The Hafilat Card Guide: Balance Check, Recharge & Prices

The Hafilat Card is your passport to hassle-free travel across Abu Dhabi's extensive public bus network. Introduced by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), this NFC-enabled smart card eliminates the need for cash, offering a seamless "tap-and-go" experience for city, regional, and intercity trips. Whether you are a daily commuter looking for an abu dhabi bus monthly pass or a visitor needing a quick ride, understanding how to manage your Hafilat balance is essential.

This guide covers everything from checking your balance online to finding the nearest recharge point.

![The Hafilat Card Guide: Balance Check, Recharge & Prices](/images/abu-dhabi/guides/hafilat abu dhabi bus card recharge.webp)

What is the Hafilat Card?

The Hafilat (meaning "Bus" in Arabic) card is a prepaid smart card used for all public buses in Abu Dhabi.

Technology: Contactless NFC.
Coverage: City, Regional, and Intercity buses (including some Dubai routes).
Validity: 5 years (Anonymous) to 16 years (Personalized).
Minimum Balance: AED 10 required to board.

Types of Hafilat Cards

Choosing the right card depends on your residency status and travel frequency.

1. Anonymous Hafilat Card (Green)

Best For: Tourists and visitors.
Cost: AED 10.
Validity: 5 Years.
Requirements: None (No ID needed).
Pros: Instant purchase, no registration required.
Cons: Balance cannot be recovered if lost.

2. Personalized Hafilat Card

Best For: Residents and daily commuters.
Cost: Free (No card fee).
Validity: 16 Years.
Requirements: Valid Emirates ID.
Pros: Balance protection (recoverable if lost), eligible for student/senior discounts.
How to Get: Apply online at hafilat.darb.ae or visit a bus station.

Hafilat Card Prices and Passes

Using a Hafilat card is significantly cheaper than paying single fares repeatedly.

Standard Fares

City Trips: ~AED 2 to AED 4 depending on distance.
Regional/Express: Starts at AED 2 + 5 fils per km (Capped at AED 5).

Weekly & Monthly Passes

For regular travelers, passes offer incredible value.

Weekly Pass: AED 35 for 7 days of unlimited city travel.
Monthly Pass: AED 95 for 30 days of unlimited city travel.
- Why Buy? If you take more than one bus a day, this pass pays for itself in just two weeks.

Discounts: Seniors (60+) and People of Determination pay only AED 50 for a monthly pass (47% off).

How to Check Hafilat Card Balance

Knowing your balance prevents embarrassing "insufficient funds" alerts when boarding.

Method 1: Online (Easiest)

Visit the official Hafilat website.
Click "Recharge Card" or "Card Services".
Enter the Serial Number found on the back of your card.
Your current balance will be displayed instantly.

Method 2: Vending Machines

Insert your card into any Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) at bus stops or malls.
The screen will display your balance immediately.

Method 3: Mobile App

Download the Darbi or Hafilat app.
Register your card to view real-time balance and transaction history.

How to Recharge Your Card

You can top up your card 24/7 using multiple channels.

Online: via hafilat.darb.ae (Credit/Debit card).
Mobile App: Use the Darbi app for quick top-ups.
Vending Machines: Located at bus stations and major stops (accepts Cash/Card).
Retail Stores: Lulu Hypermarkets and authorized grocery stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a Hafilat card?

You can buy an Anonymous card at Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) found at bus stations, major bus stops, and Lulu Hypermarkets.

Can I use my Hafilat card in Dubai?

You can use it for Intercity buses going to Dubai (like E100/E101). However, once you are in Dubai, you will need a Nol Card for local Metro and bus travel.

What is the minimum balance to travel?

You must have at least AED 10 on your card to board a bus.

Can I refund my balance?

No, Hafilat card balances are non-refundable. We recommend topping up only what you plan to use.

Your Next Commute Step

If you commute daily, switch to the Monthly Pass for AED 95. It’s the most economical way to travel, saving you over AED 100 annually compared to paying per trip. Visit hafilat.darb.ae now to register your card and secure your balance!