Dubai Launches Student Card With Transport Benefits
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the New Dubai Student Card, combining student identification, public transport access and international discounts in one solution.
Announced on 11 November 2026, the initiative aims to simplify student mobility and improve access to educational institutions across the emirate. Moreover, it gives students access to discounts on public transport and benefits across the UAE and overseas.
The RTA developed the card in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), TECOM Group’s Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, and the International Student Identity Card Association (ISIC).
Through this partnership, students can use one card for campus identification, nol transport services and internationally recognised student status. Consequently, the initiative connects everyday commuting with wider educational and lifestyle benefits.
Up to 50% Discounts on Dubai Public Transport
The New Dubai Student Card integrates three core functions. First, it provides student identification at participating educational institutions. Second, it incorporates Nol functionality for accessing RTA public transport services.
Most importantly, eligible students can receive fare discounts of up to 50% on public transport journeys across Dubai. This could help students manage their daily commuting expenses while travelling between campuses and other destinations.
Additionally, the card provides access to student discounts and promotional offers across the UAE. These benefits extend beyond transport to everyday shopping, dining and entertainment.
The initiative also aims to encourage students to use public transport more frequently. Therefore, the RTA sees the card as part of its wider efforts to improve accessibility and support sustainable urban mobility.
Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Corporate Technology Services Sector, said the card brings together identification, mobility and international student benefits. He also highlighted its role in making daily journeys and campus access more convenient.
ISIC Partnership Unlocks 150,000 International Benefits
A major feature of the new card is its integration with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) programme.
Through this partnership, students gain internationally recognised proof of their student status. Cardholders can also access more than 150,000 benefits across over 130 countries.
These international offers cover several categories:
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Travel and accommodation
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Dining and restaurants
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Shopping and retail
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Entertainment and leisure
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Education and student services
As a result, the card extends its value beyond Dubai’s campuses. Students travelling abroad can also use their recognised student status to access participating discounts and offers.
Matthew East, CEO of GTS ALIVE Group, which represents the ISIC Association, highlighted the importance of connecting students with international opportunities. Meanwhile, the partnership supports access to experiences both within the UAE and overseas.
Phased Rollout and Institutional Participation
The RTA will introduce the New Dubai Student Card in phases. Educational institutions across Dubai can apply to participate through the official registration platform.
The project also supports Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy, which seeks to develop a future-ready education ecosystem. Dr Saeed Mubarak Kharbash, CEO of Policies, Research and Programmes at KHDA, said the initiative connects education, mobility and opportunities within one service.
Similarly, Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, highlighted its role in strengthening Dubai’s higher education environment.
The initiative reflects Dubai’s wider efforts to attract international students and develop its education sector. Furthermore, integrating transport services with student identification and global benefits could make everyday campus life more convenient.
As the phased rollout progresses, the participating institutions will play an important role in extending the card’s reach across Dubai’s education community.
