Hafilat Card For People of Determination to Free Travel in Abu Dhabi

The Hafilat Smart Card is a personalized, government-issued transport card designed specifically for People of Determination (PoD) in Abu Dhabi. Issued by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), this card provides eligible individuals with a free annual travel pass valid on all public buses across the emirate.

The card is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader commitment to building an accessible, inclusive city where every resident, regardless of physical ability, can move freely and independently. It goes beyond a simple discount card; it is a comprehensive mobility solution that addresses the real daily travel challenges faced by people with determination.

In 2026, the program continues to be one of the most generous public transit benefits available in the UAE, making it essential for eligible individuals to take full advantage of it.

To qualify for the Hafilat Card under the People of Determination category, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Both permanent and temporary cases are considered, making the program accessible to a wide range of individuals with varying needs.

Transportation plays a major role in improving independence and quality of life. Affordable and accessible mobility helps People of Determination participate more actively in society.

The Hafilat POD card supports:

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision for building an inclusive society where everyone can contribute equally.

The following documents are required when applying for the People of Determination Hafilat Card and annual permit:

For the companion’s free permit, the companion must:

Applying for the Hafilat Card for People of Determination is straightforward. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Fill out the pre-registration form at Hafilat Drab

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Collect your Emirates ID, official PoD card (or government medical report), personal photo, and pre-registration form. If your condition is temporary, ensure you have a current medical report ready.

Step 3: Visit a Customer Happiness Center

Head to one of the Customer Happiness Centers located at major bus stations or airports across Abu Dhabi. Staff at these centers are trained to assist people of determination and will guide you through the process.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Present your documents to the counter staff. A personal photo can be taken on-site if you don’t have one ready.

Step 5: Receive Your Hafilat PoD Card

Once your application is processed and verified, your personalized Hafilat Smart Card will be issued. The card is valid for one full year from the date of issuance.

People of Determination, after receiving the Hafilat card recharge it before using the bus.

note

POD cardholders can check their Hafilat balance and pass validity through the following methods:

Card Type	Card Price	Travel Charges	monthly pass
People of Determination	AED 5	Free	AED 80
POD Companion	AED 5–10	Free	AED 80

The free annual permit for People of Determination is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

For permanent POD cardholders:

• Visit the nearest Customer Happiness Office at any bus station or the airport
• Bring your Emirates ID card
• The permit will be renewed free of charge

For temporary cases (medical report-based eligibility):

• You must provide an updated medical report at the time of renewal
• Bring your Emirates ID and the new medical report to the Customer Happiness Office

It is recommended to renew at least a few days before the permit expires to avoid any gap in service.

note

The benefits offered through the Hafilat system for People of Determination are exceptional and among the most generous in the region.

1. Free Annual Permit (Unlimited Travel)

The most significant benefit is the free annual permit, a pass that provides unlimited free bus trips throughout Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra for an entire year. This permit is completely free of charge for eligible POD cardholders and replaces the need to purchase any additional passes or top up a T-Purse balance for city travel.

Standard annual passes cost AED 500 for regular users. For People of Determination, this cost is fully subsidized to zero.

2. Free Companion Travel

One of the most unique and thoughtful features of this program is that one companion also receives free unlimited travel under the same annual permit. The companion must be a holder of their own personalized Hafilat card.

This means that a caregiver, family member, or support person accompanying a person of determination can travel completely free alongside them for the entire year covering all city and suburban bus routes in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.

3. POD Discounted Intercity Bus Travel

While the free annual permit covers city and suburban routes, People of Determination also receive a 50% discount on intercity bus services, for example, on routes traveling between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain or Al Dhafra. This discount applies to taxi fares as well, making the overall transport cost significantly reduced for POD holders.

4. Accessible Buses

All public buses in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain are equipped to be accessible for people of determination, including features for wheelchair users. Priority boarding assistance and dedicated seating are available across the network.

5. Card Validity: 16 Years

The Hafilat personalized card for People of Determination has a validity of 16 years from the date of issue, far longer than many other smart card systems, meaning you won’t need to replace the card frequently.

Source

Hafilat http://hafilat.darb.ae/
Customer Happiness Center