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Transport authorities in the UAE have streamlined the process for commuters. Pay for public transport fares to go anywhere in the UAE. It includes the introduction of the Hafilat card program by the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi in 2015. It actually replaces traditional cash payments.
The Abu Dhabi Bus System
Abu Dhabi’s bus network extends throughout the city, reaching most residential areas. With numerous stops, journey durations can be lengthy.
What is Hafilat?
Abu Dhabi Bus Card Hafilat serves as a prepaid ‘smart’ transportation card designed for use on Abu Dhabi buses. When boarding and disembarking, users tap their card to ensure accurate fare charges. Failure to tap upon entry may result in fines if detected by ticket inspectors.
It’s important to note that Hafilat is exclusively for use within Abu Dhabi and cannot be used in other emirates of the UAE. In Dubai, a similar payment card called the Nol card is utilized for public transport payments.
Here’s a breakdown of the various types of Hafilat cards available, where to acquire them, and their advantages:
Types Of Hafilat Card
The Abu Dhabi Hafilat card comes in different variants:
Contactless Smart Ticket (CST)
This temporary card is valid for 30 days and is provided free of charge. However, users need to load credit onto it to utilize public transport services.
Personalized Hafilat Card
This smart card is specifically for Abu Dhabi bus users. It can be personalized or used anonymously. Upon boarding and exiting a bus, the card is scanned by a validator. It automatically deducts the appropriate fare from the card’s balance. This card is valid for five years, with an initial fee of 10 AED.
Smart Card for Students, Seniors, and Special Needs Citizens
Priced at AED 5, this card is valid for five years from the date of purchase. It offers discounted fares for eligible individuals.
Types Of Hafilat Passes
In Abu Dhabi, various Hafilat passes cater to different commuting needs. It includes T-Purse, weekly or monthly passes, and more. Here’s an overview of Hafilat passes:
T-Purse
The T-Purse is an electronic wallet usable on regional buses and public transport within Abu Dhabi city. Users recharge Hafilat card as needed. Here are the fares for T-Purse holders:
A boarding charge of 2 AED plus an additional charge of AED 5 fils/kilometer for regional services.
A starting charge of 2 AED plus an additional 10 fils/kilometer for express or intercity services.
Weekly Pass
If you are a frequent traveler within Abu Dhabi city, choose the weekly pass. It offers unlimited bus trips for seven days, with a wallet amount of AED 30.
Monthly Pass
Similar to the weekly pass but with a longer validity, the monthly pass allows unlimited bus trips within Abu Dhabi city for 30 days. It comes with a wallet amount of AED 80.
To obtain Hafilat T-Purse, weekly, or monthly passes, users can register on the Hafilat website.
Hafilat Pass for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens can apply for a Hafilat pass, requiring a UAE ID card, resident visa, and lease contract. This pass is valid for one year and can be renewed upon document verification. It provides unlimited bus rides for senior citizens in Abu Dhabi.
Hafilat Pass for Special People
Individuals with special needs can access unlimited bus services for one year through Hafilat in Abu Dhabi. Applicants need to register with a UAE ID and a valid medical certificate.
Hafilat Pass for Students
Students in Abu Dhabi can apply for a Hafilat pass by providing a UAE ID card and student card. This pass is valid for one year and requires document verification and renewal.
How to Register for Hafilat Card?
- Go to the Hafilat cards website.
- Locate the green tab labeled “Register here” on the right side of the screen.
- Click on the tab to access a pre-registration form where you’ll need to provide the following personal details:
Full name
Date of birth
Emirates ID number
Address details including street number, location, street name, villa or apartment number
Zip code (type 0000)
Town (enter your Emirate or district in Abu Dhabi)
Nationality
Phone number
Email address
Upload a personal photograph.
Create a password for your Hafilat account. - Check your registered email address for a verification link sent by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). Click on the link to confirm your registration and log in to your account using your email address and password.
- Confirm Your Details and Upload Emirates ID:
Once logged in, review the details entered in the registration form and click on the “save” tab. - Proceed to the “evidences” page where you will select the type of card you require:
Senior citizen
Personal card
Student card - Upload your Emirates ID as verification for the selected card type.
- Click on “confirm” to finalize the registration process and receive a printout of your card details.
- To obtain the physical card, visit the nearest Bus Terminal and present the printout. You will be required to pay for the card, with costs ranging from Dh5 to Dh10 depending on the card type selected.
Where To Purchase Hafilat Cards in Abu Dhabi?
If you’re looking to acquire a Hafilat card or pass in Abu Dhabi, here’s where you can find them:
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Bus Stations
Ticket vending machines and counters are present at various bus stations across Abu Dhabi. They offer Hafilat cards and passes for purchase.
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Ticket Vending Machines
These machines are located at bus stations. It provides a convenient option for purchasing Hafilat cards and passes.
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Ticket Counters
Similarly, ticket counters at bus stations also offer Hafilat cards and passes for commuters.
Additionally, users can obtain Hafilat passes or T-Purse directly from the bus stations and vending machines. Remember, it’s essential for users of Hafilat passes to tap the card when boarding and disembarking from the bus. Failure to do so may result in fines imposed by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC).
Locations to Purchase Hafilat Card
For your convenience, here are some locations in Abu Dhabi where you can purchase Hafilat cards:
- Abu Dhabi International Airport
- Bani Yas Bus Station
- Mussafah Bus Station
- Shahama Bus Station
- Al-Ain Bus Station
- Al-Sila Bus Station
- Ghayathi Bus Station
- Madinat Zayed Bus Station
These locations serve as convenient points for acquiring Hafilat cards and passes. Thus, ensuring easy access for commuters across the Emirate.
How to Register for a Hafilat Card Online?
To register for a Hafilat card online, users can visit the Hafilat Darb website. Or you can download the Darbi Mobile App available for iOS and Android devices. During registration, public transport users are required to submit the following documents:
- ID card or passport copy
- Residence visa
Registration fee of AED 5 for students, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs. For a standard Hafilat smart card, the registration fee is AED 10.
How to Recharge Hafilat Card in Abu Dhabi?
Recharging your Hafilat bus card in Abu Dhabi is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official Hafilat website.
- Navigate to the relevant section for recharging, usually clearly labeled on the homepage.
If you don’t require a personalized card, you can skip the registration process and proceed directly to recharging. - Enter your personal details as required.
- Check hafilat card balance to determine how much credit you need to add.
- Select the desired credit amount from the available options, typically ranging from AED 10 to AED 100 in multiples of five.
- Confirm your selection and proceed to the payment section.
- Enter your card details and follow the prompts to complete the payment process.
- Upon successful payment, you’ll receive an order number, as well as text message and email confirmations.
- Allow up to 48 hours for the credited amount to reflect in your card balance. If you need immediate credit for travel, consider using analogue kiosks available for topping up.
- Additionally, you can purchase Hafilat card credit from various recharging stations and convenience stores. These include sales and recharge machines, Hafilat recharge ticket vending machines and much more.
- Furthermore, users have the option to utilize online services such as the Darbi app or the official Hafilat website.
Similar to the Nol card in Dubai, the Hafilat card in Abu Dhabi is valid for regional and intercity buses. You can obtain a Hafilat card from vending machines or ticket office machine counters. Just you need to submit the necessary documents.
How much does a trip cost?
The fare for your journey depends on whether you’re traveling within the city of Abu Dhabi or from suburbs like Madinat Zayed or Musaffah to the main city area. Inter-city trips have slightly higher costs.
- Local trips (within Abu Dhabi city): Dh2
- Regional trips (to suburbs): Dh2 + Dh0.05 per kilometer
- Intercity trips (between emirates): Dh10 + Dh0.1 per kilometer
Bus Routes
Abu Dhabi’s public bus system is divided into two main networks: region and city.
- Bus numbers starting with ‘A’ travel to and from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
- Express buses are denoted by ‘x’.
- Mini-buses are represented by ‘M’.
How to find a public bus route?
To find a bus route between two locations, visit the Darbi website and select the ‘Journey Planning’ option. Enter your starting and destination locations along with your preferred time. The website will provide you with a possible route and the bus you need to take to reach your destination.
The ITC has also collaborated with Google to provide updated bus routes on Google Maps. You can find available buses in your area by selecting the bus icon on the map within the Google Maps application.
Conclusion
The Hafilat Card offers a convenient and efficient commuting solution for travelers in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re visiting the city for leisure or business from Dubai, this card streamlines your travel experience.
The Hafilat Card is an essential companion for navigating Abu Dhabi’s public transportation system. It is easy to use, cost-effective, and reliable. Don’t let travel hassles hold you back—get your Hafilat Card today and bid farewell to transportation woes!
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