Visitor Ticket Guide 2026

    Red Nol Ticket

    The flexible paper ticket for short stays. Get your 1-Day unlimited pass and explore Dubai’s landmarks with ease.

    Tourist Friendly

    Ideal for short-term visitors; a simple paper ticket for Metro, Tram, and Buses.

    Day Pass 2026

    AED 20 for Regular or AED 40 for Gold Class unlimited 1-day travel.

    Entry Cost

    AED 2 ticket issuance fee plus the fare for your selected trips or pass.

    90-Day Validity

    Expires after 90 days or after 10 single journeys / 5 daily passes are used.

    No Reloading

    Not a rechargeable smart card like Silver or Gold; limited to paper ticket rules.

    What is the Red Nol Card (Red Ticket)?

    The Red Nol Card, also known as the Red Ticket, is a paper-based travel card designed for tourists and short-term visitors to use Dubai’s public transport system, including the Metro, Tram, and RTA buses.

    It is a disposable contactless ticket, not a long-term rechargeable card. It can be loaded with pay-as-you-go trips or a one-day unlimited pass, making it suitable for both quick rides and full-day sightseeing in Dubai.

    Red Nol Cards cannot be used for RTA Taxis, marine transport (Abras), public parking, or retail purchases.

    Red Nol Card Dubai 2026: Day Pass & Prices

    Prices as of 2026 follow the RTA zone system. The 1-Day Pass is the most popular choice for tourists.

    ProductPrice (AED)
    Red Ticket Issuance FeeAED 2
    Single TripAED 4 – 8.50
    1-Day Pass (Regular)AED 20
    1-Day Pass (Gold Class)AED 40

    The 1-Day Pass allows unlimited travel on Metro, Tram, and RTA Buses until midnight on the day of activation.

    How to Get a Red Nol Card or 1‑Day Pass

    The Red Nol Card can be purchased from Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) or ticket offices at any Dubai Metro station. If you are arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB), you can buy one at Terminal 1 or 3 stations before heading into the city.

    Vending Machines

    Follow on-screen steps: Buy Red Ticket > Select Pass/Trip > Pay by cash or card.

    Ticket Offices

    Ask staff for a "Red Nol 1-Day Pass" for in-person assistance and zone advice.

    How to Use & Limitations

    Tap in and tap out at the electronic gates or validators. Unlike Silver or Gold cards, the Red Ticket can only be used for one mode of transport at a time if you buy single trips. However, the 1-Day Pass removes this restriction, allowing seamless switches between Metro, Tram, and Buses.

    Critical Limits to Note

    • • Valid for 90 days from the date of purchase.
    • • Max capacity: 10 single journeys or 5 daily passes.
    • • No balance protection; if lost, trips cannot be recovered.
    • • No taxi or retail payment capability.

    Red vs Silver vs Gold Nol Card

    Red Ticket

    1-3 Days

    Paper / Non-Rechargeable

    Silver Card

    Residents / Long Tours

    Plastic / 5-Year Validity

    Gold Card

    Premium Travel

    Plastic / Gold Class Access

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I use one Red Nol Card for my whole family?
    No. Each passenger needs their own red nol card because validators record one fare per person. Families should buy one ticket per rider.
    Can I upgrade my Red Nol Card to a Silver or Gold Nol Card later?
    RTA does not convert a paper red ticket into a plastic card. Buy a new silver or gold card, and use up any remaining red ticket trips first.
    Is the Red Nol Card valid from Dubai Airport Metro stations?
    Yes. The red nol card works at dubai metro station locations in DXB Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. You can buy it upon arrival from TVMs or staff counters.
    What happens if my Red Nol Card is lost or damaged?
    Because it is anonymous, remaining trips or day passes cannot be recovered. Keep it in a wallet away from water and bending.
    Does the Red Nol Card work with a daily pass on all zones?
    It can, if you buy the all-zones pass. When loading a day pass, confirm whether you need one zone, two adjacent zones, or all zones.

    FAQs