Buses are widely regarded as a piece of public transport convenient and cost effective for commuting within the city of Sharjah. The Sharjah Bus Card is one of the key features making this system so convenient as it is smart, cashless payment method for bus rides.
Those days are long gone when you had to carry cash or deal with change. Everything becomes easier with the Sharjah bus card; you simply tap your card on the bus reader and pay the fare. In this guide, we’ll cover everything there is to know about checking your Sharjah Bus Card balance and how to load it.
What is the Sharjah Bus Card?
The Sharjah Bus Card is the prepaid card provided by the Sharjah Road and Transport Authority (SRTA). The service is aimed at residents and visitors who can use it to travel around Sharjah’s public bus network without having to use cash. The card allows you to pay for bus fares just by tapping your card on a card reader when boarding the bus. It saves time, and makes your travel experience more seamless.
Types of Sharjah Bus Cards
Before we get to how to check your balance and how to recharge your card, it’s important to know that there are several types of Sharjah Bus Cards, each designed for different needs.
- Blue Card: If you don’t use public buses regularly, this card is for occasional travellers. The Blue Card gives you a 25% discount on bus fares. Take for example a ticket that usually carries a price of AED 8 will cost only AED 6 for Blue Cardholders. This card is valid for five years, and you can choose between different recharge options: AED 50, AED 95, and AED 185.
- Grey Card: The Grey Card is designed for frequent bus commuters using unlimited travel for a fixed monthly fee of AED 225 per month. The validity of the Grey Card is also five years, but it has to be charged monthly.
- White Card: People of determination and social assistance beneficiaries can travel for free on this special card. The White Card lasts for one year and is free to get.
How to Check Your Sharjah Bus Card Balance
It’s easy to check the balance on your Sharjah Bus Card. Each time you use the card to pay for a bus ride you will receive a receipt which will tell you how much the fare was, and how much you have left on the card. It’s so easy to remember how much money you have left on your card.
However, if you are a Grey Cardholder, you don’t have to check the balance regularly as the card is unlimited rides at a fixed monthly fee. As long as you are subscribed, you can travel as much as you want.
How to Recharge Your Sharjah Bus Card
Recharging your Sharjah Bus Card is a straightforward process, but there’s one important thing to note: Now, recharges can only be done in person, on a bus or at retail points. Here’s how you can recharge your card:
- Onboard the Bus: You may opt to recharge your Blue Card with a particular sum of money or choose the monthly subscription for the Grey Card. After you make the payment, the driver will load the new balance on your card, and will give you a receipt as a proof of the transaction.
- Vending Machines and Retail Points: In addition to that, you can recharge your card at different vending machines or retail outlets in Sharjah. They take cash or card and the process is simple and quick.
Registering Your Sharjah Bus Card
You may want to register your Sharjah Bus Card in case your balance gets lost or damaged. If your card is lost, registration means it can be deactivated, and you don’t lose your money. To register your card, follow these simple steps:
- You can visit the SRTA official website or the registration page on the Mowasalat website.
- Fill your details like name, card number, Emirates ID and create a password.
- After you register, your card will be associated with your personal information and the registration process will usually takes 7 to 10 days.
Tips for Using Your Sharjah Bus Card
- Top Up Regularly: Recharges need to be done in person, so it’s a good idea to keep your card topped up so you don’t run out of balance when you need it most. If you’re a Blue Cardholder, don’t forget to check your balance each time you use your card and after each trip by checking your receipt.
- Track Your Subscription: The subscription is valid for one month, so remember if you have a Grey Card. To continue having unlimited bus rides all over Sharjah, make sure you recharge it on time.
- Use Your Card for Convenience: Always carry your Sharjah Bus Card inside your wallet or a place where you can get your hands on it as soon as you board the bus. Always good to check the card’s balance before you leave home to avoid any surprises.
The Sharjah Bus Card is the easy, practical way to pay for buses in Sharjah. If you’re a regular commuter or an occasional user, there’s a card for you. Keeping track of your balance, recharging your card as required and registering your card for extra security, you can travel around Sharjah’s public bus network without hassle. Next time when you travel via a bus don’t forget to tap on the Sharjah Bus Card to have a hassle free travel!
