How UAE students can save on public transport: Discounts, passes, and more

Dubai: If you are a student in the UAE who frequently uses public transport, you could be eligible for special discounts on buses, Dubai Metro and Tram or special bus passes. These benefits aim to make commuting more affordable for students across the country.

To apply for a student transport card or pass, you will need to meet specific requirements, including providing proof of enrolment in a UAE school or college. This typically involves submitting a valid student ID, an enrolment certificate, and having a valid Emirates ID.

By taking advantage of these discounts, students can enjoy savings on their daily commutes, helping to reduce transport costs.

In Abu Dhabi, students can save money by purchasing an annual public transport permit. Issued by AD Mobility, the emirate's official transport authority, this permit provides unlimited free travel within Abu Dhabi, including the city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra (excluding intercity bus services).

To obtain the student permit, you must first apply for a Hafilat Personalised Card, available to students, seniors, and people of determination. This card is linked to the holder’s Emirates ID and offers subsidised transport rates, as well as the ability to transfer balances in the event of loss or damage.

Public transport permits can be purchased from Sales and Recharge Machines (TVMs) located at bus stations, shopping malls, and supermarkets in Abu Dhabi, as well as at Customer Happiness Centres at bus stations.

Cost: The student permit costs Dh500 and is valid for one year.

In Dubai, the student nol card provides not only public transport benefits but also serves as an international student discount card, offering savings globally. In addition to the 50 per cent discount on public transport fares, students in the UAE can enjoy access to thousands of offers, including discounts on shopping, flights, and more.

In 2024, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai introduced a ‘Student nol Package’ in collaboration with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) Association. The student nol card functions as a personalised international student ID, integrated with the nol system, and can also be used as a payment method at retail outlets across the UAE.

Cost: Dh70 for a personalised silver nol card (this includes Dh50 for the application fee and AED 20 as nol card credit) plus an additional Dh25 fee for ISIC registration.

Eligibility: The nol student card is available to students aged between six and 23 who are enrolled in schools or universities across the UAE.

How to apply: Students can apply for the student nol card through the nol Pay app. The following documents are required:

Students in Ajman can enjoy a 30% discount on bus fares with the student Masaar bus card. Applications for the card can be made online through the Ajman Transport Authority’s official website (ta.gov.ae) or at the central Al Musalla bus station on Sheikh Abdullah Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street. To obtain the card, students must provide proof of enrolment at a school or university in the UAE.

Cost: The card costs Dh25, of which Dh20 is credited to the card for use.

In Ras Al Khaimah, students can receive a 50 per cent discount on internal bus fares. However, this discount does not apply to intercity bus tickets.

To qualify, students must apply for the Silver Card, available to both university and school students. Required documents include a valid Emirates ID and student ID. The silver card can be purchased at the Al Hamra Bus Station, located in the Al Dhait area.

Cost: The silver card costs Dh20, with Dh10 credited to the card.