Dubai’s Nol Upgraded: Introducing Family Tickets
Nol, Dubai’s card-based ticketing system, will be upgraded to an account-based system incorporating central wallet technology, according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Requiring an investment of AED350 million, the project is a significant factor in the RTA’s Digital Strategy Roadmap 2023-2030 revealed in December 2023. The strategy is designed to establish RTA as a leader in global digital transformation, emphasizing efficient data utilization.
The aim is to develop a versatile digital infrastructure, providing a full 100% integration with mobility solutions.
The upgrade includes incorporating artificial intelligence in the form of facial recognition. The current system requiring a physical or a digital card will remain, with the addition of an option to create an account to link one or more cards. A digital payment system will be provided, utilizing centralized technology for transport fare wallets.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority stated that the upgrade contributes to leverage the public transport payment system in Dubai. It is a significant step in the direction of embracing the swift global advancements in digital payment solutions and fintech, which fits in with the government’s Cashless Dubai initiative.
He further mentioned that the upgraded system has various new features, such as trip planning, booking, and pre-payment options through smart channels. It offers packages including different services, along with providing family and group tickets.
He further mentioned that as far as electronic security goes, the upgraded system links all cards with individual accounts, as well as accounts for companies and multi-user entities. Privacy is ensured by this integration, enhancing the security of personal and customer data.
The account will provide data on account balances, travel history, pricing, and fare calculations, allowing users to fully manage their accounts and any potential issues that might occur, such as lost cards, according to RTA.
