Source: www.zawya.com
Dubai commuters can now enjoy the benefits and convenience of two cards in one with the development of a co-branded card scheme that will link Dubai Metro’s Nol card with Visa credit and debit cards. The announcement follows an exclusive partnership between Visa, one of the world’s leading electronic payments networks, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai and Emirates NBD. The combi-card, which is the first of its kind in the Middle East, will also give commuters the ability to top-up their Nol metro cards automatically by linking it to their Visa debit or credit cards.
The multi-purpose card will enable customers to use their Visa debit and Visa credit cards to pay for a range of public transport fares, including the metro, buses, water taxis and even parking fees. Through the combi-card, customers can now enjoy the benefits and convenience of two cards in one, utilizing both the payments functions of their debit/credit cards, as well as the Nol smart card which features innovative contactless payment technology.
The combi-card will essentially feature two applications in one card – one for the Visa debit or credit card payments, and one for the Nol card. It will also allow customers to automatically top up the Nol application directly from their payment cards.
The card will be available exclusively for Emirates NBD Visa credit and debit cardholders. Anyone who qualifies for a credit card can apply, regardless of whether or not they are an existing Emirates NBD customer. Supplementary cards will also be provided for extended family members, should they be required. The combi-card can be used to make purchases at all stores and online merchants that accept Visa cards.
Mohammed Al Mudharreb, Director of Unified Fare Payment Collection Department at RTAsaid: “RTA is reinventing the image of public transport in Dubai by the continual introduction of revolutionary innovative products. In its continual strive to improve the transit customer’s experience, RTA is thrilled about the partnership with ENBD and Visa to launch this unique offering. RTA believes the combi-card is the next step in providing transit travellers unmatched convenience and reduced waiting times by combining the unparalleled offering of the Nol card with an efficient card payment scheme.”
Commenting on the launch, Kamran Siddiqi, General Manager, Visa Middle East said: “Consumers today are constantly on-the-go and want access to fast and convenient payment solutions. We are delighted to partner with ENBD and RTA to support the development of the combi-card for the benefit of consumers in the UAE. Visa has deployed several such initiatives with banks and transit operators across the globe and we hope to use our experience to add value in the deployment of this product in the UAE.”
“The launch of the new combi-card is a significant milestone in contactless technology in the Middle East, and we are proud to be a part of this new initiative, which is testament to the UAE’s continued commitment towards innovation”, he added.
Commenting on the new initiative, R Sivaram, Senior Vice President and Head of Cards, Emirates NBD said: “Emirates NBD is delighted to be partnering with Visa and RTA. Our partnership leverages the combined strengths of the three organisations, bringing real value and convenience to our customers. Emirates NBD have a long association with technologies that enhance customers’ everyday experiences. The Emirates NBD – RTAVisa Combi-Card will be developed with this same focus to provide maximum convenience and time-saving features for today’s fast-paced lifestyles. We are excited about the launch of this pioneering concept, which is certain to become part of the fabric of life for commuters in the city.”
Visa has extensive experience in implementing similar transportation card programs globally in markets such as Singapore, Hong Kong and the UK.
The combi-card will be available through Emirates NBD in the coming months.
