Previously, passengers on Ulaanbaatar City’s public transportation system were able to pay only using the Ulaanbaatar Smart Card. In 2025, the city introduced a new digital payment system, allowing passengers to pay not only with the Smart Card but also using bank cards, mobile applications, QR codes, and cash. This development has provided residents with greater flexibility and convenience when using public transport, making it easier to access buses and other city transit services.
In the past, the city held only a 24 percent stake in Ulaanbaatar Smart Card LLC, which limited its ability to fully monitor and manage public transportation revenues. To address this, the city increased its ownership to 79 percent, effectively tripling its shareholding and gaining the right to monitor and control revenue collection. This step has strengthened oversight and improved the city’s ability to manage income from public transportation services.
As a result, revenue from public transportation grew significantly in 2025. By the end of the year, total income had increased by 69.3 percent, amounting to 23.1 billion MNT. The increase reflects both the expanded payment options and the city’s enhanced ability to manage revenue streams effectively.
The introduction of multiple payment methods demonstrates a practical approach to modernizing public transportation in Ulaanbaatar. It allows passengers to use the system more easily.