If you're taking a bus in the UAE, you won't be able to pay by cash on board — you'll need to have a public transport card. Dubai commuters use while those in Sharjah have Sayer and those in Ajman have Masaar. If you're in Abu Dhabi, you'll need to get a card called Hafilat (an Arabic word that means 'buses').
Used to pay public transport fares in Abu Dhabi, Hafilat smart cards are tapped on reader devices before a passenger boards or leaves the bus. You'll have to ensure the card is valid and contains enough credits.
The is Dh2 — plus an additional 5 fils for every kilometre crossed. The cost is capped at Dh5 per journey.
There are two types of Hafilat cards — anonymous and personalised — and they can be topped up with certain fare amounts or passes for 'unlimited rides' within a specific period. Here's a guide:
Anybody can get this card without having to submit any ID. All you have to do is pay the fee and you'll be handed the card, which you can use instantly. However, in case of damage or loss, you won't be able to retrieve your balance — something that you can do if you opt for the personalised version.
This card requires users to submit an ID and a photo. Besides being able to transfer credits in case the card is lost or damaged, the personalised version of Hafilat also allows eligible users to avail of special annual permits
You can keep a maximum of Dh150 in your Hafilat card but this will be valid only for three months from the recharge date. To prevent the balance from expiring, just tap the card on sales and recharge machines if you cannot use it for travel.
You may recharge your card with certain amounts — however, if you're a regular bus commuter, it could be more convenient and affordable to load up your Hafilat with a "public transport pass".
With public transport passes, users pay a certain amount to get "unlimited bus rides" within a specific period — either seven or 30 days. These can be used for trips within the city and its suburbs in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.
These passes are available to users of both anonymous and personalised cards. You can get them at on-site recharge stations.
Students, seniors aged 55 and above, and people of determination can avail of annual permits at subsidised rates. They need to have personalised Hafilat cards to claim the benefit.
These permits can be obtained at the same recharge counters and customer happiness centres.
By paying Dh500 for the annual permit, they get unlimited free bus rides across Abu Dhabi for a year (intercity buses are not included).
This annual permit is free, giving them unlimited free bus rides across Abu Dhabi for a year (intercity buses are not included).
The permit is given free to them, plus one companion. Both person of determination and his/her companion can take unlimited bus rides across the emirate for a year.
