The Hafilat Card is the backbone of Abu Dhabi’s public transportation system, which has been rated as one of the best in the Middle East. The Hafilat Card makes it easy to travel around Abu Dhabi, whether you’re a daily commuter or just a tourist. It’s important to be able to recharge your Hafilat Card and hafilat balance check to ensure seamless travel.
The guide will explain the different types of Hafilat cards, how to your Hafilat card balance check and hafilat online recharge and offline, as well as tips on managing and using your card.
Hafilat Card: What is it?
Hafilat was launched by the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport to simplify fare collection and offer a cashless solution for users of public transportation. In Arabic, “Hafilat”, which means bus, makes sense because the card’s primary use is for Abu Dhabi buses.
With the card, users can avoid carrying around cash and buying tickets every time they travel. You can easily pay for your fare by tapping on the validator. Hafilat cards are used by both locals and tourists to commute in Abu Dhabi’s capital.
Hafilat Cards Types
Hafilat offers a variety of cards to suit the different needs and requirements of commuters.
Hafilat Temporary Card
The card is perfect for short-term tourists who plan on using Abu Dhabi’s buses only for a few hours. The card is valid for 30 consecutive days and can be purchased at any vending machine or service center.
Permanent Hafilat card
This card, designed for commuters who use public transport every day, is valid for 5 years and rechargeable multiple times. This card is ideal for people who live and work in Abu Dhabi. It offers an easy way to keep track of travel costs.
Hafilat Special Cards
Several groups have special travel cards that offer discounts and free privileges.
- Student Discounts: Reduced rates for students traveling to school or university.
- Reduced rates for seniors or even free of charge access.
- Cards for people of determination: special cards that ensure accessibility and travel ease.
Why Checking Your Hafilat Balance is Important
It is important to check your Hafilat balance regularly for an enjoyable travel experience. Ending up with no credit could cause unnecessary inconvenience or delays. Staying informed about your credit balance will help you:
- Do not top up your credit cards at the last minute before you board.
- Travel expenses can be planned efficiently.
- Access to the public bus system in Abu Dhabi is guaranteed.
- Recharge your devices in advance to save time.
How to check your Hafilat card balance
You can check your balance using multiple methods. This is a look at the different methods.
Charge your Hafilat account via the online portal
- Portal
Go to https://hafilat.darb.ae. - Enter the Card Number
Enter your Hafilat Card Number. And hafilat balance check - Select Recharge Amount
Choose your preferred top-up (AED 10 AED 20 AED 30 AED 50 AED 100 etc.) - Enter Payment Details
Securely pay with a credit or debit card. - Confirm your Recharge
Your card balance is updated immediately or in a matter of minutes after confirmation.
Method 2: Recharge via Darb Mobile App
-
- Darb App Download
Apple App Store & Google Play Store. - Please Login or Register
Create a new account, or use your current one. - Hafilat Card Section
Click on the option to recharge. - Choose Amount and Enter Card No.
Select your desired recharge amount. - Pay for your Order
Use your favorite card to pay.
- Darb App Download
- You will receive a confirmation
The app will confirm your recharge via a message.
3. Tickets Vending Machines
In Abu Dhabi, ticket vending machines are located in major bus stops, shopping malls, and public places.
What is TVM?
- Scan your card using the scanner.
- The machine will display your balance.
- These machines also allow you to recharge your cards.
3. Validator Machines for Buses
Tap your Hafilat Card on the Validator at the bus entrance to board the vehicle. This machine automatically subtracts your fare from your balance and displays it. It is easy to receive real-time information.
4. CustomerService Centers
You can also visit the Department of Transport’s service center in Abu Dhabi if you would prefer to receive personal assistance. The staff can help you with your card registration or replacement, as well as provide travel advice.
5. Mobile Apps
Hafilat customers can check their account balance on some Abu Dhabi travel and transport apps. The apps offer additional features such as fare calculators and bus route planners to make travel more convenient.
How to Hafilat Online Recharge
It is easy to hafilat online recharge. Hafilat’s official portal is set up to streamline this process.
The Step-by-Step Process for Online Recharge
- Hafilat Portal
Go to the official website: https://hafilat.darb.ae. - Enter Your Card Details
Enter your Hafilat Card number into the section for recharge. - Select Recharge Amount
Choose the amount to top up (AED 10 or 20, AED 30 or 50, AED 100). - Pay for your Order
Securely pay using your debit or credit card. - Use Your Card
You can immediately use your card after the balance is updated.
Online Recharge Table
Recharge Amount (AED) | Credit Added (AED) | Bonus Credit (AED) | Total Credit (AED) | Method | Fee (AED) |
10 | 10 | 0 | 10 | Hafilat Portal / DoT Website | Free |
20 | 20 | 0 | 20 | Hafilat Portal / DoT Website | Free |
30 | 30 | 0 | 30 | Hafilat Portal / DoT Website | Free |
50 | 50 | 0 | 50 | Hafilat Portal / DoT Website | Free |
100 | 100 | 0 | 100 | Hafilat Portal / DoT Website | Free |
Offline Recharge Options
There are several options for offline recharge if you do not want to use the online option:
- Ticket vending machines: You can recharge your card in any TVM across Abu Dhabi.
- Find out how to get help at the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport Service Centres.
- Many authorized retailers allow customers to add money to their cards while they shop.
Hafilat cards are accepted on Abu Dhabi Public Transport.
Hafilat cards are primarily for Abu Dhabi’s vast bus network. How to use the Hafilat card:
- Enter the bus and tap your card on the validator.
- When you hear the beep, wait for the balance to appear on your screen.
- If necessary, tap again to calculate the fare.
Hafilat card management tips
- Maintain a minimum balance.
Make sure your credit card is fully charged for the next trip. - Register your Card
You can recover the balance of your card if you lose or steal it by registering your card. - Pay Online for Recharge
You can top up your account from home and save time. - Check Your Balance Regularly
Check your balance regularly to prevent last-minute surprises. - Keep up to date with the latest changes.
The Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi updates its fare regulations and offers periodically. Be sure to keep an eye out for announcements.
Contact Information for Customer Service
Contact support if you have any issues with the Hafilat Card.
- Website: https://hafilat.darb.ae
- Phone: 800 8888 (Abu Dhabi call center)
- Email: customer.care@dot.abudhabi.ae
- Service Centers: Available across Abu Dhabi.
Conclusion:
Hafilat cards are essential for Abu Dhabi public transportation. You can avoid stress and travel easily by keeping an eye on your credit and charging it online. You can check your credit balance in many ways: online, via vending machines or apps, while on the bus, etc.
If you are a visitor in Abu Dhabi for a brief stay, or a local who commutes daily, knowing how to manage and use your Hafilat Card will make it easier and more convenient for you.
FAQs
1. How can I recharge my Hafilat Card without creating an Account?
You can recharge your cards by simply entering the card number.
2. If I misplace my Hafilat Card, what happens?
You can transfer your balance from one card to another if you have registered the card.
3. Can tourists purchase and use the Hafilat Card?
Tourists can buy temporary cards at TVMs and bus stations.
4. Does online recharge incur an additional fee?
All online recharges are completely free.
5. Can I use the Hafilat Card outside Abu Dhabi
At the moment, this is valid only for Abu Dhabi’s public transport network.
Last modified: September 4, 2025