Imagine stepping off the plane in Abu Dhabi, excited to explore the city, only to realize you don’t have a Hafilat card, the key to seamless travel on buses and public transport. Don’t worry, getting your hands on one is quick and easy when you know where to buy Hafilat card options across the city.
Whether you’re a resident, tourist, or daily commuter, this guide will walk you through:
- All official locations selling Hafilat cards
- Step-by-step purchase process at each outlet
- Pricing and card types available
- Alternative options if you can’t visit in person
By the end, you’ll know exactly where to buy Hafilat bus card and how to get started with Abu Dhabi’s smart transport system. Let’s dive in.
Where Can You Buy a Hafilat Card?
1. Official Hafilat Ticket Offices
The most reliable places to purchase your card are authorized Hafilat ticket offices, located at:
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station: This is one of the easiest ways to get your Hafilat card. As you have to visit bus stations frequently. Thus its easy for you to buy card during your tavel. Usually this counter is located at the entrance.
- Major Bus Terminals: You can buy the cards from major bus terminals as well, such as Al Wahda, Marina Mall, Mussafah, etc.
- Darb Customer Service Centers: Another way to buy the card is by using Darb Customer Care Centers (Government transport offices).
What You Need:
- Valid ID (Emirates ID for residents/passport for tourists)
- Cash or card payment (AED 10 for card + minimum top-up)
Process:
- Visit the counter and request a new Hafilat card
- Provide your ID for registration
- Pay the card fee (AED 10) and initial credit
- Receive your activated card instantly
2. Hafilat Vending Machines
Many bus stations and metro hubs have self-service machines where you can buy and recharge cards.
How It Works:
- Select “New Card” on the touchscreen
- Choose card type. Depending on your need, such as (Standard/Temporary)
- Insert cash/card payment
- Collect your card instantly. It is important to note that no ID is needed for temporary cards.
Tip: Machines are faster but may have limited stock during peak hours.
3. Authorized Retail Partners
Convenience stores across Abu Dhabi sell Hafilat cards, including Zoom stores, Emirates Post Offices, supermarkets, and department stores.
What to Expect:
- Slightly higher fee (AED 15-20 instead of AED 10)
- May not require ID for temporary cards
- Ideal for quick purchases in neighborhoods
Hafilat Card Types & Pricing (2025)
| Card Type | Price (AED) | Best For | ID Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Card | 10 | Residents (long-term use) | Yes (Emirates ID) |
| Temporary Card | 10 | Tourists (7-30 days validity) | No |
| Student Card | 5 | Registered students | Yes (School ID) |
| Senior Citizen Card | Free | UAE nationals aged 60+ | Yes (Emirates ID) |
Note: All cards require a minimum AED 5 initial top-up.
Alternative: Hafilat Digital Card
Can’t visit a physical location? Abu Dhabi now offers:
Digital Hafilat Card
- You can get your Hafilat digital card using the Darb official app.
- Virtual card works via smartphone NFC
Note: both digital and hard card has the same benefits and usage.
How to Get It:
- Download the Darb App from Play Store or you can directly download this app from our website as well.
- If you already have a Hafilat account, you can get your Hafilat card directly from your app by paying AED 10 for the card fee.
- If you don’t have an account, create one using ID and repeat the above process to get your card.
FAQs About Buying Hafilat Cards
1. Where to buy Hafilat card for tourists?
Tourists can purchase temporary cards at airports, bus stations, or vending machines without ID.
2. Can I buy Hafilat card online?
Yes, through the Darb app for digital cards only. Physical cards require in-person purchase.
3. What’s the cheapest place to buy Hafilat card?
Official ticket offices sell cards for AED 10, while retailers may charge up to AED 20.
4. Do all convenience stores sell Hafilat cards?
No, only those displaying the official Hafilat partnership sticker.
5. Can I get a refund for my Hafilat card?
Yes, at official centers by surrendering the card with original receipt.
Conclusion: Smart Travel Starts Here
Now you know exactly where to buy Hafilat bus card in Abu Dhabi:
- Official centers for cheapest options (AED 10)
- Vending machines for quick self-service
- Retail partners for neighborhood convenience
- Digital cards via Darb app for tech-savvy users
Pro Tip: If you’re a frequent traveler, consider the standard card for long-term savings. Tourists can opt for temporary or digital cards.
