Abu Dhabi is setting new benchmarks in hospitality and security by launching a cutting-edge face-recognition technology system across all hotels. The initiative, a first of its kind led by the government, aims to enhance guest verification, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the highest standards of cybersecurity and data privacy.
Revolutionizing Guest Experience with Biometric Verification
The new system will capture and analyze biometric data during check-in, significantly reducing check-in time while improving security. Guest information will be securely encrypted and transmitted to a centralized database managed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in cooperation with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
Phased Rollout Across Hotel Categories
The first phase of the rollout will target five-star hotels across Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra Region. Following its success, the technology will gradually expand to four-star hotels and eventually cover all remaining categories. This staged deployment ensures smooth integration and minimizes disruption to hotel operations.
Commitment to Cybersecurity and Data Privacy
Guest data collected through facial recognition will be strictly used for enhancing safety and streamlining hotel processes, adhering to stringent UAE cybersecurity and data privacy regulations. Encryption and ethical data management practices form the foundation of this initiative, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s commitment to guest trust and protection.
Boosting Operational Efficiency for Hotels
Beyond safety, the face-recognition system will streamline check-in and check-out processes, allowing hotels to allocate resources more efficiently. This technological leap supports Abu Dhabi’s vision of creating seamless, tech-driven hospitality experiences while strengthening its position as a global tourism leader.
Supporting Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Boom
Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector recorded a strong start in 2025, welcoming 1.4 million overnight visitors in the first quarter. Hotels generated revenues of Dh2.3 billion ($626 million), marking an 18% increase compared to the same period last year. Hotel occupancy averaged an impressive 79% across the emirate, including during Ramadan.
The sector is projected to contribute Dh62 billion to the economy in 2025, supporting 255,000 jobs—a 13% increase from 2024, highlighting the growing significance of tourism to Abu Dhabi’s economy.
Enhancing Abu Dhabi’s Global Safety Reputation
Already ranked the world’s safest city for the ninth consecutive year by Numbeo’s Safety Index, Abu Dhabi’s implementation of facial recognition technology further reinforces its status. This move not only enhances security but also ensures that the emirate remains a preferred destination for global travelers.
Future of Hospitality: A Safer, Smarter Stay
Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, stated, “This initiative reflects our commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance the guest experience while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security for both guests and hospitality sector employees.”
By working closely with hotel partners and national authorities, Abu Dhabi is ensuring a seamless, safer, and more connected journey for every visitor. As more travelers seek convenience and assurance, Abu Dhabi’s hotels are well on their way to becoming the gold standard in hospitality excellence worldwide.
The tourism sector is set to contribute Dh62 billion to the economy in 2025, a 13 per cent increase from 2024, and support 255,000 jobs across the emirate in 2025.
The UAE capital is already ranked the world’s safest city by Numbeo’s Safety Index and this new initiative will further strengthen its position among global cities. It has been ranked the safest city in the world for the 9th consecutive year.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance the guest experience while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security for both guests and hospitality sector employees. By working closely with ICP and our hotel partners and national authorities, we are ensuring a seamless, safer and more connected journey for every visitor,” said Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi.
