The Hafilat Card is Abu Dhabi’s official smart payment system for public transport. Issued by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), it enables contactless fare payment on buses and selected ferry services across the Emirate.
Whether you’re traveling on the A2 bus route, commuting from Mussafah Bus Station, or taking the 117 bus to Sharjah, the Hafilat Card is essential for hassle-free public transport in Abu Dhabi.
What Is the Hafilat Card?
The Hafilat Card is a rechargeable, contactless smart card used to pay for fares on ITC-operated buses and services in Abu Dhabi.
Features:
- Tap-in, tap-out functionality
- Compatible with local, intercity, and school buses
- Online and kiosk-based recharges
- Special categories for students, seniors, and people of determination
🚫 Hafilat cards do not work on Dubai’s RTA network. For Dubai Metro or the F36 bus route, use the Nol Card.
Types of Hafilat Cards Available
The system supports multiple card types depending on eligibility and usage.
| Card Type | For Whom | Benefits | Validity |
| Anonymous Card | General Public | Standard fares | 5 years |
| Personalized Card | Students, Seniors, PoD | Discounted fare zones | 5 years |
| Weekly/Monthly Pass | Daily commuters | Unlimited in specific zones | 7–30 days |
| School Bus Card | School students | Access to school buses | Term-based |
🎟 Government employees can explore discounts with the Fazaa Card.
Where to Buy a Hafilat Card in Abu Dhabi
You can purchase or apply for a Hafilat card from:
- Major Abu Dhabi Bus Terminals
- Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)
- ITC Customer Happiness Centres
- Designated counters at schools/universities
- Official Hafilat Portal
📍 If you’re near Mussafah Bus Station, a dedicated vending kiosk is available.
How to Recharge a Hafilat Card
Recharging is possible through various official channels:
- TVMs at stations
- Hafilat Online Portal
- Mobile apps (Payit, ADCB, etc.)
- In-person at ITC service desks
| Method | Reflect Time | Access Channel |
| Ticket Machine | Instant | At all major stations |
| Online Portal | Up to 15 min | hafilat.darb.ae |
| Mobile Payment Apps | Instant–10 min | Depending on your provider |
💰 Minimum top-up: AED 10
📈 Max balance: AED 150
How to Check Hafilat Card Balance
Checking your Hafilat balance is easy:
- Online via Hafilat balance page
- Ticket Machines at stations
- On Bus—tap your card on the reader, screen will display balance
🔍 Before taking long rides like Bus 117 to Sharjah or 67 Bus to Al Ghubaiba, ensure sufficient balance.
Abu Dhabi Bus Fare Zones & Pricing
The fare depends on the number of fare zones crossed.
| Trip Category | Zones Travelled | Fare (AED) |
| Local Trip | 1 Zone | AED 2.00 |
| Medium Trip | 2 Zones | AED 4.00 |
| Intercity Travel | 3+ Zones | AED 6.00 |
Example:
- Mussafah to Khalifa City: AED 4
- Abu Dhabi to Sharjah on Bus 117: AED 6+
Intercity Routes Where Hafilat is Accepted
You can use Hafilat on most intercity and express buses managed by ITC.
Covered Routes Include:
🚫 For RTA-only buses like F11 or 13B, use a Nol Card.
Where You Can Use the Hafilat Card
The card works across Abu Dhabi city buses, intercity coaches, and select ferry routes.
Key Stations & Terminals:
- Mussafah Bus Station
- Al Wahda Terminal
- Shahama New Terminal
- Baniyas Main Bus Station
- Al Ain Central Station
🧭 Need to switch to Dubai? Take the X25 or 117 bus and continue via the Dubai Metro from Burjuman Station.
How to Apply for a Personalized Hafilat Card
To apply, prepare the following:
- Emirates ID
- Passport-size photo
- Student/Senior/PoD proof
Submit Applications:
- At ITC Customer Centres
- Via the Hafilat official site
📩 Card delivery or pickup within 1–3 business days.
Is There a Hafilat App?
The official Hafilat app is in development but not yet released.
Features will soon be integrated into:
- Darb App
- ITC Smart App (iOS & Android)
You’ll soon be able to recharge, track balance, and view bus times through mobile.
FAQs About the Hafilat Card
Can I use my Nol Card in Abu Dhabi?
No. Only Hafilat is valid in Abu Dhabi.
Can I refund or replace a lost Hafilat Card?
Yes. Report it at an ITC service centre. You can get a replacement and restore your balance.
What is the minimum balance for intercity travel?
AED 6 is recommended, especially on Bus 117 or Bus 111.
Can tourists use the card?
Yes. Anonymous cards are available at terminals like Mussafah Station.
Helpful Tools & Related Travel Links
Here are useful guides to combine with your Hafilat journey:
