How to Transfer Balance from One NOL Card to Another
The NOL Card is a convenient and essential travel card for residents and visitors in Dubai. It is used for public transport, parking, and even shopping at select locations. If you have a remaining balance on an old or expired NOL Card, you might be wondering how to transfer it to a new card. Unfortunately, direct balance transfer between two NOL Cards is not possible. However, there are alternative solutions to utilize your remaining balance effectively. This guide will walk you through different methods to manage your NOL Card balance efficiently.
Can You Transfer Balance Between NOL Cards?
As of now, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) does not provide a direct option to transfer balance from one NOL Card to another. The balance is linked to the specific card and cannot be moved between cards manually. However, there are a few ways to ensure that your money is not wasted.
Alternative Ways to Utilize Your Remaining NOL Balance
1. Request a Refund for Your NOL Card Balance
If you have a significant balance left on your NOL Card and need to switch to a new one, applying for a refund is a practical option.
Steps to Request a Refund:
- Visit the nearest RTA Customer Service Center or Metro Station.
- Provide your old NOL Card and explain your request.
- Fill out the refund request form.
- The refund will be processed through the original payment method or as per RTA policies.
- It usually takes 14 working days for the refund to be processed.
2. Use Up the Remaining Balance Before Switching Cards
Before you move to a new NOL Card, try to use up the balance on your current card by:
- Paying for metro, bus, tram, and taxi rides.
- Using it for parking payments.
- Shopping at NOL Card-accepting retailers (e.g., Zoom stores, ENOC petrol stations, etc.).
3. Link Your NOL Card to Your RTA Account
If you have a personalized NOL Card (Blue Card), you can link it to your RTA account and manage transactions more effectively. This will not transfer the balance but helps in securing refunds or auto-reloading options.
4. Exchange an Expired Card for a New One
If your card is expired or damaged, you may be eligible for a replacement. You can request a new card while ensuring your balance is refunded.
Steps to Exchange an Expired/Damaged Card:
- Visit the RTA Customer Service Center.
- Submit your old NOL Card.
- Pay the required replacement fee.
- Get a new card with the refunded balance applied.
Can You Transfer an NOL Card Balance Online?
No, RTA does not currently support online balance transfers between NOL Cards. The only online options available are for checking balance and topping up the card.
How to Check Your NOL Card Balance
Before requesting a refund or utilizing your balance, it’s essential to check how much is left.
Ways to Check Your NOL Card Balance:
- Online via RTA Website:
- Visit www.rta.ae.
- Go to the NOL section and enter your card number.
- Your balance will be displayed.
- NOL Pay App:
- Download the NOL Pay App on Android or iOS.
- Enter your card number to check the balance.
- Metro Stations & Ticket Machines:
- Tap your card on a ticket machine to view the balance.
- SMS Service:
- Send an SMS with your NOL Card number to 511 and receive the balance details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I transfer my NOL Card balance to my bank account?
No, RTA does not support direct transfers from NOL Card to a bank account. However, refunds can be requested for valid reasons.
2. How long does it take to get a refund for my NOL Card?
Refunds typically take 14 working days after the request is processed.
3. Can I combine two NOL Cards into one?
No, you cannot merge balances from two different NOL Cards into a single card.
4. Can I transfer my NOL Card balance to someone else’s card?
No, balance transfers between different NOL Cards or users are not allowed.
Final Thoughts
While direct balance transfer between NOL Cards is not possible, you can still make the most out of your remaining balance by using it for travel, parking, or shopping. If you need to switch to a new NOL Card, requesting a refund or utilizing your balance beforehand is the best approach. Stay updated with RTA policies for any future changes regarding NOL Card balance management.
By following these steps, you can ensure your balance is not wasted and continue using Dubai’s public transport system efficiently.