How to use the Hafilat Card in Abu Dhabi

Transportation is a vital component of any modern city, facilitating the movement of people and goods. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the authorities have taken significant steps to enhance the public transportation system.

One of these steps is the introduction of the Hafilat card by the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi. This initiative, launched in 2015, aimed to simplify the process of paying for public transport services, eliminating the need for cash payments.

In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Hafilat card, from its types and benefits to where and how to obtain one.

Types of Hafilat Cards

The Hafilat card is designed to make commuting in Abu Dhabi more convenient and efficient. There are several types of Hafilat cards to cater to different needs:

1. Contactless Smart Ticket (CST): This temporary card is valid for 30 days and can be obtained at no cost. However, users need to load credit onto the card to pay for public transport services.
2. Personalized Hafilat Card: This smart card is designed for public bus users in Abu Dhabi and can be personalized or used anonymously. When boarding a bus, the card is automatically scanned, and the appropriate fare is deducted from the card’s balance. This card is valid for five years and has an initial charge of 10 AED.
3. Smart Card for Students, Seniors, and Special Needs Citizens: Designed to cater to the specific needs of these groups, this card costs 5 AED and is valid for five years from the date of purchase.

Types of Hafilat Passes

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) in Abu Dhabi has introduced various passes that offer additional convenience and savings for regular commuters. These passes include:

1. T-Purse: The T-Purse is an electronic wallet that can be used for regional buses and public transport within Abu Dhabi city. Users can recharge this wallet, and it has specific fares for regional and express/intercity services.
2. Weekly Pass: For those who use public transport frequently, the weekly pass offers unlimited bus trips within Abu Dhabi city for seven days. It comes with a wallet amount of 30 AED.
3. Monthly Pass: Similar to the weekly pass, the monthly pass provides unlimited bus trips within Abu Dhabi city for 30 days. It offers a wallet amount of 80 AED.

Commuters can register for these passes through the Hafilat website. Additionally, special passes are available for students, senior citizens, and special needs individuals.

Hafilat Pass for Senior Citizens, Special Needs Individuals, and Students

To obtain a Hafilat pass, senior citizens, special needs individuals, and students need to register with the required documentation. Senior citizens should provide a UAE ID card, a resident visa, and a lease contract, and the pass is valid for one year.

Special needs individuals need a UAE ID and a valid medical certificate. Students can avail of the pass by registering with a UAE ID card and a student card, and it is valid for one year.

Where to buy a Hafilat card in Abu Dhabi

Hafilat cards and T-Purse can be purchased from various locations, including bus stations, ticket vending machines, and ticket counters. Commuters should remember to punch their cards when entering and exiting the bus to avoid fines imposed by the ITC.

Additionally, registration for Hafilat cards requires the submission of the following documents: an ID card or passport copy, a residence visa, and a registration fee of 5 AED for students, senior citizens, and special needs individuals. The fee for a regular Hafilat smart card registration is 10 AED.

Hafilat Card Machine Locations

You can purchase Hafilat cards and top up your balance at various locations across Abu Dhabi, including the Abu Dhabi International Airport and bus stations in Bani Yas, Mussafah, Shahama, Al-Ain, Al-Sila, Ghayathi, and Madinat Zayed. These convenient locations make it easy for residents and visitors to access Hafilat services.

How to Recharge Hafilat Bus Card in Abu Dhabi

Recharging a Hafilat card in Abu Dhabi is a straightforward process. You can do it online through the Hafilat website, where you can check your balance, select the desired credit amount, and make a payment.

Alternatively, you can purchase Hafilat card credit from recharging stations and convenience stores across the city. The credit will be loaded onto your card within 48 hours of a successful payment.

The Hafilat card is a versatile and efficient solution for those using public transport in Abu Dhabi, offering convenience, savings, and a seamless travel experience. Whether you’re a student, a senior citizen, or a regular commuter, there’s a Hafilat card or pass that can make your daily journeys easier and more affordable.

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