Abu Dhabi Elevates Hotel Check-ins with Innovation

Abu Dhabi: Facial Recognition Arrives for Hotel Check-ins

Abu Dhabi has taken another step forward in digital development and enhancing guest experience: the city is introducing facial recognition technology for hotel check-ins. The aim of the system is to simultaneously enhance security and simplify hotel procedures—not only for visitors but also for residents and hospitality workers.

Gradual Introduction—Starting at Five-Star Hotels

The first phase of the program begins in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain Region, and Al Dhafra Region's five-star hotels, eventually extending to four-star hotels as well. The ultimate goal is for all hotel categories to be integrated into the system.

This is the first state-led initiative in Abu Dhabi to introduce facial recognition technology in the hospitality sector, in close collaboration with hotels. During the project's pilot phase, the system is already being tested in several selected hotels.

How Does the System Work?

During guest check-in, the system records and analyzes biometric data. These data are encrypted and sent to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), from where they are entered into a centralized database managed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism.

It is important to emphasize that the data are used exclusively to enhance guest safety and improve hotel processes, in full compliance with UAE cybersecurity and data protection regulations.

Innovation and Guest Experience Go Hand in Hand

The project is realized by the licensing and regulatory division of the Department of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with the ICP. The goal is to ensure the seamless introduction of facial recognition. To this end, the authorities maintain active communication with hotels, provide detailed information, and also offer technical and educational support.

With the help of the new technology, not only does the check-in process become faster—reducing wait times and automating identification—but the check-out process also becomes more efficient. The result is a smoother, technology-driven guest experience.

A Strong Start to the Tourism Year

In the first quarter of 2025, Abu Dhabi achieved outstanding tourism results: 1.4 million guest nights were registered, indicating significant growth. Visitors came from several key target countries, including Asia, Europe, and North America.

The hotel sector's revenue amounted to 2.3 billion dirhams, an 18% increase compared to the same period the previous year. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) reached 484 dirhams, marking a 25% year-on-year increase. Hotel occupancy in the emirate averaged 79%, even during Ramadan, showing high booking rates.

Security Remains a Priority

Abu Dhabi continues to maintain its position as the world's safest city—leading international safety rankings consecutively for the past nine years. The introduction of the new facial recognition system further reinforces this reputation, as it guarantees not only speed and convenience but also enhanced security for guests and employees.

Summary

The use of facial recognition in Abu Dhabi hotels represents both the technology of the future and guest-centric thinking. The system allows guests to check into their accommodations quickly and securely, while considerable emphasis is placed on data protection.

This innovation not only increases hotel efficiency but also contributes to the emirate's tourism competitiveness. With this, Abu Dhabi sets a new standard in the region, showcasing how digitalization can be harnessed for experience-focused hospitality.

(Source: Press Release from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).)