both.

The 120-plus offers give holders a reason to try it early. What will matter more is how quickly the wider rollout follows, and whether existing nol holders are moved across without friction.