Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced major new partnerships during GITEX GLOBAL 2025, taking another step toward realizing the city’s ambitious goal of becoming a completely cashless digital city. Through these collaborations, the Nol card Dubai will soon evolve into a versatile payment solution extending its use beyond transportation into shopping, dining, education, and parking services.
Expanding the Nol Card Ecosystem in Dubai
In a move aligned with Dubai’s smart city strategy, RTA has signed key agreements with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Parkin PJSC, and PayPal. These partnerships aim to elevate the Nol card’s utility, positioning it as an all-in-one payment tool that simplifies daily life for residents and visitors alike.
Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of KHDA’s Policies, Research, and Programs Sector, highlighted the collaborative vision behind this initiative:
“We are truly pleased to collaborate with KHDA, GTS Alive Middle East, Parkin, and PayPal. These esteemed entities will work with RTA to develop the Nol ecosystem with the aim of enhancing the services provided to the public across all segments of society.”
Introducing the ‘Study in Dubai Nol ISIC’ Card
One of the most notable outcomes of this initiative is the launch of the ‘Study in Dubai Nol ISIC’ card — a unique product designed specifically for higher education students. The card will serve as both a student ID and a multifunctional payment solution, giving users access to Dubai’s public transport system and offering lifestyle discounts across the city.
This partnership supports Dubai’s higher education agenda, driven by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the Education 33 strategy, both of which emphasize innovation and student well-being.
Dr. Saeed added:
“The ‘Study in Dubai Nol ISIC’ card will enhance the overall student experience by offering lifestyle benefits and discounts across a wide range of services and experiences.”
Smarter Parking and Digital Payment Solutions
RTA’s partnership with Parkin PJSC will soon allow drivers to pay for parking directly using their Nol cards, creating seamless integration between transport and parking services.
Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali, CEO of Parkin, stated:
“This partnership enhances interoperability between the digital payment systems of Nol and Parkin, providing customers with new and diverse payment options. It marks a pivotal step toward developing smart, comprehensive, and sustainable services that cater to everyone in Dubai.”
Meanwhile, RTA’s collaboration with PayPal will simplify digital payments in Dubai, enabling users to top up their Nol cards faster and more securely.
Otto Williams, Senior Vice President and Regional Head for PayPal Middle East and Africa, emphasized:
“Our partnership with RTA reflects our shared vision for seamless, digital-first mobility driven by trust, efficiency, and innovation. Together, we’re helping shape a future where Dubai leads as a global hub for smart, connected cities.”
Dubai’s Cashless Vision Becomes Reality
As Dubai continues to integrate services across sectors, initiatives like the expanded Nol card ecosystem reinforce its status as a global leader in smart and digital transformation. By merging transportation, education, retail, and public services into one unified platform, Dubai’s cashless city vision is quickly becoming a reality offering residents and visitors a seamless, secure, and sustainable urban experience.
