How much does a Hafilat card cost?

The cost of a Hafilat card depends on the type. Generally, there is a small initial cost for the physical card itself (often around 10 to 40 AED depending on the card type and loaded pass), plus whatever balance or pass you choose to load onto it.

Can tourists buy a Hafilat card?

Yes, tourists can purchase a temporary or standard prepaid Hafilat card from ticket vending machines or authorized outlets using their passport as identification if needed.

How do I replace a lost Hafilat card?

To replace a lost Hafilat card, you must visit an ITC Customer Service Centre. Bring your valid Emirates ID or Passport. They can issue a replacement card for a small fee.

Can I transfer my balance to a new card?

If your previous card was registered, you can often transfer the remaining balance to your new replacement card at the ITC service centre.

How long does a Hafilat card last?

The physical Hafilat card is typically valid for 5 years from the date of issue. After that, it must be replaced to continue using the transport network.

Where to Buy a Hafilat Card in Abu Dhabi 2026

Getting Started with Hafilat

The Hafilat smart card is your essential companion for navigating the public bus network in Abu Dhabi. Whether you are a daily commuter, a student, a senior citizen, or a tourist, having a Hafilat card makes paying your bus fare seamless and entirely cashless. This guide will walk you through exactly where you can purchase a new card, the different types available, and the required documentation.

Where to Buy Your Hafilat Card

ITC Customer Service Centres

The primary choice for obtaining new cards, handling replacements, and applying for special concession cards. Ensure you bring a valid ID.

Station Ticket Machines

Self-service kiosks located at major bus stations and terminals across the emirate. Ideal for quick, self-service purchasing of standard new cards.

Authorised Retail Partners

Available at select convenience stores, supermarkets, and transport hubs. Perfect for grabbing a card on the go.

Where to buy Hafilat card locations in Abu Dhabi

What You Need for a New Card

Valid Emirates ID (for UAE residents) or Passport with valid visa (for tourists and visitors).
Initial Deposit: A small fee is required to purchase the physical card itself. Be sure to check the official Darb app or portal (hafilat.darb.ae) for the most up-to-date pricing.
Your Choice of Fare Structure: Decide if you prefer a pay-as-you-go balance or if an unlimited travel pass is better for your usage.

Hafilat Card Types

Abu Dhabi's transport system offers a variety of cards to suit different travel needs:

Prepaid Silver: The standard, anonymous pay-as-you-go card. Ideal for casual travellers.
Travel Passes: Load daily, weekly, or monthly unlimited travel passes to save money on frequent journeys.
Concession Cards: Special personalized cards for students, seniors, and People of Determination, offering discounted or free travel.

Applying for a Concession Card

Concession cards provide significant travel benefits for eligible groups, including reduced fares or entirely free travel.

Eligible Groups: Enrolled Students, Senior Citizens (aged 60 and above), and People of Determination.
Required Documents: A valid Emirates ID is mandatory. Students require an official university or school enrollment letter. People of Determination must provide a card issued by the Zayed Higher Organization.
Process: Concession applications must be done in person at an ITC Customer Service Centre. They cannot be processed via self-service machines.

Card Replacement Process

If your registered Hafilat card is lost, stolen, or physically damaged, you can easily get a replacement without losing your balance.

Note on Anonymous Cards: If you lose an unregistered (anonymous) Silver card, the balance cannot be recovered. Always register your card in the Darb app!

Visit the nearest ITC Customer Service Centre.
Present your valid Emirates ID.
Pay the nominal replacement fee.
The agent will block your old card and transfer any remaining balance to your new replacement card.

ITC Service Centre Locations

Location Name	Region	Standard Operating Hours
Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal	Abu Dhabi City	8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Weekdays)
Zayed City Bus Station	Abu Dhabi Suburbs	8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Weekdays)
Al Ain Central Bus Station	Al Ain	8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Weekdays)
Al Ruwais Bus Station	Al Dhafra	8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Weekdays)

*Operating hours may vary during public holidays and Ramadan. We advise verifying with the official ITC contact centre before visiting.

After Getting Your Card

Register Your Card

Download the official Darb app and create an account. Add your card serial number under the "My Cards" section.

Set Alerts

Enable low-balance notifications in the app so you never get caught without enough fare.

Recharge Anywhere

With your card registered, you can top up your balance securely right from your phone.

Need help with the app? Check out our complete Darb App Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

The initial cost for a standard blank card is typically around 10 AED. After purchasing the physical card, you must load it with a balance or a travel pass to pay for fares. Total initial cost depends on how much balance you wish to add.

Yes, tourists are welcome to purchase temporary passes or standard prepaid cards from vending machines or ticket counters. A passport is usually required for identification at service counters.

To replace a personalized or registered card, visit an ITC Customer Service Centre with your Emirates ID. They will issue a replacement for a small processing fee.

Yes, if your lost or damaged card was registered in your name, the ITC staff can transfer any remaining balance to your newly issued card.

The physical smart card has an expiry date, generally 5 years from the date of issue. Once it expires, you will need to purchase a new card.

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