Dubai: Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai, in partnership with GTS Alive Middle East - the representative of the International Student Identity Card Association in the Middle East - as well as with Parkin PJSC and PayPal on the sidelines of its participation in GITEX Global (13-17 October 2025).
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoUs were signed on behalf of RTA by Mohammed Al Mudharreb, CEO of Corporate Technology Support Services Sector. Signing on behalf of KHDA and the International Student Identity Card Association were Dr. Saeed Mubarak Kharbash, CEO of Policies, Research and Programmes Sector at KHDA, and Michal Lezo, Managing Director of GTS Alive Middle East. The MoU with Parkin was signed by Mohamed Abdulla Al Ali, CEO of Parkin, while the MoU with PayPal was signed by Otto Williams, Senior Vice President, Regional Head, and General Manager at PayPal Middle East and Africa.
The signing of these MoUs aims to expand and enhance the use of nol card by achieving several strategic objectives. These include strengthening service integration to enable companies and institutions to link their services with the nol ecosystem, thereby allowing users to benefit from the card across multiple fields beyond public transport; expanding usage by increasing the number of entities accepting nol as a means of payment, including retail outlets, restaurants, car parks, events, and entertainment facilities; and promoting digital transformation by reducing reliance on cash and supporting smart payment solutions in line with smart city directions.
The objectives also cover building strategic partnerships with the private sector to open new avenues of innovative collaboration for the development of nol-linked products and services; raising customer satisfaction by delivering a seamless and integrated experience through a single card that facilitates daily transactions with ease and flexibility; diversifying revenue sources through partnership fees, value-added services, and innovations linked to the card; and supporting environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on paper tickets and cash payments, thereby reinforcing eco-friendly practices.
Mohammed Al Mudharreb expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, stating that RTA is keen to work with the business community, particularly the private sector, at various levels to exchange knowledge and expertise. This collaboration aims to improve and advance services offered to RTA's customers, including residents, visitors, and tourists.
Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash highlighted that Dubai's education strategy focuses on meeting the needs of students by adopting innovative and safe solutions. The 'Study in Dubai - nol ISIC' card for students, launched in collaboration with RTA and GTS Alive Middle East, is expected to enhance the student experience in Dubai by offering lifestyle benefits and discounts.
Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali of Parkin noted that the partnership with RTA aims to strengthen strategic collaboration and develop smart, comprehensive, and sustainable services. This collaboration is expected to enhance interoperability between the digital payment systems of nol and Parkin, providing new payment options for customers.
Otto Williams of PayPal emphasized that the partnership with RTA reflects a shared vision for seamless, digital-first mobility. This collaboration aims to transform payments into the backbone of urban innovation, helping Dubai lead as a global hub for smart, connected cities.