Students in Dubai are about to get a very handy card. On Wednesday, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the New Dubai Student Card. It brings student identification, nol public transport, and worldwide discounts together in one place. With it, students can get up to 50 percent off public transport fares and use more than 150,000 benefits across over 130 countries.
One Card, Three Jobs
Until now, a student might carry a campus ID, a Nol card, and maybe an international student card too. The new card puts all of this together.
Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of the RTA’s Corporate Technology Services Sector, explained that the card joins three main functions. It works as a student ID for educational institutions, as a nol card for public transport, and as internationally recognized proof of student status through ISIC, the International Student Identity Card Association.
The card was developed with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Knowledge Park, and ISIC.
What Students Can Use It For
The RTA says the card supports students in four areas.
| Where | What students get |
|---|---|
| On campus | Student identification through their educational institution |
| Around Dubai | Public transport with student fare discounts of up to 50 percent |
| Every day | Student benefits, discounts, and offers across the UAE |
| While travelling | More than 150,000 ISIC benefits in over 130 countries |
The discounts cover shopping, dining, entertainment, travel, and accommodation, both in the UAE and abroad. For a student on a tight budget, small savings on daily rides and meals can add up fast over a semester.
Why the ISIC Link Matters
ISIC is a globally known student identity. Through this partnership, the Dubai card gives students proof of student status that is accepted outside the UAE. That means the card is useful on a holiday or an exchange trip, and not only in Dubai.
Matthew East, CEO of GTS ALIVE Group, ISIC Association, said students today are connected to a world far beyond their campus, so their student identity should reflect that. He added that the card links them with benefits and experiences in Dubai and around the world.
What Officials Said
Dr. Saeed Mubarak Kharbash, CEO of Policies, Research, and Programmes at KHDA, said the card puts the learner at the heart of the student experience. He linked it to the Education 33 Strategy, which aims to build a future-ready education system where students can learn, explore, and grow in Dubai and beyond.
Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, part of TECOM Group, said the initiative supports Dubai’s place as a global centre for higher education. He said it gives students one solution for ID, travel, and exclusive benefits.
The wider goal is clear. Dubai wants to be a top destination for education and talent, and easier daily life for students helps that plan.
How and When Will It Roll Out?
The card will be introduced in phases, so it will not reach every student on the same day. Educational institutions that want to take part can apply through the website www.dubaistudentcard.ae.
The RTA has not shared a full timeline or card price yet. So students should wait for their own school or university to confirm if and when it will join. Checking with the student services office is a smart first step.
Why This Is Good News
Transport is one of the biggest regular costs for students who do not own a car. Half-price fares on the metro, tram, bus, and other services can make a real difference to a monthly budget. Add the daily discounts and the global ISIC offers, and the card could easily pay for itself.
It also saves effort. One card is easier to carry, easier to remember, and easier to use than three separate ones.
Keep Reading
Many young people in Dubai are thinking about careers while they study, and the city is working hard to create jobs in new fields. If that sounds like you, read about why Dubai’s AI Campus is growing fast and why its AI economy is worth your attention.
Students who drive or ride with friends may also like this road safety news. Dubai Police is giving away free Esaad cards, and you can enter through a road safety quiz.
The New Dubai Student Card is still at an early stage, but it already looks like a smart and useful move. If your school or university joins the programme, it could make everyday student life in Dubai easier and a lot cheaper.