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With the rising cost of living, every dirham saved counts, especially for students balancing tuition, textbooks, and daily expenses. Thankfully, the UAE provides a variety of discounted rates and specialised passes that lower students' transportation expenses. From unlimited free travel in Abu Dhabi to deep discounts in Dubai, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, here’s your ultimate Public transport guide to student savings.

Why Student Transport Discounts Matter

Budget Relief

Commuting daily can quickly eat into a student’s budget. A Dh500 annual permit in Abu Dhabi or a Dh70 one-off card in Dubai instantly switches hundreds of dirhams in fares into a fixed, predictable expense.

Encouraging Public Transit Use

Concessions make buses, the Metro, and trams more attractive than costly ride-hailing or car ownership.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Increased public transport ridership supports Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s sustainability goals. As part of ongoing UAE Transport updates, authorities continue refining these schemes to ensure students nationwide can access affordable, reliable travel.

Abu Dhabi: Unlimited Free Travel for Students 

What’s on Offer?

• Unlimited free travel across all intra-emirate bus services in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra (note: inter-city buses to other emirates are excluded).

• Issued by AD Mobility, this annual permit removes all per-ride costs, making it ideal for students living on the outskirts or commuting between campuses.

Eligibility and Application

• Hafilat Personalised Card: The first step is to apply for the Hafilat personal card. 

• Documents Needed: Valid student ID, enrolment certificate, and Emirates ID.

• Where to Apply:

• Ticket vending machines in supermarkets, shopping centers, and bus stops

• AD Mobility Customer Happiness Centres at major stations

Cost and Validity

• Dh500 per year, linked to your Emirates ID.

• Balance transfer feature protects your credit if the card is lost or damaged.

Dubai: Half-Price Transport and Exclusive Retail Deals

Student nol Card

Launched in 2024 by RTA in partnership with the ISIC Association, the Student nol Package doubles as your Metro/Bus/Tram pass and an international student ID.

Benefits

• 50% off the cost of any public transportation, including buses, trams, and metro.

• 70% discount on thousands of retail, dining, and travel offers both in the UAE and abroad.

How to Apply

• Download the nol Pay app and select “Student nol Card.”

• Upload:

1. 1. Enrolment letter or certificate

2. 2. Recent white-background photo

3. 3. Emirates ID scan

• Pay Dh70 (Dh50 application + Dh20 initial credit) + Dh25 for ISIC registration.

Eligibility

• Ages 6 to 23, enrolled in UAE schools or universities.

Ajman: 30% Discount on Bus Fares

Masaar Student Bus Card

Using the official Masaar card, students in Ajman can receive 30% off all intra-emirate bus journeys.

Application Process

• Visit the Ajman Transport Authority website (ta.gov.ae) or the principal bus station in Al Musalla. 

• IDs needed: 

• •. Valid student ID or enrolment certificate

• •. Emirates ID

• Pay Dh25, which includes Dh20 travel credit.

Ras Al Khaimah: Half-Price Bus Travel for Students

Ras Al Khaimah Silver Card

Offers a 50% discount on all internal bus services (inter-emirate routes excluded).

How to Obtain

• Visit the Al Dhait neighborhood's Al Hamra Bus Station. 

• Bring your Emirates ID and student ID.

• Pay Dh20, pre-loaded with Dh10 credit.

This half-price fare means RAK students pay just Dh1.50 per ride on the standard Dh3 fare, a significant saving over a semester.

Tips for Maximising Savings

• Plan Around Validity: Note expiry dates and top up well before exams or holidays.

• Combine Offers: In Dubai, use your nol student card for transport and shopping discounts in one swipe.

• Check for Updates: Authorities occasionally adjust rates or add new benefits under Travel updates, so revisit official portals each semester.

• Use Apps: Download the relevant transport apps to track balances and reload your card seamlessly.

Conclusion

Whether you are catching the Dubai Metro, an Etihad Rail shuttle, or an Ajman bus, these subsidised schemes ensure students in the UAE can travel affordably and sustainably. By tapping into the latest UAE Transport updates and following this Public transport guide, you could unlock significant savings and enjoy a smoother commute, leaving more of your budget for books, meals, and memorable campus experiences.