How to Check Hafilat Card Balance?

Public transport is the backbone of urban commuting, and in Abu Dhabi, the Hafilat card ensures easy access to buses and other transport services.

Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, keeping track of your Hafilat card balance is crucial to avoid disruptions in your journey.

In this detailed guide, I will walk you through the various methods to check your Hafilat card balance. From online tools to offline options, you’ll find everything you need to keep your travel smooth and stress-free.

Table of Contents

How to Check Hafilat Card Balance? – All Methods

1. Check Hafilat Card Balance Online

The Hafilat Balance Inquiry Service is accessible through the official Hafilat Darb Portal, a convenient platform for cardholders. By following these straightforward steps, you can quickly check your Hafilat card balance online:

Step 1: Go to the Hafilat Darb Portal

Start by opening a web browser on your computer or mobile device. Navigate to the official Hafilat Darb portal by entering the URL: hafilat.darb.ae.

Step 2: Select the “Recharge Card” Option

On the homepage of the portal, look to the right side of the screen for the “Recharge Card” option. Click on it to proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Enter Your Hafilat Card Number

Locate your Hafilat card and find the serial number printed on the back. This unique number is essential for checking your balance or recharging your card. Enter the number into the designated field on the portal.

Step 4: Click “OK”

After double-checking that you’ve entered the card number correctly, click the “OK” button to proceed.

Step 5: View Your Hafilat Card Balance

Your current Hafilat card balance will appear under the “Card Details” section. If your balance is running low, you can recharge directly on the portal. If no recharge is needed, simply close the browser window after confirming your balance.

2. Check Hafilat Card Balance Using the Darb Mobile App

The Darb mobile app offers an accessible way to manage your Hafilat card. Both Apple and Android users can download the app for free from their respective app stores.

Steps to Check Your Balance Through the Darb App

Download and Install the App: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android) and download the Darb app.
Login or Register: If you’re already a user, log in with your username and password. New users need to register by providing their Emirates ID, mobile number, and other details.
Access Public Transport Services: Navigate to the “Services” section and select “Public Transport.”
Choose the Hafilat Cards Option: Tap on the “Hafilat Cards” section. If you already have cards added, tap on a specific card to view its balance.
Add a New Card (If Needed): If the Hafilat Cards section is empty, tap on the “+” icon, enter your Hafilat card serial number, and add it to the app.
Check Your Balance: Once the card is added, tap on it to see the current balance anytime.

3. Check Hafilat Card Balance at Ticket Vending Machines

Ticket vending machines are conveniently placed at bus stops, terminals, and stations across Abu Dhabi. These machines are designed for quick balance checks and recharges.

Steps to Use a Ticket Vending Machine

Locate a ticket vending machine near you.
Insert your Hafilat card into the card slot.
Select your preferred language on the machine’s interface.
Choose the “View Balance” or “Show Balance” option from the menu.
Check your balance as it appears on the machine’s screen.

These machines are available 24/7 and are easy to operate, making them a reliable option for travelers.

4. Check Hafilat Card Balance by SMS

For those without access to the internet or a smartphone, the SMS service is a practical alternative for balance inquiries. However, this method requires your mobile number to be linked to your Hafilat card.

Steps for Checking Your Balance via SMS

Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
Compose a new message in the format: BAL<space>Your Hafilat Card Serial Number.
Send the message to 3009.
Within moments, you’ll receive an SMS with your current card balance and card expiry details.

Note: Standard SMS charges may apply depending on your telecom provider.

5. Check Hafilat Card Balance at Customer Service Centers

Customer service centers in Abu Dhabi offer personalized assistance for Hafilat cardholders. These centers provide a range of services, including balance inquiries, card recharges, and fine payments.

Steps for Checking Your Balance at a Service Center

Visit the nearest Hafilat customer service center.
Provide your Hafilat card to the service executive.
Request a balance inquiry. The executive will check your balance and inform you of the amount available on your card.
Collect your card and exit the center.

Customer service centers are an excellent option for individuals who prefer face-to-face interactions or need assistance with other card-related issues.

How to Recharge the Hafilat Card Balance?

Recharging your Hafilat card balance is a straightforward process, ensuring that you always have sufficient funds for seamless travel across Abu Dhabi’s public transport system.

The Hafilat portal makes it easy to add funds to your card online, with various recharge amounts available to suit your needs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to recharge your Hafilat card balance, including a breakdown of recharge amounts and bonuses.

Recharge Options and Benefits

The Hafilat portal offers multiple recharge denominations, each with a clear breakdown of the credit you’ll receive. The table below provides a snapshot of the recharge amounts and any applicable bonuses:

Recharge Amount (AED)	Amount Added to Balance (AED)	Bonus Amount (AED)	Total Credit Received (AED)	Recharge Method	Service Fee
10	10	0	10	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free
20	20	0	20	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free
30	30	0	30	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free
50	50	5	55	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free
100	100	10	110	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free
200	200	20	220	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free
500	500	50	550	Hafilat Portal or Abu Dhabi DoT Website	Free

As shown, recharging higher amounts offers additional bonus credit, allowing you to maximize your value.

Steps to Recharge Hafilat Card Balance Online

Step 1: Access the Hafilat Portal

Open a web browser and go to the official Hafilat portal or the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (DoT) website.
If you’re a first-time user, you’ll need to sign up by providing personal information, including your Emirates ID and contact details.
For returning users, simply log in with your existing credentials.

Step 2: Select the “Recharge” Option

Once logged in, navigate to the “Recharge” section of the portal.
This section allows you to choose the desired amount you wish to add to your card balance.

Step 3: Choose Your Recharge Amount

Select a recharge amount from the available denominations (e.g., AED 10, 20, 50, etc.).
The portal will display the total credit, including any bonus credit associated with the selected amount.

Step 4: Confirm the Transaction

Double-check your selected recharge amount and confirm the transaction.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the payment using your preferred payment method (e.g., debit or credit card).

Step 5: Verify Your Balance

After the transaction is processed, the recharge amount will be instantly added to your Hafilat card.
You can check your updated balance online through the portal or by using one of the other balance inquiry methods (e.g., vending machines, Darb app, SMS).

Key Benefits of Online Recharge

Convenience: Recharge anytime, anywhere without the need to visit a physical location.
Transparency: See your total credit and bonus details before confirming the transaction.
No Additional Fees: All online recharges are free of service charges.
Instant Updates: The recharge amount reflects immediately in your account, ensuring uninterrupted travel.

Tips for Managing Your Hafilat Card Balance

Set Regular Reminders: Check your balance periodically to avoid running out of funds.
Keep Emergency Funds: Always maintain a minimum balance to handle unplanned trips.
Monitor Your Usage: Use the transaction history feature to track your spending and plan your recharges accordingly.
Resolve Issues Quickly: Contact customer support immediately if you notice discrepancies in your balance.

Conclusion

Keeping your Hafilat card balance in check is essential for hassle-free travel in Abu Dhabi.

Whether you prefer using online portals, mobile apps, or offline options like vending machines and SMS, there’s a solution to suit every need. Regularly monitoring your balance ensures you’re always prepared for your journeys, saving you time and stress.

FAQs about Hafilat Card Balance

How can I check my Hafilat card balance without the internet?

You can use the SMS service or visit a ticket vending machine to check your balance offline.

What should I do if my Hafilat card balance is not updating?

Ensure your last transaction has been processed. If the issue persists, contact Hafilat customer support or visit a service center.

Can I use the Darb app on any smartphone?

Yes, the Darb app is compatible with Android and iOS devices. Ensure you download the latest version for a seamless experience.

Is there a minimum balance requirement for Hafilat cards?

Yes, maintaining a minimum balance is necessary to avoid interruptions in your travel.

Where can I locate Hafilat ticket vending machines?

These machines are available at major bus stations, malls, and public transport hubs across Abu Dhabi.

Are there any charges for balance inquiries via SMS?

While the balance inquiry is free, standard SMS charges from your telecom provider may apply.

Can I recharge my Hafilat card internationally?

Yes, you can use the online recharge feature to add funds to your card from anywhere in the world.

How to Check Hafilat Card Balance? | Step-by-Step Guide