Soon, you will no longer need to carry a Nol card, ticket, cash, or card to utilize public transportation in Dubai.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has unveiled its intention to implement facial recognition technology as a means of payment for public transportation fares. This groundbreaking announcement was made during the ongoing GITEX Global 2023 event, taking place at the prestigious Dubai World Trade Centre. RTA has introduced a range of innovative services that harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and metaverse technologies.
Without further ado, let us delve into the five remarkable online services that RTA plans to introduce in the near future.
1. Access your digital nol card on your phone
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to revolutionize the way we use nol cards by introducing digital versions for Samsung phones. This exciting development comes as part of the new ‘nol Pay’ app, which was previously only compatible with Huawei devices.
The ‘nol Pay’ app, available for Apple, Android, and Huawei devices, serves as the official platform for managing your nol card from RTA. With this app, you gain access to a range of convenient services:
- Easily check your nol card information, including balance and transaction history.
- Effortlessly top-up your nol card, ensuring you always have sufficient funds for your transportation needs.
- Enjoy the benefits of the ‘nol Plus’ loyalty program, which rewards you for your loyalty with exclusive perks and privileges.
- Discover the nearest merchant locations that accept payment through your nol card. It’s not just limited to public transportation; you can use your nol card to pay for various services.
- Make the most of your nol points by reviewing and redeeming them as top-up credits or discount shopping vouchers.
- Take control of all the cards linked to your account. Whether you need to block a card, report a lost one, or cancel an existing card, the app makes it simple and hassle-free.
With the introduction of digital nol cards for Samsung phones, RTA is making it easier than ever to manage your nol card and enjoy the convenience it offers. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or simply looking for a seamless payment solution, the ‘nol Pay’ app is your go-to platform. Download it today and experience a new level of efficiency and flexibility in your transportation journey.
2. Pay for your public transportation fares in Dubai with facial recognition
According to the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), a groundbreaking development is on the horizon for commuters in Dubai. Soon, they will have the convenience of making fare payments for Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, buses, taxis, and marine transport through the cutting-edge technology of facial recognition.
Gone will be the days of fumbling for tickets, nol cards, cash, or credit cards. Instead, commuters will be greeted by the installation of smart gates in the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, buses, and taxis. These gates will revolutionize the way we travel by registering users and recognizing their faces through advanced camera systems that analyze facial features in 3D. Once the user’s biometric data is successfully matched, the fare amount will be seamlessly deducted from their account.
While the exact date for the implementation of this groundbreaking service has yet to be announced, commuters can eagerly anticipate the day when their daily travel becomes even more effortless and efficient. The RTA’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology is a testament to their dedication to providing a seamless and enjoyable commuting experience for all.
3. Special taxi service for school children in Dubai
The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers a convenient and reliable service called ‘In Safe Hands’ for parents who need to arrange transportation for their children’s school runs in Dubai.
To avail of this service, simply download the DTC app from the Apple, Android, or Huawei app stores. Through the app, parents can easily book special taxis for their children’s daily, weekly, or monthly trips to and from school.
For added peace of mind, parents can also designate a guardian to accompany their children during the taxi ride. To ensure safety, children under the age of 13 must have a guardian present. The guardian’s Emirates ID details must be provided on the app and verified by the driver.
Convenience is further enhanced by the option to pay for the service fees online. Payments can be made using credit or debit cards or through the ‘Dubai Taxi’ wallet.
With the ‘In Safe Hands’ service, parents can rest assured that their children will be transported safely and reliably to school. The DTC app provides a user-friendly platform to easily book and manage these trips, making the entire process seamless and hassle-free.
4. Search for parking online in advance
Before heading out, you can conveniently check for available parking spaces near your destination using the ‘Dubai Drive’ app. Currently, the app offers the ‘Search for Parking’ online service, but the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has ambitious plans to enhance this service by incorporating the following features:
- Dedicated parking spaces for People of Determination
• Environmentally-friendly green parking for electric vehicles
• Convenient multi-storey parking options
• Additional car wash services
By utilizing the ‘Dubai Drive’ app, you can effortlessly locate suitable parking spots, ensuring a hassle-free experience while accommodating the diverse needs of individuals, promoting sustainability, and providing convenient amenities such as car wash services.
5. Transfer ownership of plate number online
RTA is introducing a new service during GITEX Global that will revolutionize the process of transferring ownership of vehicle number plates. This service will be available through the user-friendly ‘Dubai Drive’ app.
With the ‘Dubai Drive’ app, customers can now effortlessly complete the selling procedures using their UAE Pass app, eliminating the need to physically visit any of RTA’s service centers. This convenient feature saves valuable time and effort for vehicle owners.
The service allows customers to finalize the transaction securely through the smart app. They can complete the necessary sales procedures and even sign the sales contract using the e-signature feature. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience for both buyers and sellers.
If you are planning to sell your vehicle, you can now easily conduct the entire process online using the ‘Dubai Drive’ app. However, it is important to note that you will still need to visit a service center to hand over the number plate to RTA in order to complete the process.
This innovative service not only streamlines the ownership transfer process but also enhances the overall customer experience. With the ‘Dubai Drive’ app, RTA continues to prioritize convenience and efficiency for its valued customers.
Also Read: How to upgrade your Silver Nol card and save on public transportation in Dubai