A guide to Abu Dhabi’s weekly and monthly bus passes, costs, and where to buy them
Dubai: If you are a short-term visitor to Abu Dhabi or need to use public buses temporarily, the most cost-effective option is to get a seven-day or 30-day public transport pass from Abu Dhabi Mobility (AD Mobility), the emirate’s public transport authority. These weekly or monthly passes provide commuters with unlimited access to bus services within Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. However, they do not cover intercity bus trips.
How much does it cost?
Dh35 – Seven-day pass
Dh95 – 30-day pass
Requirements
To obtain a pass, you must have a Hafilat Smart Card. You can choose between an anonymous Hafilat Card or a personalised Hafilat Card.
Anonymous Hafilat Card: This is easy to obtain as it does not require any prerequisites. However, it does not support balance transfer in case of loss or damage unless linked to an Emirates ID. The card costs Dh10 and is valid for 16 years.
Personalised Hafilat Card: Designed for seniors, people of determination, and students, this card provides subsidised rates for these groups and is linked to the holder’s Emirates ID. It also allows balance transfer in case of loss or damage.
Where to purchase public transport passes?
You can buy public transport passes at the following locations:
Sales and recharge machines (TVM) – Find machine locations on the Darbi website: darbi.itc.gov.ae
Customer Happiness Offices at bus stations and Zayed International Airport
Additionally, you can purchase an anonymous Hafilat card at these locations:
Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society (SPAR)
Al Ain Cooperative Society
All branches of Lulu Hypermarket and Lulu Exchange in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra
You can also apply for both anonymous and personalised cards through the Hafilat website: hafilat.darb.ae
Subsidised rates for seniors and people of determination
A monthly pass is available at a subsidised rate of Dh80 for seniors and people of determination. To apply, individuals must present a valid Emirates ID at the nearest Customer Happiness Office at bus stations or the airport. After the initial application, subsidised public transport passes can be obtained from standard purchase locations.
This article was published on February 6, 2025 and has been updated since.
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