7 Essential UAE Cards and Passes to Store in Your Phone Wallet

Maryam Pervez -

As technology advances, physical wallets may soon become obsolete, especially in the UAE, where almost everything is accessible via smartphones. Why carry a collection of plastic cards when you can store all your essential IDs and passes digitally? Here’s how you can save seven key items in your phone wallet and go about your day seamlessly.

1. Emirates ID

Your Emirates ID is crucial for many activities, from sending money home to hospital visits and government transactions. To have it handy on your iPhone:

  • Download the UAE ICP app.
  • Log in with your UAE Pass.
  • Find "Emirates ID" under the Favourites or "Cards" section.
  • View the digital version of your ID and tap "Add to Apple Wallet".

Currently, this feature is only available for iPhone users. Android users can view the QR code but cannot add the ID to their phone wallet yet.

2. Driver’s Licence

Driving in Dubai requires having your licence at all times. You can save a digital version on both iPhone and Samsung phones:

  • Download the RTA app.
  • Tap 'My Docs' and select 'Licence'.
  • Tap "Add to Wallet" under your driver's licence.

This feature is currently limited to licences issued in Dubai.

3. Vehicle Licence

Car owners in Dubai can also digitize their vehicle licences:

  • Open the RTA app.
  • Select 'Vehicles' and choose 'Licence'.
  • Tap "Add to Wallet".

The digital licence displays details such as the expiry date, traffic file number, chassis number, and car model.

4. Nol Card

Commuters using Dubai’s Metro and buses can digitize their Nol card, although it's currently limited to specific phones:

  • Huawei users: Ensure your phone meets the conditions listed on the official website, then:
    • Open the Wallet app and tap the 'plus' button.
    • Choose 'Transportation card' and follow the instructions.
  • Samsung users: Download the Nol Pay app and follow the guide to digitize your card.

5. Movie Tickets

Booking movie tickets online has become the norm, and you can save your e-tickets directly in your phone wallet:

  • Vox Cinemas: After booking online, you can save the ticket to your phone wallet, making it easy to access and store all your movie passes in one place.

6. Boarding Passes

Avoid airport queues by saving your digital boarding pass:

  • Emirates and Etihad: Both airlines allow passengers to add boarding passes to their phone wallets if their devices support it.
    • Etihad: Compatible with Apple and Google wallets.
    • Emirates: Available for iPhones on iOS6 or later. Use the mobile app to check in and select 'Save to device'.

7. Credit and Debit Cards

The primary purpose of digital wallets is to store bank cards. You can easily save your debit or credit cards:

  • Open your digital wallet app (Apple, Samsung, or Google).
  • Tap the 'plus' or 'add' button and input your card details.

Going Wallet-Free in the UAE

With these digital solutions, you can simplify your daily life in the UAE by carrying essential cards and passes in your phone. Stay updated with the latest features and make the most of your smartphone’s capabilities for a hassle-free experience.

News Source: Khaleej Times