What is the Hafilat Card?
The Hafilat Card is Abu Dhabi's official smart transportation card that allows residents and visitors to conveniently pay for public transportation services throughout the city. It's a contactless card that works by simply tapping it on the card reader when boarding and alighting from buses.
Key Features:
- Contactless payment technology for quick and easy transactions
- Valid for all public buses within Abu Dhabi city and intercity routes
- Available in multiple types to suit different user needs
- Can be used as an electronic purse (T-purse) or for period passes
- Eliminates the need for cash and exact change
- Environmentally friendly alternative to paper tickets
Important Note: The Hafilat Card is only valid in Abu Dhabi. For public transportation in Dubai, you'll need to use the NOL Card instead. These cards are not interchangeable between the two emirates.
Types of Hafilat Cards
Abu Dhabi's transportation authority offers several types of Hafilat Cards to meet the needs of different users. Each card type has specific features, benefits, and eligibility requirements:
Anonymous Hafilat Card
The standard card option for all users, requiring no registration or personal information.
- Price: 10 AED (card cost only, additional credit needed for travel)
- Validity: 16 years
- Min. Initial Load: 10 AED recommended
- Documentation Required: None
- Advantages: Immediate use, no paperwork, complete privacy
- Limitations: Cannot recover balance if lost or damaged
Note: This card is the most common choice for tourists and short-term visitors.
Personalized Hafilat Card
A registered card linked to your Emirates ID, offering additional benefits and security.
- Price: 10 AED
- Validity: 5 years
- Min. Initial Load: 10 AED recommended
- Documentation Required: Emirates ID, passport-size photo
- Advantages: Balance recovery if lost/damaged, access to special discounts
- Limitations: Requires registration process and documentation
Recommendation: Ideal for residents and long-term visitors who regularly use public transportation in Abu Dhabi.
Student Hafilat Card
Special card designed for students with discounted fares.
- Price: 5 AED
- Validity: 5 years (subject to continued student status)
- Documentation Required: Emirates ID, student ID, letter from educational institution
- Advantages: Significant discounts on fares, some routes may offer free travel
- Limitations: Only available to registered students at recognized institutions
Benefit: Students can save up to 50% on regular transportation costs with this card.
Senior Citizen Hafilat Card
Special card with benefits for senior citizens over 60 years.
- Price: 5 AED
- Validity: 5 years
- Age Requirement: 60+ years for UAE nationals, 66+ years for expatriates
- Documentation Required: Emirates ID, proof of age
- Advantages: Free travel on many routes, significant discounts on others
Important: Different age thresholds apply for UAE nationals and expatriates to qualify for senior benefits.
Special Needs Hafilat Card
Designed for people with disabilities, offering accessibility features and discounts.
- Price: 5 AED
- Validity: 5 years
- Documentation Required: Emirates ID, medical certificate or disability card
- Advantages: Free travel on most routes, priority boarding, accessibility features
- Additional Benefits: One companion may travel free of charge on certain routes
Service: Specialized assistance is available for cardholders with special needs at major stations.
Temporary Hafilat Card
A short-term solution for visitors and tourists in Abu Dhabi.
- Price: Free (requires initial balance load)
- Validity: 14-30 days (depending on issuance location)
- Min. Initial Load: 10 AED
- Documentation Required: None (passport may be requested)
- Advantages: Quick acquisition, no long-term commitment
- Limitations: Limited validity period, cannot be extended
Note for Tourists: Available at airport information desks, major bus stations, and some hotels. Perfect for short visits to the city.
Card Types Comparison Table
| Card Type | Price | Validity | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anonymous | 10 AED | 16 years | No registration, no personal data | Any user, tourists |
| Personalized | 10 AED | 5 years | Balance recovery if lost | Residents, frequent users |
| Student | 5 AED | 5 years | Discounted fares | Registered students |
| Senior | 5 AED | 5 years | Free/discounted travel | Seniors 60+ (UAE)/66+ (expats) |
| Special Needs | 5 AED | 5 years | Free travel, companion benefits | People with disabilities |
| Temporary | Free | 14-30 days | Quick acquisition | Visitors, short stays |
How and Where to Get a Hafilat Card
Obtaining a Hafilat Card is a straightforward process, with multiple locations and methods available depending on the type of card you need and your current location in Abu Dhabi.
Purchase Locations
Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)
Self-service machines located at major bus stations, transit hubs, and popular destinations throughout Abu Dhabi.
Available 24/7 for anonymous cards
Customer Service Centers
Official transportation authority service centers where staff can assist with all card types, including personalized cards.
Required for special cards (student, senior, special needs)
Authorized Retailers
Select hypermarkets (like Lulu), shopping malls, and convenience stores sell anonymous Hafilat Cards.
Convenient for quick purchase of standard cards
Application Process
Select the appropriate card type
Determine which card best suits your needs based on your status (resident, tourist, student, senior, etc.) and expected usage frequency.
Gather required documentation
For anonymous cards: No documents needed
For personalized cards: Emirates ID and passport-sized photograph
For special cards: Additional supporting documents (student ID, medical certificates, etc.)
Visit a purchase location
Anonymous cards: Available at TVMs, customer service centers, and authorized retailers
Personalized/special cards: Available only at customer service centers
Complete application and payment
Fill out any required forms
Pay the card fee (5-10 AED depending on card type)
Load initial credit onto the card (minimum recommended: 10 AED)
Receive your card
Anonymous cards: Issued immediately
Personalized cards: May take 15-30 minutes to process at service centers
Special category cards: May require verification and could take 1-2 business days
Key Locations for Card Purchase
Main Customer Service Centers
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Terminal (Main Station)
- Abu Dhabi International Airport
- Al Wahda Mall Transport Information Center
- Marina Mall Transport Information Center
- Yas Mall Transport Information Center
Major TVM Locations
- All major bus stations
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Tourist attractions
- Major shopping malls
Recharging Your Hafilat Card
Keeping your Hafilat Card loaded with sufficient balance is essential for uninterrupted travel. Abu Dhabi offers multiple convenient options for recharging your card.
Recharge Methods
In Person
- Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)
- Customer Service Centers
- Authorized retailers (Lulu, ADNOC)
- Bus station counters
Payment: Cash, credit/debit cards
Online
- Official Hafilat website
- DARB transportation portal
- Abu Dhabi transportation mobile app
Payment: Credit/debit cards
Note: Online recharges may take up to 24 hours to reflect
Auto-Reload
- Available for personalized cards only
- Set minimum balance threshold
- Choose reload amount
- Link to credit card
Setup: Online through DARB account or at customer service centers
Step-by-Step Recharge Process
At Ticket Vending Machines:
- Select "Recharge Hafilat Card" on the main screen
- Place your card on the reader when prompted
- View current balance and select recharge amount
- Choose payment method (cash or card)
- Complete payment and collect receipt
- Place card on reader again to confirm new balance
Online Recharge:
- Log in to the official Hafilat website or DARB portal
- Select "Recharge Hafilat Card" option
- Enter your card number (16 digits on back of card)
- Choose recharge amount
- Complete payment using credit/debit card
- Receive confirmation email
- Tap card at any TVM or bus reader within 24 hours to activate the reload
Important Recharge Tips:
- Minimum recharge amount: 10 AED
- Maximum card balance: 1,000 AED
- Always keep minimum 4 AED balance for uninterrupted travel
- Online recharges must be activated by tapping at a reader within 24 hours
- Keep recharge receipts until balance appears on your card
- Check balance before boarding to avoid disruptions
Checking Your Balance
On bus card readers when boarding
At any Ticket Vending Machine
Customer service centers
Online (registered cards only)
Fares and Available Passes
The Hafilat Card offers flexible payment options including pay-as-you-go and period passes to suit different travel needs and frequency.
Standard Fares (T-Purse)
The "T-Purse" is the default payment mode where each trip deducts the appropriate fare from your card balance.
| Service Type | Adult Fare | Student/Senior/Special Needs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus (within Abu Dhabi city) | 2 AED | 1 AED or Free* | Flat rate regardless of distance |
| Suburban Routes | 2-4 AED | 1-2 AED or Free* | Based on distance traveled |
| Intercity (to Al Ain) | 10 AED | 5 AED | Express service |
| Intercity (to Dubai) | 25 AED | 15 AED | Express service |
| Airport Routes | 4 AED | 2 AED | Direct service to/from airport |
* Free travel may apply to certain card types and routes. Eligibility varies.
Period Passes
For frequent travelers, period passes offer unlimited travel within their validity period and can provide significant savings.
7-Day Pass
- Unlimited city bus travel
- Valid for 7 consecutive days
- Begins from first use
Best for: Short-term visitors or occasional users
30-Day Pass
- Unlimited city bus travel
- Valid for 30 consecutive days
- Begins from first use
Best for: Regular commuters and residents
Student Semester Pass
- Unlimited city bus travel
- Valid for academic semester (3-4 months)
- Available only on Student Hafilat Cards
Best for: Students with daily commute to school/university
Pass Usage Notes:
- Period passes are only valid for city and suburban routes
- Intercity routes require additional payment or separate tickets
- Airport routes may be excluded from some passes
- Passes are non-refundable once activated
- Passes can be loaded onto any Hafilat card type
Special Discounts
| Eligible Group | Discount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Students | 50% off standard fares or free on specific routes | Must use Student Hafilat Card |
| Senior Citizens | Free travel on city routes | Must use Senior Hafilat Card |
| People with Disabilities | Free travel + free companion on city routes | Must use Special Needs Hafilat Card |
| Military Personnel | 50% off standard fares | Must present military ID with personalized card |
Advantages and Limitations
Advantages
-
Convenience: No need to carry exact change; simply tap your card when boarding and alighting
-
Speed: Faster boarding with contactless payments reduces wait times at bus stops
-
Cost-effective: Period passes offer significant savings for frequent travelers
-
Security: Personalized cards protect your balance if the card is lost or stolen
-
Accessibility: Special cards provide discounts and benefits for students, seniors, and people with disabilities
-
Durability: Cards are designed to last for years (5-16 years depending on type)
-
Flexibility: Multiple recharge options including online, at machines, or at retail locations
-
Environmental impact: Reduces paper waste from traditional tickets
Limitations
-
Geographic restriction: Only valid in Abu Dhabi; not usable in Dubai or other emirates
-
Initial cost: Cards require an upfront fee (5-10 AED) plus minimum balance
-
Anonymous card risks: No way to recover balance if an anonymous card is lost or damaged
-
Documentation requirements: Special cards require supporting documents and longer processing time
-
Online recharge delay: Up to 24 hours for online recharges to activate on the card
-
No auto-refund: Unused balances not automatically refunded when leaving the country
-
No integration: Not integrated with other transport systems like taxis or water taxis
Tips to Maximize Benefits:
- Residents should opt for personalized cards for balance protection
- Frequent travelers should calculate if period passes offer better value than pay-as-you-go
- Set up auto-reload (personalized cards) to avoid unexpected low balance situations
- Check your eligibility for special discounted cards before purchasing a standard card
- Keep receipts of recharges until balance is confirmed on your card
- Register your anonymous card online (if possible) to track usage and recharge history
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about the Hafilat Card system and its usage in Abu Dhabi.
No, the Hafilat Card is only valid for public transportation in Abu Dhabi. For Dubai, you need to use the NOL Card, which is Dubai's smart transportation card. The two systems are not integrated, and each card only works in its respective emirate.
If your balance is insufficient for the fare, you will not be able to board the bus. There is no negative balance allowance in the Hafilat system. It's recommended to maintain at least 10 AED on your card to avoid any travel disruptions. Traveling without sufficient balance may result in fines.
No, each traveler must have their own Hafilat Card. Sharing a card among multiple passengers is not permitted. Each card is designed for individual use only, and the system tracks individual journeys for each card.
If you forget to tap out when exiting the bus, the system may charge you the maximum possible fare for that route. For city buses with flat fares, this is not an issue. However, for suburban or intercity routes with distance-based fares, it could result in a higher charge. Always remember to tap both when boarding and alighting.
Yes, you can request a refund for the remaining balance on your card at any customer service center. You'll need to provide the physical card and may need to show identification. For personalized cards, the refund process is straightforward. For anonymous cards, refunds are at the discretion of the transport authority. The card fee (5-10 AED) is typically non-refundable.
For personalized cards: Visit any customer service center with your damaged card and identification. The remaining balance can be transferred to a new card (you'll need to pay for the new card).
For anonymous cards: Unfortunately, balances on damaged anonymous cards generally cannot be recovered, which is one of the limitations of these cards.
Yes, children under 5 years of age travel free on Abu Dhabi public buses without requiring a Hafilat Card. Children aged 5-10 can use a standard Hafilat Card but may be eligible for discounted fares on some routes. Students under 18 should apply for the Student Hafilat Card to receive the maximum available discounts.
Yes, visitors can obtain temporary Hafilat Cards that are valid for 14-30 days. These can be acquired at the airport, major bus stations, and some hotels. Alternatively, tourists can also purchase the standard anonymous card, which has no expiration limitations but costs 10 AED instead of being free like the temporary card.
The maximum balance allowed on a Hafilat Card is 1,000 AED. If you attempt to load more than this amount, the transaction will be declined. This limit applies to all card types including anonymous, personalized, and special category cards.
For personalized cards: You can view your transaction history online by registering your card on the official DARB portal or at any customer service center.
For anonymous cards: Detailed usage history is not available. You can only check the current balance at TVMs or customer service centers.
Tips for Tourists and Residents
For Tourists
Best Card Option
Temporary Hafilat Card (free) or Anonymous Hafilat Card (10 AED)
Temporary cards are valid for 14-30 days, perfect for short visits. Available at the airport and major stations.
Getting Around
- Bus routes 94, 95, and X90 connect Abu Dhabi Airport to the city center
- Route 101 is excellent for sightseeing along the Corniche
- Route 54 connects to major shopping malls
- Bus A1 provides service to and from Ferrari World and Yas Island attractions
Money-Saving Tips
- 7-day pass (30 AED) is cost-effective if you'll take more than 15 trips in a week
- Load only what you need to avoid unused balance at the end of your trip
- Consider shared cards among family members for intercity trips only (not for city buses)
- Check if your hotel offers free shuttle services before paying for public transport
Before You Leave
- You can request a refund for your remaining balance at customer service centers
- Keep your receipt if you plan to visit again within the card's validity period
- Consider giving your card to another traveler if the refund process is too time-consuming
For Residents
Best Card Option
Personalized Hafilat Card (10 AED) or Special Category Card if eligible
Personalized cards protect your balance and provide access to additional services like online balance checking and auto-reload.
Daily Commuting
- Set up auto-reload to avoid running out of balance during busy mornings
- Calculate if a 30-day pass (80 AED) would save you money based on your typical usage
- Download the Abu Dhabi bus app to track real-time arrivals
- Register for SMS alerts for balance notifications
Maintenance and Updates
- Check your card expiration date and renew in advance to avoid disruptions
- Keep your contact information updated for personalized cards
- Register your card online to access additional features
- Store your card number separately in case of loss or theft
Special Benefits to Claim
- Students can apply for semester passes with significant discounts
- Seniors (60+ UAE nationals, 66+ expatriates) can travel for free on city routes
- Military personnel can request special discounts with proper documentation
- People with disabilities may be eligible for free travel and companion benefits
General Tips for All Users
Bus Etiquette
- Have your card ready before boarding
- Tap in AND out on routes with variable fares
- Offer seats to elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities
- Enter through front door, exit through rear
Safety Tips
- Don't share your PIN if you have set one
- Keep receipt until balance is confirmed
- Report lost personalized cards immediately
- Check balance before starting important journeys
Time-Saving Tips
- Use express bus services when available
- Travel during off-peak hours when possible
- Use the DARB app to plan efficient routes
- Consider multi-modal transport options
Balance Recovery & Card Renewal Procedures
Lost or Stolen Cards
For Personalized Cards
- Report the loss immediately by calling the customer service hotline (800-88888) or visiting any customer service center
- Provide your card number (if known) and identification
- Your card will be blocked to prevent unauthorized use
- Pay the replacement fee of 10 AED for a new card
- Your previous balance will be transferred to the new card (may take 1-2 business days)
- Any active passes will also be transferred to the new card
For Anonymous Cards
Unfortunately, balances on lost or stolen anonymous cards cannot be recovered. This is one of the primary disadvantages of anonymous cards and why personalized cards are recommended for residents or for storing significant balances.
Prevention tip: Consider taking a photo of the card number on the back of your anonymous card. While this won't guarantee recovery, it may help in some circumstances if you can prove recent recharges with receipts.
Damaged Cards
- Take the damaged card to any customer service center
- Staff will assess if the card is still readable by the system
- For personalized cards: balance will be transferred to a new card (10 AED fee applies)
- For anonymous cards: balance may be recovered if the card number is still visible and the chip is intact
- Severely damaged anonymous cards with unreadable chips generally cannot have balances recovered
Note: Keep your Hafilat Card in a protective case to prevent physical damage. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat, cold, or moisture.
Card Renewal Process
When to Renew
- Anonymous Cards: Valid for 16 years from issue date
- Personalized Cards: Valid for 5 years from issue date
- Special Category Cards: Valid for 5 years or until eligibility changes
- Temporary Cards: Valid for 14-30 days, not renewable
The expiration date is typically printed on the back of the card. You should renew your card before it expires to avoid travel disruptions.
Renewal Steps
- Visit any customer service center with your expiring card
- For personalized cards: Bring your Emirates ID and any updated documentation
- For special category cards: Re-verification of eligibility may be required
- Pay the card fee (5-10 AED depending on card type)
- Any remaining balance from your old card will be transferred to the new one
- Active passes may also be transferred (subject to terms)
Leaving Abu Dhabi/UAE
Balance Refund Process
If you're permanently leaving Abu Dhabi or the UAE, you can request a refund for your remaining Hafilat Card balance by following these steps:
- Visit any customer service center at least 3-5 days before your departure
- Bring your Hafilat Card, Emirates ID or passport, and proof of departure (flight ticket)
- Complete a refund request form
- Return your Hafilat Card
- Receive your refund in cash (for amounts up to 100 AED) or by bank transfer/check (for larger amounts)
Note: A small processing fee may be deducted from your refund amount. The card fee (5-10 AED) is non-refundable.
Additional Recovery Services
Online Account Recovery
If you've registered your personalized Hafilat Card online but forgotten your login details:
- Visit the official DARB portal
- Click "Forgot Password" or "Account Recovery"
- Follow the verification process
- Set new access credentials
Transaction Disputes
If you notice incorrect charges or missing balance:
- Collect all relevant receipts and transaction records
- Visit a customer service center within 30 days of the transaction
- File a formal dispute form
- Investigations typically take 7-14 days