The public transportation system in Abu Dhabi has been designed for residents as well as visitors to be more comfortable and convenient. The Hafilat Bus Card is at the core of the system, also known as the Abu Dhabi Bus Card. The smart card allows for seamless bus travel throughout the vast network of buses in the emirate.
This guide will tell you everything about Hafilat cards: what they are, the types, how to obtain one, recharging, Hafilat card balance check, rules, and fines.
What is the Hafilat Bus Card?
Hafilat is Abu Dhabi’s official smart bus card. The Department of Transport introduced the Hafilat card to reduce cash reliance, improve commuter efficiency, and streamline travel.
- In Arabic, the word “Hafilat”, which means “buses,” is used.
- The technology used is NFC (Near Field Communication), which allows for quick and contactless payment.
- You can top up your cards online, through vending machines in retail outlets.
What You Should Know About Bus Cards in Abu Dhabi
It is often impossible to travel without the Hafilat Card, as many buses do not accept cash.
Convenience
Tap your card instead of looking for coins when you board.
Cost Savings
Card holders get discounted rates compared with cash-paying passengers.
You can board faster.
The use of contactless payments reduces the waiting time at bus stops and increases traffic flow.
Flexible Payments
The cards are rechargeable, and they can be used on all routes in Abu Dhabi including the suburban and intercity ones.
Types of Hafilat Bus Cards
Different travelers have different needs, and the Abu Dhabi bus card system is designed with this in mind.
Anonymous Card
- Best for: Short-term visitors or occasional users.
- Cost: AED 10–30.
- Initial Balance: AED 10–20.
- Validity: Until the balance runs out.
- Rechargeable: Yes.
This is the simplest option, suitable for anyone who doesn’t need long-term commitment.
Personalized Card
- Best for: Residents and frequent commuters.
- Cost: AED 30.
- Initial Balance: AED 20.
- Validity: 5 years.
- Requirements: Emirates ID, personal photo.
A personalized card is registered in your name, offering extra security if lost.
Temporary Card
- Best for: Tourists or short-term visitors.
- Cost: AED 5–10.
- Initial Balance: AED 5–10.
- Validity: 14–30 days.
Ideal for tourists staying a few days or weeks.
How to Get a Hafilat Bus Card in Abu Dhabi
It is easy to get a bus pass. You can do this in multiple ways.
1. The Bus Terminals
- You can find a customer service desk at the bus station.
- Select your preferred card type.
- Documents (for personal cards)
- You must pay the amount required.
- Instantly collect your card..
2. Shops and supermarkets
Several retail partners issue Hafilat cards.
Popular Locations
- Lulu Hypermarket
- Carrefour Hypermarket
- Al Wahda Mall
- Mushrif Mall
- Yas Mall
- Abu Dhabi Mall
- Khalidiyah Mall
- Bawabat Al Sharq Mall
Steps:
- Visit our customer service desk.
- Hafilat cards can be requested.
- Choose the card type.
- Costs are payable.
- Get your card right away.
3. Buy Online
Residents can buy a bus pass online.
Steps:
- Hafilat’s official website is available.
- Log in or register.
- Choose the type of card.
- Please provide all required information (Emirates ID/passport and photo).
- Online payment (with credit/debit cards)
- You can receive a digital card (in certain cases) immediately or the actual physical card via mail.
4. Hafilat Card Vending Machines
At major bus stations and shopping malls, self-service kiosks can be found.
Steps:
- Choose the card type.
- Enter details (for personalized cards).
- Pay with cash or a ca.
- Take your card.
Documents required for personalized cards
You must: A valid Emirates ID is required for all residents.
- Copy of passport (for Visitors)
- Passport-sized photo.
Cost of Abu Dhabi Bus Card
| Card Type | Cost (AED) | Initial Balance (AED) | Validity |
| Anonymous Card | 10–30 | 10–20 | Until the balance runs out |
| Personalized | 30 | 20 | 5 years |
| Temporary | 5–10 | 5–10 | 14–30 days |
How to Recharge a Hafilat Bus Card
Recharging is easy, and there are multiple options.
1. Pay Online for Recharge
- You can visit the Hafilat Portal or the Abu Dhabi DoT Website.
- Hafilat Online Recharge
- You can log in with your credit card number.
- Choose the recharge amount.
- You can pay by credit/debit card.
- Instant credit is available (often within hours).
2. Vending Machines
- Put your card in the slot.
- Select the recharge amount.
- Pay with cash or a card.
- The balance is automatically updated.
3. Shops and Retail Outlets
- Shop at partner malls and supermarkets.
- Recharge service is available.
- You can pay with cash or a card.
Recharge Bonus System
| Recharge Amount (AED) | Bonus (AED) | Total Balance (AED) |
| 10 | 0 | 10 |
| 20 | 0 | 20 |
| 50 | 5 | 55 |
| 100 | 10 | 110 |
| 200 | 20 | 220 |
How to Check Hafilat Card Balance
- To view your balance, enter the card number.
- Input card to set the balance displayed on the vending machines
- The balance will be displayed on the bus machine when you tap in.
- Retail outlets: Ask for a balance enquiry.
The Rules of the Road and Their Fines
Abu Dhabi’s strict bus rules are designed to ensure the smooth running of its buses.
Common Rules
- Tap your card to board.
- Make sure you are in a good balance before traveling.
- One card per passenger.
- Cards are not transferable except for Anonymous cards
Amenities and Penalties
- If you travel without the card, there is a fine of AED 200.
- Use of someone else’s card personalized: fine AED 200
- Insufficient balance – AED 200 Fine
Expiry Dates, Renewal, and Refund
Expiration
- The cards can be used for a maximum of 5 years.
- The temporary cards will expire in 14-30 days.
- When the card balance is exhausted, anonymous cards will expire.
Renewal
- Renew your personalized cards online or in bus stations.
Refund Policy
- On request, refunds are available on unused cards.
Hafilat card: Practical tips for using it
- Tourists can choose a temporary card or an anonymous one for short-term stays.
- Get a customized card for long-term advantages.
- Pre-charge your phone: This will prevent you from having to top up at the last minute.
- Recharge higher to receive bonus credits.
Last Thoughts
Hafilat’s bus card offers more than just an easy way to travel around Abu Dhabi. Choose the card that best suits your needs, whether you are a tourist visiting for just a couple of days or a local who commutes daily.
Understanding card types, charging methods, rules, and penalties will help you make the best use of Abu Dhabi’s public transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I use my Hafilat Card outside Abu Dhabi
At the moment, this is valid only on Abu Dhabi’s bus system, and not in Dubai or other cities.
2. How can I give my card to another person?
Shared cards are only Anonymous or Temporary. Personalised cards are unique.
3. If I misplace my card, what happens?
You can request to replace a card if you own a customized one. Cards that are anonymous or temporary cannot be recovered.4.
Is thereis a Hafilat mobile application?
You can recharge and manage your balance through the Hafilat app
5. Do tourists have the option to purchase cards in airports?
You can get cards at the airport and in nearby malls.
Last modified: September 7, 2025
