Dubai Metro Upgrade: Soon You Can Pay with Your Smartphone

The project is already 40% complete and will replace the current card-based ticketing system with account-based ticketing (ABT) technology. This means nol cards will soon be linked to digital accounts, enabling users to top up, manage balances, and even purchase tickets through QR codes.

According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, the upgrade will introduce new-generation nol cards designed to integrate with banking card technology. The final phase will see the acceptance of alternative payment methods, including bank cards and digital wallets.

The transition is rolling out in phases, with full completion expected by Q3 2026. With a new metro line on the horizonand expanded services across the city, Dubai’s public transport is evolving faster than ever.