The Hafilat App (also called the Darb App) helps you check balance, top up, view bus timings, and manage multiple cards in Abu Dhabi. Install it on iOS or Android, add your card, and open My Cards to see your balance and alerts. Below are the steps, features, and fixes.
Do this next
- Install the app on iOS/Android and sign in or create an account.
- Add your Hafilat card by entering the serial; name each card (e.g., “Home,” “Student”).
- Enable low-balance alerts; after any online top-up, tap a bus validator once to sync.
Table of Contents
Download and first setup (Darb App)
Where to install
Find the official app on the Apple App Store or Google Play. Check the publisher name before installing.
Create or sign in
Use an email/phone to make an account, then verify. Keep your login available if you change devices.
Add your Hafilat card
Open My Cards → Add card. Enter the serial exactly as printed. Label cards to avoid mix-ups.
Turn on alerts
Enable low-balance notifications and choose a threshold (for example, AED 10) so you never board short.
Check balance and top up in the app
See your balance
Go to My Cards; your current amount shows under each card. If it looks stale, pull to refresh the screen.
Recharge options
Use bank cards or supported mobile wallets to top up. Keep the confirmation and note the reference ID.
Sync after online top-up
Most online credits apply after one tap at a bus validator or station machine. Do this before your next ride.
Plan trips and bus timings
Journey planner basics
Search your destination, compare suggested routes, and note transfer points and walking time.
Real-time arrivals
Use live arrival estimates to minimize waiting and choose the quickest bus.
Save frequent routes
Bookmark common trips (home ↔ office, school ↔ gym) to check times faster.
Using your card on buses and at stations
Tap validators correctly
On boarding, hold the card flat to the reader until you hear/see confirmation. Many validators briefly display remaining balance.
Station machines for backup
Ticket vending or balance inquiry machines can show balance and print a receipt; they’re also handy for cash top-ups.
Multiple cards in one account
Families can add several cards to the same login. Use clear names and separate alerts per card.
Troubleshooting and common issues
Card not found in app
Re-check the serial (watch 0 vs O). If it’s a replacement card, wait a short while or add it at a service counter.
Balance not updating after top-up
Allow a few minutes, then perform a single validator tap to sync. If it still doesn’t post, keep the receipt and contact support from inside the app.
App login or device changes
If you switch phones, sign in with the same account. For a lost device, change your password promptly.
Privacy, security, and eligibility
Protecting your card data
Use the official app only. Avoid sharing your full card number in public channels.
Lost or damaged card
Freeze or replace cards via official channels. Bring ID if a counter visit is required.
When features differ by device
Some features may vary by phone model, OS version, or eligibility. If a function is missing, check app settings and update notes.
Step-by-step quick guide
- Install the Darb App and sign in.
- Add your Hafilat card (enter serial) and name it.
- Open My Cards → Balance to view credit.
- Tap Recharge to add funds; keep the confirmation.
- Tap a bus validator once to sync any online top-up.
- Enable low-balance alerts to avoid surprises.
| Action | Where to find | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check balance | My Cards → Balance | Refresh if the number looks old |
| Top up | My Cards → Recharge | Card/mobile wallet payments |
| Real-time times | Timetables/Arrivals | Useful for planning transfers |
| Trip history | My Travels/History | Export if you track expenses |
| Add another card | My Cards → Add | Label clearly (e.g., “Student”) |
| Feature | App | Physical card |
|---|---|---|
| Balance view | Yes | Validator/TVM only |
| Online top-up | Yes | Not applicable |
| Cash top-up | Via stations/retail | Yes |
| Loss response | Manage via account | Replace at counters |
| Multi-card management | Yes (labels/alerts) | One card at a time |
Pro Tip: After any online top-up, do one quick validator tap before your next ride. This prevents the old balance from showing when you board.
FAQs
Is the Hafilat App the same as the Darb App?
Yes—locally, people use both names. It’s the official app for Abu Dhabi buses that lets you view balance, top up, see live arrivals, and plan trips in one place.
Can I use the app without internet?
Core viewing may work briefly, but you’ll need a connection for reliable balance refreshes, top-ups, and live arrival times. If offline, use a station machine for balance.
Does the app replace the physical card on buses?
Keep your physical card for tapping validators. The app is best for balance, top-ups, alerts, and planning. If your setup offers more, follow the in-app instructions.
How do I manage family or student cards?
Add each card in My Cards and label them (e.g., “Home,” “Student”). Turn on separate low-balance alerts so you know which one needs a top-up.