Card recharge — UAE quick guide

How to top up your hafilat / bus card across UAE: machines, kiosks, retail partners and mobile options with fail-safe tips.

  • Avg top-up time: 30–90 seconds
  • Accepted: cash, cards, mobile pay (varies by kiosk)
  • Tip: keep card flat on reader and wait for confirmation beep
Top-up kiosk closeup

How card recharge works

1. Choose a method

Select kiosk, online, app or retail partner.

2. Present your card

Place card on the reader area, keep still until confirmation.

3. Confirm & collect receipt

Wait for confirmation beep or screen message; keep receipt if needed.

Top-up methods

Most reliable for immediate loads. Accepts cash and cards depending on station. Keep card centered on reader pad until the green tick appears.

Top-up remotely and sync at the next tap (some systems require tapping card at reader to apply pending top-up). Use official apps for secure transactions.

Convenience stores and mall kiosks offer top-up services with staff assistance. Good when you need help or face machine issues.

FAQ — common issues

Why didn't my top-up apply?

If you used online top-up, some systems need you to tap the card at a reader to sync the balance. Check transaction history in the app.

Machine shows error

Try again at another reader or contact support. Avoid multiple repeated attempts that may lock a session.

Pro tips for smooth recharge

  • Keep small bills ready for cash kiosks.
  • Use card-friendly machines to avoid coin jams.
  • Take a photo of receipt for disputes.
  • If topping up online, note the transaction ID.
Using kiosk
Mobile top-up app

Where to top up — map & quick links

Check station kiosks, mall service desks and supermarket counters. For mobile options visit the official transport app pages.

Top-up DXB locations

Support & contact

Support face

Customer support

Available for guidance on reload options and troubleshooting across the UAE.