• Visit the Darbi Hafilat recharge page and choose Recharge Card.
• Enter your card’s serial number (printed on the back).
• Select the amount to top up.
• Complete payment via credit/debit card or e-wallet.
• Wait up to 2 hours for the balance to appear on your card.

Other ways to recharge hafilar card

1. Ticket Office Machines (TOMs)

Best for: Fast, in‑station recharges with cash and coins
Locations: Inside all Abu Dhabi bus stations, major shopping malls, the airport.

Steps:

1. Find a TOM (look for “Hafilat Recharge” signage).
2. Tap your card on the reader.
3. Choose Recharge Card → Add Balance.
4. Insert notes and/or coins (change dispensed if available).
5. Confirm the amount; wait for on‑screen balance update.

2. Swift Recharge Machines (SRMs)

Best for: Quick top‑ups at bus stops and malls
Locations: Air‑conditioned bus shelters, select shopping centres.

Steps:

1. Tap your Hafilat card on the SRM reader.
2. Select Recharge on the touchscreen.
3. Insert UAE banknotes (no change given).
4. Approve the transaction and remove your card when prompted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long before an online recharge appears?
A: Website recharges take up to 2 hours; mobile‑wallet top‑ups usually appear instantly.

Q: Can I refund an unused balance?
A: No Hafilat card balances and passes are non‑refundable. Plan your top‑ups to match your travel needs.

Q: What if my card is damaged or lost?
A: For Anonymous cards, lost balances cannot be recovered. Personalized cards allow balance transfer—visit a Customer Happiness Office for assistance.

5. Authorized Retailers & Customer Centres

Best for: In‑person assistance or bulk top‑ups
Locations include:

• Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society (SPAR)
• Lulu Hypermarkets & Exchanges
• ITC Customer Happiness Offices at bus stations

What to bring:

• Your Hafilat card
• Cash or card payment

Tips & Tricks

• Auto‑Top‑Up: Link your card to Payit for automatic recharges when balance falls below AED 10.
• Check Balance: Use any TOM/SRM or the Darbi site to view your current balance.
• Maximum Balance: AED 150; unused balance expires after 3 months if not used.
• Passes: Add 7‑day, 30‑day or annual passes at TOMs if you travel frequently.

The post How to Recharge Your Hafilat Card (Abu Dhabi Card Recharge) appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

NOL Card 2 Zone Monthly Pass Prices: Silver, Gold & Concession Rates

A 30 day NOL Card monthly pass for two zones costs AED 230 on a Silver Card and AED 460 on a Gold Card. Concession passes (students, senior citizens, people of determination) are AED 115 for two zones.

 

Did you refer ? Contact Us

 

 

What Is a NOL Card Monthly Pass?

The NOL Card is Dubai’s unified travel card for Metro, bus and tram. A 30‑day pass lets you ride unlimited trips within your chosen zones perfect for daily commuters and visitors alike.

 

Understanding Dubai’s Metro Zones

Dubai’s public transport network is divided into five fare zones.

• Zone 1 covers Downtown, Bur Dubai and Deira.
• Zone 2 covers areas like Al Nahda, Karama and Business Bay.

For full zone boundaries, see the official RTA Nol Card fare map.

 

2‑Zone Monthly Pass Pricing

Card Type	30‑Day Pass Price (2 Zones)
Silver Card	AED 230
Gold Card	AED 460
Concession	AED 115

Concession passes are available to UAE students, Emirati senior citizens and people of determination.

 

Monthly vs. Daily Cost Comparison

Using a monthly pass often saves you money vs. daily tickets:

Travel Pattern	Daily Ticket Cost	Monthly Pass Cost	Monthly Savings*
2 trips/day × 22 work days	AED 176 (22×8)	AED 230	AED ( –
4 trips/day × 22 work days	AED 352 (22×16)	AED 230	AED 122

*Assumes Zone 1–2 daily fare of AED 8 per trip.

 

Why Choose a Monthly Pass?

• Predictable Budget: One fee covers all rides for 30 days.
• Convenience: No need to top up or queue for tickets daily.
• Flexibility: Travel anytime early morning to late night.
• Cost Savings: Ideal when making more than 30 short trips per month.

 

How to Purchase Your 2‑Zone Monthly Pass

1. Top up your NOL Card with at least the pass amount.
2. Visit any Metro ticket vending machine or authorised sales point.
3. Select “Travel Pass” → “2‑Zone, 30‑Day Pass” on the touchscreen.
4. Tap your NOL Card on the reader to load the pass.
5. Start riding immediately your pass is valid for 30 consecutive days.

For digital top‑ups and auto‑recharge, download the RTA Dubai app.

The post NOL Card 2 Zone Monthly Pass Prices: Silver, Gold & Concession Rates appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

If you hold a valid driving licence from any GCC member or one of 44 other approved countries, you can exchange it directly in the UAE no further tests needed.

GCC Countries

Country
Saudi Arabia
Oman
Qatar
Kuwait
Bahrain

Other Approved Countries

Country
Albania
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Canada
China
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Montenegro
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Serbia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Turkey
United Kingdom
United States
Ukraine

Step‑by‑Step Exchange Process

1. Confirm your eligibility
   • Hold a valid licence from an approved country above
   • Possess a current UAE residency visa
2. Prepare your documents
   • Original foreign driving licence
   • Certified Arabic translation (if licence not in English/Arabic)
   • Emirates ID copy
   • Passport and visa page copy
   • Eye‑test certificate from an RTA‑approved centre
   • Two passport‑size photographs
   • No‑objection letter (if required by your sponsor)
3. Complete an eye test
   • Go to any RTA‑approved optical clinic (Al Jaber, Yateem, Grand Optics)
   • Fee: AED 100–150
   • Results are electronically sent to the RTA
4. Submit your application
   • Dubai: RTA customer happiness centres or online via RTA smart app
   • Abu Dhabi: TAMM portal or Police Drivers Licensing Dept
   • Other emirates: MOI UAE app or local traffic licensing centre
   • Pay the conversion fee (AED 400–900, varies by emirate)
5. Receive your UAE licence
   • Issued same day in most cases
   • Valid for 5 years (residents) or 10 years (citizens)
   • Keep original licence until process completes

Emirate‑Specific Notes

• Dubai: Online booking speeds up processing expect licence on the spot
• Abu Dhabi: Fee typically AED 600–800, book via TAMM for guaranteed same‑day issue
• Sharjah: Translation attestation stricter use Ministry of Justice–approved translators
• Northern Emirates: Processed by MOI; timeline can extend 1–2 days

Cost & Timeline Breakdown

• Translation & legalisation: AED 100–300 (per page)
• Eye test: AED 100–150
• Application & issuance: AED 400–900
• Total first‑day investment: AED 600–1,350 depending on emirate and translation needs
• Processing time: 1–2 hours in Dubai/Abu Dhabi, up to 2 days elsewhere

Insider Tips & Pitfalls

• Redirect old vehicle licences: If you’ve held multiple licences, bring all records to avoid delays
• Off‑peak appointments: Book slots early morning or late afternoon to beat queues
• Certified translators only: Using non‑approved translators can lead to outright rejections
• Golden Chance Programme: One‑time test waiver for non‑approved‑country licence holders ask your RTA centre

FAQs

Q: Do I ever need to take a driving test?
A: Only if your licence is from a non‑approved country. Then you must pass the theory and road tests.

Q: What if my licence isn’t in English or Arabic?
A: You need an official translation stamped by the UAE Ministry of Justice.

Q: Can I apply before my residency visa issues?
A: No. Your visa must be fully stamped in your passport before conversion.

Q: How long does the converted licence last?
A: Five years for expatriate residents, ten years for UAE citizens.

The post Which Countries Driving License Can Be Exchanged in UAE appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

• 100% foreign ownership and full repatriation of capital and profits
• Zero personal and corporate tax for 40 years, renewable thereafter
• World‑class green infrastructure, including smart grids and solar‑powered systems

Key Benefits for Your Business in Masdar City FZ

1. Sustainability‑Driven Brand
   Locating in Masdar City associates your company with global environmentall standards ideal for clients and investors seeking responsible partners.
2. Advanced Facilities
   From LEED‑certified office towers to dedicated research labs, the zone provides plug‑and‑play workspaces tailored for high‑tech operations.
3. Strategic Abu Dhabi Location
   Just 17 km from Abu Dhabi International Airport and adjacent to Khalifa Port, you gain seamless air and sea logistics.
4. Access to Innovation Networks
   Join accelerators, university partnerships and government innovation programmes designed to spark collaboration and funding.

Who Should Choose Masdar City Free Zone?

• Clean‑tech Startups seeking R&D grants and pilot‑testing facilities
• Renewable Energy Firms aiming to scale solar or wind projects in the Middle East
• Tech Developers focused on smart‑city solutions, IoT or AI applications
• Consultancies and Service Providers supporting green infrastructure projects

Step‑by‑Step Company Formation Process in Masdar City Freezone

Open Bank Account & Visa Processing
Apply for corporate and shareholder visas. Masdar City Free Zone includes fast‑track visa services typically completed within 7–10 days.

• Select Your License Type
• Consultancy/Professional Licence for advisory services
• Industrial Licence for manufacturing or assembly within the zone
• R&D Licence for research‑focused entities

Reserve Your Company Name
Propose three unique names, respecting the zone’s naming guidelines (no religious, political or offensive terms).

Submit Application & Documents
Provide:

• Passport copies of shareholders and directors
• No‑objection certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of address

Sign Lease & Pay Fees
Choose from:

• Flexi‑desk packages (virtual office)
• Dedicated office units with full amenities
  Fees start from AED 13,000/year for a flexi‑desk.

Obtain Initial Approval
Within 3–5 business days your trade licence will be issued, provided all paperwork is in order.

Open Bank Account & Visa Processing

• Apply for corporate and shareholder visas. Masdar City Free Zone includes fast‑track visa servicestypically completed within 7–10 days.

Masdar Freezone Busienss Setup Cost Breakdown

(Not actual cost)

Masdar City Free Zone Location

Masdar City Free Zone sits just outside Abu Dhabi city proper, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Key location facts:

• Proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport: ~ 17 km (10 mi) north via E10/Zayed Bin Sultan Street
• Distance from Abu Dhabi downtown: ~ 25 km (15 mi) northwest of the Corniche
• Adjacent to Khalifa Port: ~ 2 km (1.2 mi) west—ideal for import/export logistics
• Road links: Direct access from Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street (E10) and the upcoming Al Falah Road extension
• Public transport: Planned Abu Dhabi Metro link; existing bus routes from central Abu Dhabi terminals

These make Masdar City Free Zone highly accessible by air, sea and road—perfect for both local operations

Why Work with CIG?

Navigating application requirements, lease agreements and visa quotas can be time‑consuming. A specialist partner will:

• Advise on the optimal licence type for your activity mix
• Coordinate with Masdar City authorities to expedite approvals
• Manage bank‑account setup, PRO services and ongoing compliance

This lets you focus on product development and client acquisition, not paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I change my business activity later?
Yes. You can apply to add or amend activities through a quick amendment process, usually within 1–2 days.

Q: Are there any hidden fees?
All costs are disclosed upfront. No administration or renewal surprises they’re built into your annual invoice.

Q: How many visas can I sponsor?
Visas depend on your office size. A dedicated 100 m² unit can sponsor up to 10 visas; flexi‑desk packages typically allow one visa with add‑ons available.

Ready to Launch in Masdar City Free Zone?

Masdar City Free Zone offers a unique blend of sustainability, innovation and commercial opportunity. If you’re targeting the future of green technology, this is where your business belongs.

Next step: Contact CIG we’ll handle your licence application, office lease and visa formalities so you can start operations in as little as 7 business days.

Email: dm@cigbusinesssetup.ae
Call: +971 52 120 7238

The post Masdar City Free Zone: Your Gateway to a Sustainable Business Hub appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

Upcoming Public Holidays 2025

• Oct 15 (Prophet’s Birthday): 1 Public, 1 Private
• Nov 30 (Commemoration Day): 1 Public, 1 Private
• Dec 2–Dec 3 (UAE National Day): 2 Public, 2 Private

Holidays Are Passed

• Jan 1 (New Year’s Day): 1 Public, 1 Private
• Mar 14 (Isra and Mi’raj): 1 Public, 1 Private
• Mar 30–Apr 2 (Eid Al‑Fitr): 4 Public, 3 Private
• Jun 16–Jun 19 (Eid Al‑Adha): 4 Public, 3 Private
• Jul 7 (Hijri New Year): 2 Public, 1 Private

This calendar lists every UAE public and private sector holiday in 2025, organized by month. You can quickly see each holiday’s date, name and the number of days off granted to government and private company employees. Use it to plan vacations, schedule business activities or simply stay informed about official observances throughout the year.

Full Holiday Calender UAE

The post 2025 UAE Public Private Holidays | Public Holidays 2025 UAE Calendar appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

Daily updates

Today in Abu Dhabi, gold is trading at AED 404.50 per gram for 24K, AED 374.50 per gram for 22K and AED 306.40 per gram for 18K. These rates reflect a slight dip from yesterday’s levels, with 24K down by 0.25 AED and 22K down by 0.50 AED per gram.

Investors continue to monitor international spot prices and the strength of the US dollar, both of which remain key drivers of local market movement. With purity levels of 99.9% for 24K, 91.6% for 22K and 75% for 18K, buyers can choose between maximum purity for investment or more durable alloys for jewelry.

Whether you’re purchasing bullion coins, bars or artisanal pieces, today’s live rates provide a clear benchmark for making informed decisions in Abu Dhabi’s dynamic gold market..

Gold Rate in Abu Dhabi (Last 10 Days, per gram)

Average Gold Rate Comparison (1 gram)

Key Fundamentals About Gold

Purity & Karats:
• 24K (99.9% pure) is the highest purity, used mainly for investment bars and coins.
• 22K (91.6% pure) balances purity with durability, popular for jewelry in the UAE.
• 18K (75% pure) blends gold with alloys for stronger, more affordable jewelry options.

Global Benchmark:
Gold prices in Abu Dhabi track the international spot price (e.g., LBMA) plus local fabrication and dealer margins.

Price Drivers:
• USD Strength: Gold is priced in USD when the dollar weakens, gold typically rises.
• Inflation & Interest Rates: Investors buy gold as a hedge against inflation and low real yields.
• Geopolitical Risk: Gold often gains demand and price during global uncertainty or market volatility.

Investment Forms:
• Physical: Bars, coins, and bullion requires secure storage and insurance.
• Paper: ETFs and gold‑backed funds offer liquidity without physical handling.
• Digital: Tokenized gold platforms allow fractional ownership via blockchain.

Storage & Certification:
Always insist on recognized hallmarks (e.g., Emirates Authority for Standardization) and buy from reputable dealers to ensure authenticity.

Liquidity:
Gold in Abu Dhabi can be sold back at major jewelry souks, bullion dealers, or banks often at spot price minus a small buyback margin.

The post Gold Rate Today in Abu Dhabi 22k appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

How to Pay Your Overstay Fine

1. Online via ICA Portal
   • Visit the ICA website → “Apply for Services” → “Pay Fine” → Enter file number & DOB → Pay by card.
2. Immigration Counters
   • At Dubai Airport or land-border checkpoints pay by cash or card.
3. Amer & Typing Centres
   • Settle fines in person at any approved Amer service centre or authorized typing office.
4. Through Your Sponsor
   • For sponsored visas, your company PRO or travel agency can handle payment on your behalf.

Consequences of Not Paying Fines

• Negative Immigration Record: May impact future visa applications.
• Re-Entry Difficulties: Authorities can deny or delay your next trip.
• Deportation & Blacklisting: For severe overstays or absconding cases.

Why You Can’t Overstay

• Flat AED 50/day Fine: Applies to tourist, visit-on-arrival, prepaid and residency visas immediately after expiry (30-day on-arrival visas get a 10-day grace).
• Absconding Penalty: If a sponsor or travel agency files an absconding case, expect at least AED 2,000 extra and risk blacklisting.
• Exit Permit Fee: Without a valid visa, you must buy an out-pass (AED 250–300) before departing.

Special Situations That Overstay Maybe Allowed

• Flight Cancellations/Airport Closures: Notify ICA or your sponsor immediately fines may be waived or deferred during force-majeure events.
• Grace-Period Extension: Some on-arrival visas allow a one-time extension before fines apply. Check your visa type.
• Medical Emergencies: Valid health reasons can sometimes justify a reduction or waiver if documented properly.

Tips to Avoid Overstay Fines

• Track Your Expiry Date: Set calendar reminders; UAE counts your entry day as Day 1.
• Apply Early for Extensions: Start at least 3–5 days before expiry.
• Book Return Travel in Advance: Schedule flights 2+ days before your last allowed day.
• Confirm Grace Periods: Only 30-day on-arrival visas get 10-day grace; others get none.
• Use ICA’s File-Check Tool: Verify your visa status online to avoid surprises.

The post How Much Dubai Overstay Fine: The Bottom-Line Answer appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Dubai Police night work permit, including eligibility, documents, process, fees, and timelines.

Who Needs a Night Work Permit in Dubai?

This permit is required for businesses conducting non-commercial activities during night hours in Dubai, such as:

• Inventory checks in retail stores
• Maintenance inside malls or bank premises
• Billboard installation
• Film or media shoots
• Any closed-hour work that could raise security alerts

Commercial activities like customer-facing retail or sales are not covered under this permit.

Validity & Approval Process

• The permit is valid for up to 14 days from the start date
• Requires No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from:
  • Property management/owner
  • The Central Bank (for banks, exchange houses, or gold shops)

Required Documents

Before applying, ensure the following documents are ready:

1. Emirates ID (front and back) of all employees involved
2. Valid residency permits for workers
3. Trade license of both the business and implementing company
4. Signature authorization letter
5. Arabic letter to CID with:
   • Executing company name
   • Nationality
   • Phone numbers
   • Start and end date/time of work
6. Employee list in Arabic with names, nationalities, and ID numbers
7. NOC from property owner or mall for working after hours
8. Central Bank letter & automated alarm number (only for banks/currency/gold shops)
9. Copy of short-term contract (if duration < 6 months)

How to Apply for the Night Work Permit

You can apply through any of the following Dubai Police channels:

• Dubai Police App (iOS or Android)
• Dubai Police Website
• Smart Police Stations
• Traditional Police Stations

Processing Time: 1 working day
For faster processing, submit all subsidiary and employee data in one request

Fees & Payment Options

• Service Fee: AED 100
• Knowledge Fee: AED 10
• Innovation Fee: AED 10
• Total: AED 120

Accepted payment methods:

• Debit/Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Apple Pay
• Cash (at service centers)

Night Work Permits in Abu Dhabi

If you operate in Abu Dhabi, the process is even faster:

• Permit issued within 4 hours
• No service fee charged

Still, the required documents and NOCs apply.

Note: Please double info with related authorities

The post Night Work Permit Dubai Police: Who Needs It, How to Apply, and What It Covers appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

Dubai x Line Tickets range from AED 499 to AED 699 depending on time and availability.

• Standard Ticket: AED 499 – AED 699
• Includes:
  • Zipline ride
  • GoPro helmet footage
  • Safety briefing and gear

Location & Route

• Start: Amwaj Towers, JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)
• End: Dubai Marina Mall
• Distance: ~1 km
• Height: 170 meters
• Ride Duration: ~45 seconds

Dubai x line video

Dubai X Line is the world’s longest urban zipline, stretching across the iconic Dubai Marina. Operated by XDubai, this ride offers a thrilling experience from Amwaj Towers to Dubai Marina Mall suspended 170 meters above ground and reaching speeds up to 80 km/h.

Booking Tip:
Buy directly from xdubai.com or trusted tour platforms. Occasionally, discounts for UAE residents or group bookings are available.

Safety Requirements

• Age: 12 to 65 years
• Weight: 50 kg to 100 kg
• Height: Minimum 130 cm
• Riders must be in good health and sign a waiver.

All gear is double-checked by certified professionals. XDubai follows international safety standards, making it one of the safest urban zipline setups in the world.

What to Expect on the Day

• Check-in at Dubai Marina Mall
• ID verification + waiver signing
• Gear up with helmet, harness, and GoPro
• Shuttle to launch point (Amwaj Towers)
• Launch and fly over the marina at 80 km/h
• Land safely back at Dubai Marina Mall
• Collect your footage and share the moment!

How long is the xline ride?

The flight lasts approximately 40–45 seconds, covering a distance of 1 km.

Is there a GoPro video included in Dubai x line ride?

Yes, your ride will be recorded, and the footage is typically included in your booking.

Is Dubai xline safe?

Yes. Dubai X Line is operated by XDubai with certified equipment, trained staff, and routine safety checks.

Can kids go on the ride?

Children aged 12 and up can ride, provided they meet the height and weight requirements.

The post Dubai X Line: Price, Location, Safety & What to Expect appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.

Often called the “Dubai Blue Line,” this new metro route will stretch approximately 30 km and add 14 stations to the existing network. Once operational, it will seamlessly connect with both the Red and Green Lines giving you unprecedented access across the emirate without a car.

2. Route Overview & Key Stops

• Green Line Interchange (Al Jaddaf)
  Begins at the Creek interchange, allowing transfers to the existing Green Line.
• Dubai Creek Harbour
  An elevated section offering panoramic views of the Creek skyline.
• Ras Al Khor
  Ideal for nature-lovers visiting the wildlife sanctuary.
• Dubai Silicon Oasis
  Dubai’s tech hub, home to startups, co-working spaces, and cafés.
• Academic City
  Connects some of the region’s major universities and student accommodations.
• Red Line Interchange (Centrepoint)
  Provides a direct link to the Red Line at Al Rashidiya for airport access or Downtown Dubai.

Dubai Metro Blue Line: New Station Names & Coverage Areas

3. Standout Features

• Creek Metro Bridge
  The first-ever metro bridge over Dubai Creek, spanning 1.3 km.
• World’s Tallest Metro Station
  The future Emaar Properties station will soar 74 m above ground, designed by the architects behind the Burj Khalifa.
• Modern Accessibility
  Barrier-free platforms, tactile guidance paths, and dedicated e-scooter/bike zones, ensuring smooth last-mile connections.
• High Capacity
  Designed to carry up to 200,000 passengers daily by 2030, with peak speeds of 80 km/h.

unofficial images

4. When Will It Open?

According to the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), the Blue Line is slated to begin service in 2029. Construction milestones:

• June 2025: Foundation stone laid by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
• 2026–2028: Tunnel boring, station fit-out, and system testing.
• Early 2029: Final safety certifications and public trial runs.

5. Why Ride the Dubai Metro Blue Line?

• Time Savings: Cut cross-city travel times by up to 50 percent.
• No Traffic Jams: Enjoy a smooth, air-conditioned ride even during peak hours.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero-emission electric trains help reduce road congestion and pollution.
• Tourist-Friendly: Direct access to new attractions around Creek Harbour and Silicon Oasis.

6. Tips for First-Time Riders

1. Get your nol card before boarding reload online or at any station kiosk.
2. Plan your transfer at Al Jaddaf or Centrepoint to switch lines seamlessly.
3. Check station facilities most stops will feature retail outlets, prayer rooms, and restrooms.
4. Download the RTA app for real-time schedules and service alerts.

The post Dubai Metro Blue Line Guide: Your Essential Travel Companion appeared first on cigbusinesssetup.ae.