Hafilat Balance Check & Balance Inquiry Online 2026

Hafilat Card Balance Check

Enter your 16-digit Hafilat card number to check your current balance

šŸ’” Tip: Your balance is updated every 15 minutes

Hafilat Balance Check and Recharge Hafilat Card have become essential parts of life, especially if you Travel in Public Transport in the UAE daily. Whether you are a student, a Worker, a Visitor or a Resident of the UAE.

To make your traveling smooth and relaxed, I have explained how to check your Hafilat Card Balance and ways to recharge it, plus essential Fares and Passes so that you just not only learn how to check Balance but also implement it in real life.

What is Hafilat Card and why you need it?

Hafilat is an advanced Travel Card for Public Buses. It is designed to enhance ease; you simply have to tap the card on the validator when you board or get off the bus, and the machine will automatically deduct the fare from your card.

Why is it needed?

  • Simplify public transport payments 
  • Save time  
  • Improve efficiency (makes boarding smoother and reduces waiting times).
  • Support a smart city system (It helps Abu Dhabi manage public transport data and planning digitally.)
  • Easy Reloading and Discounts
What is Hafilat Card and why you need it?

Hafilat Balance Check Methods 2026

There are two methods by using Hafilat card Users can check Hafilat Balance.

How to check Hafilat Balance Check Methods 2025
Hafilat Balance Check

Online Methods

  • Darb Mobile App (Hafilat balance inquiry)
  • Hafilat Online Portal (hafilat.darb.ae)
  • Payit Wallet App

Offline/Self-Service Methods

  • SMS Service (Text ā€œBAL <card-number>ā€ to 3009)
  • Ticket Vending Machines / Sales & Recharge Machines / Self-Service Kiosks
  • Onboard Bus Readers (Intercity Bus Recharge Devices)
  • Customer Service / In-Person Service Counters
  • Retail Partner Outlets (Lulu, SPAR etc)

Hafilat Balance Check Methods (Online)

Hafilat Card Balance Check Via Abu Dhabi Tolling system Website

Step 1:Open the Website and Log in

  • Go to the website: DARB Platform
  • Create an account by adding Email, Emirates ID and Traffic number with Password.
  • For security, make sure the page shows a padlock icon in the address bar (HTTPS) before entering any hafilat balance check number.
Hafilat Card Balance Check Via Abu Dhabi Tolling systemĀ Website
Login or Register on Official Website for Hafilat balance check and inquiry

Step 2: Find the Hafilat ā€œRecharge Cardā€ service

  • Click the menu icon (☰) at the top-left of the Darb site.
  • Choose Public Transport → Hafilat Cards.
  • Look for and click Online Services → Recharge Card

Why this matters: The ā€˜Recharge Card’ page is where you can check how much money is on your card and see your recent transactions.

Step 3:Enter your card serial number

  • On the recharge page find the Card Serial Number field.
  • Carefully type the full 16-digit serial number exactly as it appears on the back of your Hafilat card. (No spaces, unless shown.)
  • Complete any CAPTCHA to prove you’re human.

The 16-digit serial is printed on the back of the physical Hafilat card ,check carefully and copy digits exactly.

Don’t share your full card serial or screenshots with unknown people or public forums.

Enter Your hafilat card number for  hafilat balance inquiry online
Submit and view Your Hafilat Balance check on screen

Step 4:  Submit and view your balance

  • Click the Submit button under the serial entry field.
  • The page should immediately show:
  • Current balance (in AED)
  • Expiry date (if the card has one)
  • Last five transactions (dates, routes or descriptions where available)

Take a screenshot of your card showing hafilat card online check balance and expiry date. This makes it easier to plan your spending and helps if you need to call customer support.

Extra small but useful details

  • Top-ups (Before adding money, check which payment methods are accepted online or at authorized locations).
  •  Balance is in AED (Make sure to plan your top-ups based on that.)
  • Mobile vs Desktop (You can use the site on your phone, but using a computer shows transaction tables more clearly).
  • Keep your card number safe (Don’t share the 16-digit card number; only enter it on official Darb/ITC pages).

Hafilat Balance Check with Darb Mobile App

Hafilat Balance Check with Darb Mobile App
Hafilat Balance check via Darb App

Step 1:Download and Install the Darb App

  • iPhone/iPad: Open the App Store, search for ā€œDarb Abu Dhabi Mobile appā€, and click Get.
  • Android: Open Google Play Store, search ā€œDarb Abu Dhabiā€, and tap Install.

Make sure you download the official app to avoid fake versions.

Download and install Your Hafilat DARB App for Hafilat card balance check
Login Your Hafilat card account for hafilat balance

Step 2: Create an Account or Log In

  • Open the app.
  • Click Sign Up in case if you are new, otherwise log in if you already have an account.
  • New users will enter their Mobile number, email address and create a password.
  • Verify your account using the OTP sent to your phone.

Keep your login details safe and don’t share your OTP with anyone.

Step 3: Add or Link Your Hafilat Card to Account

  • On the home screen, tap the ā€œ+ā€ (plus) icon at the bottom.
  • Select ā€œRecharge Hafilat Cardā€.
    Enter your 16-digit Hafilat card serial number exactly as printed on the back of the card.
  • Tap Add Card to link it to your account.

Double-check the serial number; even one wrong digit will prevent the card from being recognized.

Click on the Recharge Hafilat Card for balance inquiry hafilat online
View Hafilat Balance via Darb APP

Step 4: Check Hafilat Balance

  • On the app home screen, tap Hafilat Cards or My Cards
  • Select your linked card.
  • You’ll see your current balance, expiry date, and recent transactions immediately.

 Balances are shown in AED, and recent transactions include your last five taps or recharges.

Step 5: Manage and Keep Track

  • Screenshot your balance screen for your records.
  • Taking a Screenshot helps to keep a record of your Balances
  • To top up(Add funds), tap Top Up, select an amount, and pay via credit/debit card or Payit wallet.
  • Tap Transaction History to review your last five trips and recharges.

If you need instant updates after a recharge, tap your card on a bus validator or recharge machine. Sometimes, online updates take a few minutes.

3. How to check Hafilat Balance via Payit Wallet App

How to check Hafilat Balance via Payit Wallet App

Step 1: Install or Update Payit

  • iPhone/iPad: Open the App Store, search ā€œPayit  Digital Wallet UAEā€, and click to  Get it.
  • Android: Open Google Play Store, search ā€œPayit UAEā€, and tap Install.
  • Make sure the app is updated to the latest version to access all  Hafilat features.

Using the latest version ensures all payment and balance features work smoothly.

Step 2: Create an Account or Log In

  • Open Payit.
  • Enter your mobile number, email, and create a password to log in.
  • Verify your number via the OTP sent to your phone.

Keep your OTP and login credentials safe; never share them.

Step 3: Access Hafilat Services

  • On the Payit dashboard, tap UAE Bills & Recharge.
  • Select Public Transport from the category list.
  • Tap Hafilat Card Balance & Recharge.

This section handles all Hafilat-related actions, including viewing balances and topping up.

Step 4: Add or Select Your Hafilat Card

  • 1. If your card is not linked, tap Add New Card.
  • 2 . Enter your 16-digit Hafilat card serial number exactly as printed on your card.
  • 3. Tap Save to link the card.
  • 4 . To check the balance, simply select the linked card from the list.

Step 5:View Balance and Card Details

Once you select your card, Payit shows:

  • Available Balance (AED)
  • Expiry Date
  • Recent Top-ups (last five)

 Tap Refresh to get real-time updates. Balances usually update instantly after using the app, but card readers may take a few minutes to sync (update and match information between devices).This guide ensures you can view, track, and recharge your Hafilat card easily through Payit, keeping your travel smooth and stress-free.

Hafilat Balance Checking Methods (Offline)

Check Hafilat Card Balance Through SMS

Check Hafilat Card Balance Through SMS

Open your Messaging App 

  • Type: BAL 1234567890123456. Please replace 1234… with your 16-digit Hafilat card serial (no extra spaces).
  • Send the message to 3009.
    You should get an SMS reply showing your current balance (AED) and expiry/date info.
  • Save a screenshot or write down the balance.

A little more detail (so it never fails)

  • Write BAL<space>Your 16-digit Serial Card Number.
  • Make sure your phone has enough credit 
  • If you don’t get a reply, wait a few minutes and resend exactly the same message; sometimes there’s a small delay.

Note: Kindly use your Registered Mobile Number to send an SMS Message for Hafilat Balance Check  to 3009

Hafilat Balance Check at Ticket Vending Machines (TVM)

 If your internet is unstable or you forget to check your balance before traveling, you can still see it instantly at BUS stations using Ticket Vending Machines. This helps you plan your future trips.

Hafilat Balance Check at Ticket Vending Machines (TVM)

Locations:

  • Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Main City Terminal)
  • Al Ain Bus Terminal (Intercity Departure Hall)
  • Mussafah Central Interchange
  • Zayed Sports City Bus Terminal
  • Mushrif Mall Interchange
  • Khalifa City A Bus Station
  • Al Wahda Mall Bus Station
  • Baniyas East and West Bus Stops (station shelters)
  • Al Dhafra Region Bus Terminal (for routes to Ruwais and Delma Island)

Each of these locations features approved, ITC-certified terminals supporting secure balance inquiry, card top-up, new card issuance, and receipt printing.

1. Find a Ticket Vending Machine

  • TVMs are available at major bus stations, interchange terminals, and airport transfer areas.
  • Look for machines labeled ā€œRecharge & Balance Inquiryā€ or with the TVM icon.

These machines are usually near entrances or next to bus schedules.

2. Activate the Machine and Choose Language

  • Tap the screen or press any button to activate the TVM.
  • Select your preferred language (English or Arabic).

 Choosing English makes your work easier if you’re not fluent in Arabic.

3. Insert or Tap Your Hafilat Card

  • Locate the card reader slot or NFC tap area on the machine.
  • Either insert your card into the slot or tap it on the contactless icon.
  • Wait a few seconds while the machine reads your card.

Make sure the card is inserted the right way , look for the arrows or chip orientation on the machine.

4. Select Balance Inquiry

  • From the menu, tap ā€œBalance Inquiryā€ or ā€œCheck Balance.ā€
  • The machine will process your request and display your card details.

This option does not deduct any balance; it’s free to check.

5. View and Print Hafilat Balance

  • The screen will show you the following data:
  • Available Balance (AED)
  • Card Expiry Date
  • etc
  • If you want a paper copy, tap ā€œPrint Receipt.ā€

Even if the printer fails, you can always note the balance from the screen.

6. Remove Your Card

  • When prompted, take your card out of the machine.
    Double-check it’s returned before leaving.

 Keep your card safe; TVMs won’t return it if you walk away too quickly.

Troubleshooting & Fixes

  • Card Orientation: Ensure the chip or magnetic stripe faces the correct direction.
  • Unresponsive Screen: Press the Help button or try another machine.
  • Receipt Issues: If the receipt doesn’t print, just write down the balance or try printing again.
  • Machine Malfunctions: Use a nearby TVM or visit a service counter.
  • Hygiene Tip: Use a sanitized finger when touching public screens.

TVMs give you instant, offline access to your Hafilat balance. Perfect for commuters who don’t want to use apps or the internet.

3. Checking Hafilat Card Balance Inquiry through Bus Recharge Devices

Location:

Intercity Bus Recharge Devices(NFC Readers) are found near the front entrance of every route(the path or direction a bus follows regularly). These Routes move from Abu Dhabi to  Al Ain, Ruwais, Delma Island, Ghayathi, Madinat Zayed, Liwa Oasis, and Fossil Rock, etc.

Checking Hafilat Card Balance Inquiry through Bus Recharge Devices

Find the Device and Activate

  • Tap the specified Button or gently touch the screen to activate the machine.
  • The Screen will give you Device  Language Selection options(Choose English or Arabic for convenience)

Tap Your Hafilat Card

  • Show your Card firmly in front of the NFC Tap Area, which is marked withthe  Hafilat logo.
  • After a few seconds, the device will beep or Display a Notification to confirm that the device has read your card successfully.

Select ā€œBalance Inquiryā€

  • On the main menu list, tap ā€œBalance Inquiryā€ or ā€œCheck Hfilat Card Balance.ā€
  • The device will access stored information from your Card and the screen will display the following:

Current Balance and expiry dates, and recent transactions, etc.

Note: The Print option is not available on these devices, so it’s better to take a screenshot of your Balance from your mobile phone.

Hafilat Balance Check Via Customer Support

Identify the Nearest Customer Hafilat  Service Center

Common centers include:

Hafilat Balance Check Via Customer Support
  • Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station
  • Al Ain Bus Terminal
  • Abu Dhabi International Airport (Arrivals Hall)
  • Selected Lulu Hypermarket branches

Things you should have:

  • Bring your physical Hafilat card.
  • For personalized cards, carry your Emirates ID to verify ownership.
  • For anonymous card(The card not linked to your personal details, like ID), only the card itself is required.

Go to the Service Desk

  • Go to the Hfilat Counter or Customer Happiness desk 
  • Tell the staff that you want to check your Hafilat Card Balance 
  • If required, then provide them with your Card (Emirated ID, if applicable)

Staff will process your Data 

  • The service man will scan or tap your card on the terminal device they have.
  • Then they will show your current balance and recent transactions on the screen.

Review and Confirm Details

  • Verify the displayed balance and expiry date.
  • Ask for a printed receipt if you need a paper record.
  • Thank the agent and retrieve your card (and ID).

5. How to Check Hafilat Balance Inquiry at Retail Partner Outlets

Retail Partner Outlets are approved shops and service centres like LuLu Hypermarkets, LuLu Exchange Branches etc, The public stores where you can manage your Hafilat Card in person without going to a Transport Centre. These outlets make it easy to check your Balance or recharge your card, plus doing everyday tasks like Grocery Shopping or Exchanging Money matters. 

Check Hafilat Balance Inquiry at Retail PartnerĀ Outlets

How to check Hafilat Balance:

  • 1. Visit any Participating outlet and find the Hafilat Service Counter 
  • 2. Reach the staff desk and request them that you want to check the balance 
  • 3. Give them your Physical Hafilat Card and also your personal details 
  • 4. The attendant will scan your card and your Hafilat Card Balance will display on the screen.
  • 5. Request a printed receipt if you need a paper record for any files or travel planning.

Hafilat Fine Check

Hafilat is Abu Dhabi’s official smart card for public transportation. It makes bus travel easy, cashless, and efficient for residents and visitors. The Hafilat system also records transport violations and fines.

These fines may occur if you travel without a valid ticket, misuse discount cards, or break public transport rules. Checking Hafilat fines online is important. It helps you avoid extra penalties, card suspension, and travel inconvenience.

You can easily perform a Hafilat fine inquiry online by following these steps:

  • Visit the official Hafilat portal at Darb Website
  • Go to the Fine Inquiry or Payment section
  • Enter your Hafilat card number or Emirates ID
  • View all outstanding Hafilat fines and violation details
  • Check fine amounts, issue dates, and payment deadlines
  • Choose a secure online payment method
  • Complete the payment through the portal
  • Receive instant payment confirmation

The process is fast, secure, and accessible anytime.

Choosing The Best Methods for Hafilat Balance Check

Darb Mobile App

  • Accessibility: iOS & Android devices
  • Speed: Instant
  • Convenience: High – available anywhere with internet
  • Notes: Shows balance, expiry, transactions; secure login

Hafilat Online Portal

  • Accessibility: Web browser
  • Speed: Instant
  • Convenience: High – works on desktop or mobile browser
  • Notes: Requires account registration; full history available

Payit Wallet App

  • Accessibility: iOS & Android devices
  • Speed: Instant
  • Convenience: High – integrates Hafilat within wallet app
  • Notes: Requires Payit setup; supports top-up

SMS Service

  • (ā€œBAL <card-number>ā€ to 3009)
  • Accessibility: Any mobile phone
  • Speed: ~30 seconds
  • Convenience: Medium – no internet needed
  • Notes: Charges may apply; basic balance only

TVM / Sales & Recharge / Kiosk

  • Accessibility: Major stations, malls, outlets
  • Speed: ~1 minute
  • Convenience: Medium – in-person, receipt option
  • Notes: Supports top-up, new cards, receipts

Onboard Bus Readers

  • Accessibility: All intercity buses
  • Speed: Instant
  • Convenience: Low – only when boarding intercity buses
  • Notes: Balance only; no receipt or recharge

Customer Service Counters

  • Accessibility: ITC centres, station desks
  • Speed: ~2 minutes
  • Convenience: Medium – staffed assistance
  • Notes: Can view expiry, transactions, print receipt

Retail Partner Outlets

  • Accessibility: Lulu, SPAR, Co-op branches
  • Speed: ~2 minutes
  • Convenience: Medium – combine with shopping
  • Notes: Supports top-up and receipts; ID required for personalized cards

Hafilat Balance Check Video Guide

Tips For Maintaining a Sufficient Hafilat Card Balance 

Enable Auto-Recharge Option

From settings, set up an automatic top-up in the Darb Mobile App or Payit Wallet App, so whenever your Balance finishes, the system automatically adds funds to your Card. This ensures you never run out of credit and makes your work smoother.

Set a Quick Weekly Reminder

Use your phone’s calendar or reminder app to check your Hafilat balance every Friday. It’s a simple habit that protects you from Balance Fall matters.

Link Your Card for Faster Top-Ups

Add your debit or credit card to the Darb App or Hafilat Online Portal. Once linked, you can recharge in just one tap; no need to re-enter your details every time.

Top Up While Running Errands

Next time you’re at Lulu, SPAR, or Co-op, recharge your Hafilat card right there. It’s a quick advantage to your shopping trip and saves you from making a separate journey just to top up.

Keep an Eye on Your Travel Habits

Check your monthly transaction history in the Darb App. You’ll spot patterns — like busier weekends or event days,so you can plan and recharge before you run low.

Get Low-Balance Alerts by SMS

Don’t like surprises? Text ā€œALERT <your card number>ā€ to 3009 to get notified when your balance drops below AED 10. You’ll know exactly when it’s time to recharge.

Always Keep a Small amount

Try to maintain at least AED 20 on your card. It’s your safety cushion for unexpected trips or route changes — no more declined taps when you’re in a rush.

Recharge in Larger Amounts

Top up AED 100 or more whenever possible. You’ll recharge less often, and sometimes there are special offers for bulk top-ups!

Check Before Intercity Trips

Before hopping on an intercity bus, quickly check your balance on the onboard reader or the Darb App. If it’s low, recharge at a nearby ticket vending machine (TVM) to avoid travel interruptions.

Know All Your Recharge Options

Whether online (Darb App, Payit) or offline (TVMs, retail partners), get familiar with multiple ways to recharge. In this way, your work becomes smoother and you can check the Balance at different portals if needed.

Hafilat Recharge Online

Hafilat Recharge Online

Recharging your Hafilat Card ensures an Effortless and relaxed journey. Whether you are using Bus Travels or other Transport Services. Topping up(Adding Money) is a very easy and quick way. I am providing straightforward Online and offline Methods to recharge your Hafilat Card.

Recharge your Hafilat Card through the Online Website

  • Go to the official website and log in or Register first.
  • From the Dashboard, Click ā€œHafilat Card Servicesā€.
  • Then select Top up Option from the list and enter your 16 Digit Card Number.
  • Then select the Recharge Amount(Usually from AED 10 TO 500 per transaction), select according to your needs.
  • Now, ADD Payment details using your Visa, MasterCard and Mada, etc and also you need to enter the Card number, Expiry, CVV, and billing address.
  • For Enhanced Verification, your bank will request 3D Secure (OTP) and authentication.
  • Review all your data: Card ID, Recharge amount and service fee(If any)
  • Click Confirm → Get OTP on your phone → Type it in → Action is done.
  • The portal will show a Success message and update your Balance in a few seconds. You can also download or email the PDF receipt for your records, and review all your previous top-ups anytime under the ā€œTransaction Historyā€ section.

Tips for a Smooth Hafilat Recharge Experience

Plan Ahead

  • Check  YOUR Balance: Use the Darb App or Payit before traveling.
    Recharge at Quiet Times: Try 10 to 12 AM or 2 to 4 PM to avoid lines.
  • Combine with Errands: Top up while shopping at Lulu, SPAR, or Co-op.

Recharge Smartly

  • Top Up More: Add AED 100–200 at once to save time.
  • Save Your Card Info: Store your payment details in Darb or Payit for quick recharges.
  • Keep Cash Handy: Carry AED 20–50 for emergencies.
  • Track Usage: Check your weekly history in the app to plan.

Use Advanced Features 

  • Enable Alerts: Turn on low-balance notifications.
  • Install Both Apps: Keep Darb and Payit for backup.
  • Use SMS Backup: Text BAL <card-number> to 3009 for balance checks offline.
  • Bookmark Website: Save https://hafilat.darb.ae for easy desktop access.

Save More

  • Buy Passes: Use weekly (AED 35) or monthly (AED 80) unlimited passes for regular travel.
  • Keep Receipts: Helps with record-keeping and reimbursements.
  • Manage Multiple Cards: Add family cards under one account.
  • Get a Personalized Card: Link to your Emirates ID for security and balance recovery.

Stay Safe

  • Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Use secure networks for online payments.
  • Use Official Channels: Only recharge via Darb, Payit, or authorized outlets.
  • Protect Card Info: Don’t share your card number.
  • Update Contacts: Keep your phone and email current for alerts.

Maintain Regularly

  • Set Reminders: Check balance every 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Store Safely: Keep your card protected from loss or damage.
  • Plan Ahead: Recharge early during holidays or busy seasons.
  • You can contact 800 850 for any type of Hafilat Card support or Help.

Types of Hafilat Cards

Card Type

Eligibility Group

Key Benefit

Purpose

Convenience

Anonymous

Travellers & privacy-seeking users

Instant use, no personal data required

Temporary access for short-term visitors

Issued instantly on site

Personalized

Long-term residents & frequent users

Data-linked security, online services

Secure daily commuting with balance protection

Link to Darb App/portal for history

Concessionary (3 subtypes)

Students, seniors, people of determination

Discounted or free fares

Subsidized travel for eligible groups

Same issuance process as personalized

Hafilat Card and their costs

Card TypeCostValidity
Anonymous Smart Card10 AED16 years
Personalized CardFree16 years (after documents verified)
Student Card5 AED5 years
Senior Citizen Card5 AED5 years
Special Needs/Disabled Card5 AED5 years
Temporary Card (CST)Free30 days

How to get or Apply for a Hafilat Card in Abu Dhabi?(Detailed)

There are both online and offline ways to Get a Hafilat Card but I suggest you go in person. I am sure you will leave with your new  Hafilat Card in your hands.

Step 1: Eligibility and Required Documents

Card Type

Eligibility

Required Documents

Anonymous

Travellers & privacy-seeking users (age 5+)

Visitors: Original passport + copy of passport data page- Residents (optional): Copy of Emirates ID

Personalized

UAE residents & GCC nationals (age 5+)

Original Emirates ID- Valid UAE residence visa (if not printed on Emirates ID)- Copy of passport bio-data page

Concessionary (Student)

Students enrolled in UAE institutions

Valid student ID- Original Emirates ID- Copy of student ID

Concessionary (Senior)

UAE residents aged 65+

Original Emirates ID (showing age 65+)- Copy of Emirates ID

Concessionary (People of Determination)

People with approved disability certification

Official disability certificate- Original Emirates ID- Copy of disability certificate

Step 2: Find Nearby Location

Location

Address / Area

Available Card Types

ITC Headquarters Customer Service

Electra Street, Abu Dhabi

Anonymous, Personalized, Concessionary

Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station Counter

Al Wahda area (Zone 1), Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum St​

Anonymous, Personalized, Concessionary

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Arrivals Hall, Terminal 1 & 3

Anonymous, Personalized

Al Ain Intercity Bus Terminal Desk

Al Ain Central Bus Station

Anonymous, Personalized, Concessionary

Selected Lulu International Exchange

Lulu Hypermarkets across Abu Dhabi (Anonymous cards only)

Anonymous

Step 3: Enter the Branch, get a Queue Ticket and wait for your Turn

  • Go to the Counter and ask that you want to Get a new Hafilat Card. They will give you a Queue Ticket and you have to wait in the seating area.
  • When the Digital Board Displays your Number or when you get a call from the Counter 
  • Go to the Counter and Give your Documents to the Attendant.

Step 4: Your Card is ready 

  • The attendant receives your data with maybe AED 20 TO 50.
  • The attendant enters your details into the issuing system. For personalized or concessionary cards, they input your name, ID number, and contact information. They then program the card’s chip with the correct card type and initial balance, which is usually zero.
  • If the card is personalized or concessionary, the attendant laser-etches your photo and name onto the card. They check that the card is working by tapping it on an NFC reader to confirm it’s active.
  • Next, the attendant prints a receipt showing your new card number, the deposit amount, and the date of issuance. 
  • Finally, they hand the physical Hafilat card to you and provide brief instructions on how to use it, such as topping it up.

How to Buy/Apply or Get a Hafilat Card in a Glance (Summary)

You can buy hafilat card by following the simple methods explained below.

Anonymous Card

  • Price: AED 10
  • Validity: 16 years
  • Required Documents: None (no ID or personal details needed)

Special Benefits:

  • Instant purchase
  • Can be linked to Emirates ID later to recover balance if lost

Eligibility: Anyone (no restrictions)

Where to Apply:

  • Ticket Vending Machines (24/7)
  • Lulu Hypermarket / Exchange
  • Authorized retailers
  • Online at hafilat.darb.ae

Personalized Card (General)

  • Price: Free
  • Validity: 16 years

Required Documents:

  • Valid Emirates ID (for residents)
  • Passport & visa copy (for visitors)
  • Passport-sized photograph
  • Residence visa copy
  • Online application copy (if applicable)

Special Benefits:

  • Balance transferable if lost or damaged
  • Eligible for subsidized fares and special passes

Eligibility: UAE residents and visitors

Where to Apply:

  • Customer Happiness Centers
  • Online at hafilat.darb.ae (collect card at bus terminal)

Student Card

  • Price: AED 5
  • Validity: 5 years

Required Documents:

  • Valid Emirates ID
  • Valid student ID card
  • Student verification letter (on official letterhead)
  • Passport-sized photograph
  • Online application copy (if applicable)

Special Benefits:

  • Annual unlimited travel pass for AED 500
  • Requires renewal each academic year with updated enrollment documents

Eligibility: Students enrolled in educational institutions

Where to Apply:

  • Customer Happiness Centers only
  • Online pre-registration, then collect at bus terminal

Senior Citizen Card

  • Price: AED 5
  • Validity: 5 years

Required Documents:

  • Valid UAE Emirates ID
  • Residence visa copy
  • Lease contract or tenancy agreement
  • Passport-sized photograph

Special Benefits:

  • Free annual unlimited travel pass (worth AED 1,200+)
  • Must renew annually if documents remain valid

Eligibility: UAE residents aged 55 and above

Where to Apply:

  • Customer Happiness Centers only
  • Online pre-registration, then collect at bus terminal

People of Determination Card

  • Price: AED 5
  • Validity: 5 years

Required Documents:

  • Valid Emirates ID
  • Medical certificate from government facility
  • Recent medical report from an approved entity
  • Educational/psychological report (for intellectual disabilities)
  • Passport-sized photograph (white background)
  • Passport copy (if applicable)

Special Benefits:

  • Free annual unlimited travel pass for the cardholder
  • Free travel for one companion
  • Covers all Abu Dhabi buses

Eligibility: Individuals with certified physical or mental disabilities

Where to Apply:

  • Customer Happiness Centers only
  • Online pre-registration, then collect at bus terminal

Corporate / Company Card

  • Price: Varies
  • Validity: N/A

Required Documents:

  • Company trade license copy
  • Stamped company letter with representative details, email, and mobile
  • TCN (Traffic Code Number)
  • Excel sheet with vehicle details (if applicable)

Special Benefits:

  • Bulk registration for employees or company vehicles
  • Centralized management and tracking

Eligibility: Registered companies and businesses

Where to Apply:

  • Customer Happiness Centers
  • Submit through authorized company representative

How to use Hafilat Card (On the Bus)

Quick, friendly steps so every ride goes smoothly

Before you board

  • Check your card is valid. Make sure the card isn’t expired or blocked.
  • Have enough balance. Keep at least 10 AED for a one-way ride.

When you board

  • Tap in: Hold the Hafilat card on the validator (the blue/grey reader) at the entrance.
  • Wait for the beep: Don’t remove the card until you hear the confirmation beep.

When you leave 

  • Tap out: Tap the same validator at the exit. The system will deduct the correct fare automatically based on the distance traveled.
  • Confirm balance: After tapping, check the validator screen to see your remaining balance.

Important tips for darb hafilat balance check

  • Always tap both when boarding and when exiting so you’re charged the correct fare.
  • Never remove the card before the beep; the transaction may not be completed.
  • If the validator doesn’t beep or shows an error, ask the driver or a station attendant for help.

Hafilat Passes and Fares:

Hafilat Passes are travel subscriptions that let you ride as much as you want within their validity period. They can be based on time (like weekly or monthly) or on specific user categories.

Instead of paying per trip or per zone, you pay a flat fee (Fares). That means the cost is the same no matter how far you travel or how many zones you cross. This makes it easy to budget your travel and encourages more people to use public transport.

Pass Type

Description

Fare

Daily Pass

Unlimited travel on all Hafilat-enabled buses and ferries for a single calendar day

AED 12 per day

Weekly Pass

Unlimited travel for seven consecutive days from the first day of use

AED 35 per week

Monthly Pass

Unlimited rides throughout a calendar month

AED 80 per month

Student Pass

Unlimited travel for registered students during an academic term (up to one semester)

AED 120 per term*

Senior Citizen Pass

Free travel during off-peak hours; 50% discount during peak hours for UAE residents aged 65+

Free off-peak; 50% discount peak

People of Determination Pass

Unlimited free travel for riders with approved disability status

Free at all times

Silver Card (Prepaid Card)

Stored-value card charging pay-as-you-go at standard per-trip rates (e.g., AED 2 per zone)

Pay-as-you-go (e.g., AED 2 per zone)

Custom/Corporate Pass

Tailored passes for organizations or events with negotiated rates and validity periods

Variable (set by agreement)

NOTE: Student term length and fare may vary by institution and must be validated through the Hafilat portal or university transport office.

Hafilat Balance Check FAQs

Tap your card at any ticket vending machine or bus station card reader to view your remaining balance.

Tap your card at any ticket vending machine or bus station card reader to view your remaining balance.

Visit the official Hafilat website or log in to the Darb app, then enter your card number to check your balance.

Send your card number to the official Hafilat SMS service (if supported by your mobile provider) — check the latest instructions on the Hafilat website.

You can check it at any bus station machine, Lulu Hypermarket counter, or through the Darb mobile app.

Tap your card on the reader when boarding and again when exiting the bus to automatically deduct the correct fare.

Hold the card near the card reader at the bus entrance until you hear a beep or see a green light confirming the check-in.

Use your Hafilat card on any Abu Dhabi public bus by tapping it at the machine at the start and end of your trip.

Simply tap your new card at a ticket machine or bus reader to activate it for the first time.

Go to the official Hafilat website or a customer service center to register your card under your name for easier management.

A Hafilat card is Abu Dhabi’s rechargeable smart card used to pay for public bus fares quickly and conveniently.

You need at least AED 5 balance on your Hafilat card to board a bus in Abu Dhabi.

A new Hafilat card costs AED 10, which includes AED 5 for the card and AED 5 as travel credit.

The standard monthly pass costs AED 80, allowing unlimited travel on Abu Dhabi public buses.

Visit a Hafilat customer service center or a ticket vending machine to renew or replace your expired card.

Try again later or use the Darb app for balance check, recharge, and other services. You can also visit a physical service center.

Currently, the Hafilat system does not support direct integration with Apple Wallet. You can instead manage your card using the Darb app.

Visit a ticket vending machine or customer service center and follow the on-screen instructions to renew your card.

Visit a ticket vending machine or customer service center and follow the on-screen instructions to renew your card.

 Log in to the official Hafilat website, go to ā€œCard Services,ā€ and select ā€œRenew Cardā€ to complete the process online.

Check your card’s expiry date on the Hafilat website or by tapping it on a ticket vending machine.

Visit the Hafilat or Darb website, enter your Emirates ID or card number, and check for outstanding fines.

 You can pay fines directly through the Darb app or at any customer service center.

Fines can be paid at Hafilat customer service counters, bus stations, or municipality payment centers.

Currently, Hafilat does not support direct balance transfers between cards. You must use or refund the credit via a service center.

Final Thoughs

Whether you need to Recharge , check hafilat balance and understand the passes and Fares, all and everything has discussed in detail. Now,You probably know your Hafilat Card Functionality and structure and can take Advantage through your smart planning.

I really want to suggest that you should use a Darb Mobile App because it covers almost 90 percent of your Hafilat Card Balance Matters in one place.

Tasmeekh

I’m Tasmeekh—a dedicated content writer and avid traveller. Through my website, hafilatbalancecheck.ae, I provide clear, practical guides to help residents and visitors in Dubai manage their Hafilat cards efficiently. Whether you’re checking your balance, topping up your card, or exploring its features, my goal is to make navigating Dubai’s public transport system straightforward and stress-free.