As part of the large-scale digital transformation of the United Arab Emirates’ transport system, Abu Dhabi has introduced its own Hafilat smart card — a mandatory tool for paying for public transport. For everyone — both residents and guests of the emirate — the card is the only legal form of paying for bus fare. Unlike other emirates, which use cards like Nol (Dubai), Sayer (Sharjah) or Masaar (Ajman), the capital of the UAE uses Hafilat — a name that means “buses” in Arabic, Khaleej Times has reported.
The system works on the principle of contactless reading: the passenger is required to apply the card to the validator when entering the bus and when exiting. This allows you to accurately calculate the fare — the base cost is 2 dirhams plus 5 fils for each additional kilometer, but the total amount does not exceed 5 dirhams for one trip. The Hafilat card is available in two versions – anonymous and personalized. Both types support top-up or activation of unlimited trips for a given period. This solution allows you to integrate control, convenience and personalization into a single transport platform.
Anonymous Hafilat cards: a simple start for a mobile city
The anonymous version of Hafilat is the fastest way to enter the city’s transport system without paperwork. The cost of the card is only 10 dirhams, and the validity period is an impressive 16 years. It can be purchased without any documents: just pay the specified amount, and the card will be ready for use immediately. This is convenient for tourists or temporary users, but it is important to remember: if the card is lost or damaged, it cannot be restored, and therefore the funds on it will also be lost. You can purchase an anonymous Hafilat at:
- vending and top-up machines;
- Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society (SPAR) stores;
- Al Ain Cooperative Society branches;
- at all Lulu supermarkets and Lulu exchange offices in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra;
- at passenger service centers at bus stations and the international airport;
- online via the website https://hafilat.darb.ae. If the card is purchased online, a copy of the application form and payment receipt must be presented at the nearest service point to receive it.
This type of card is an affordable, flexible mobility tool that, despite its limitations, remains popular among infrequent bus users.
Personalized Hafilat cards and concessionary travel
For residents who regularly use public transport, the most advantageous option is the personalized Hafilat card – completely free and also with a 16-year validity period. Unlike the anonymous version, this version requires the presentation of an Emirates ID for residents or a passport with a visa for visitors, as well as a personal photo. You can take a photo directly at the Customer Happiness Centers at the bus stations. In case of loss or damage to the card, all funds will be saved. You can purchase a personalized Hafilat at:
- customer service offices at bus stations;
- the airport office at Abu Dhabi International Airport, which operates 24/7;
- online via https://hafilat.darb.ae with subsequent receipt of a physical card at designated service points.
A maximum of 150 dirhams can be stored on the card. Important: the balance is valid for only 90 days from the date of the last top-up. If the card is not used, simply attach it to the TVM machine to renew the validity period. Top-up is available through:
- TVM terminals at stations;
- customer centers at bus stations;
- MBME terminals in shopping malls and business centers (with a balance update delay of up to 2 hours);
- the official website.
For active users, Hafilat also offers 7-day and 30-day passes: for AED 35 and AED 95, respectively. The passes allow unlimited travel across the emirate, both in the city and in the suburbs of Al Ain and Al Dhafra. Both anonymous and personalized card users can obtain passes. A separate category is annual concessionary travel passes:
- Students can purchase an annual unlimited card for AED 500. You must have an Emirates ID, a valid student ID and a photo.
- Citizens and residents aged 55+ receive an annual pass for free. All you need is an ID and a photo.
- People of Determination are entitled to free travel with an accompanying person, provided that they have an Emirates ID, a photo, an Aounak card (or equivalent), a medical certificate (if necessary) and a personal companion card.
This model not only encourages the use of public transport, but also creates a sustainable, socially-oriented transport policy for Abu Dhabi.