Dubai commuters will soon be able to use their palms to ride the Metro, as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) prepares to roll out a new payment system by 2026. This cutting-edge technology will eliminate the need for Nol cards, allowing passengers to link their palm to their Nol account and simply scan it at Metro gates.
“We are still testing it in our centre of excellence at RTA and it needs at least a year and a half of full assurance and full quality check,” explained Salah Almarzooqi, Director of Automated Collection Systems at RTA. “Only then we can just go to the market so it will be ready to roll out by 2026 or beyond,” he added.
During a presentation at the Gitex Global technology exhibition, RTA officials demonstrated how commuters can link their palm with a Nol card.
By scanning their palm at the smart gates, the system will automatically deduct the fare from their Nol account, providing a seamless and contactless travel experience.
Almarzooqi also highlighted RTA’s vision for an account-based ticketing system that will extend beyond Metro travel. “Using this, a passenger can pay on the Metro, the bus, and any public transport just by scanning their palm. Not only this, as you might know, Nol cards are accepted in several shops, so after this concept is finalized and approved, we are going to work further on the system so that you can also pay at these shops by using your palm.”
The integration of palm-scanning technology is part of a broader initiative by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). The ICP is collaborating with the Central Bank of the UAE to develop a faster, more seamless service that will link the palm of the hand to both public and private sector entities, enhancing overall convenience.
In addition to the pay-by-palm system, Almarzooqi discussed the success of the newly introduced Nol cards for tourists. Launched in June, the tourist card has attracted considerable interest. “Tourists can buy the card for Dh150 at the airport, allowing them to use it for Metro, tram, buses, and receive discounts at over 800 vendors across the UAE, including desert safaris, hotels, and other attractions,” he said.
The RTA also introduced a new Nol card earlier this year, designed specifically for students. This card doubles as an internationally-recognized student ID, offering exclusive benefits and discounts from global companies such as Emirates, YouTube, Spotify, and Noon.