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Face Recognition Tech Rolls Out In Abu Dhabi Hotels

The facial recognition technology will boost security and streamline guest check-ins, aligning with the UAE’s push toward digital innovation.

Published

3 weeks ago

April 29, 2025

Nour Nasir

face recognition tech rolls out in abu dhabi hotels

Abu Dhabi Media Office

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) has launched a new facial recognition system for hotels in the emirate, aiming to improve both guest experience and overall safety. The move is part of a broader effort to position Abu Dhabi as a global leader in secure, tech-forward hospitality.

Managed by DCT Abu Dhabi’s Licensing & Regulatory Compliance Department, this initiative supports the city’s long-standing reputation for safety — including holding the top spot in Numbeo’s Safety Index for nine years in a row.

Introduced during the Arabian Travel Market event, the technology focuses on making hotel check-ins faster and more efficient. It works by capturing biometric data during check-in, which is then securely encrypted and stored in a centralized database overseen by DCT Abu Dhabi. The data handling complies with UAE regulations around cybersecurity and personal privacy. According to the department, this information is strictly used to improve safety and streamline hotel operations.

H.E. 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”.

Also Read: Dubai Integrates LiDAR & Digital Twins For Road Management

This is the first government project in the emirate to integrate facial recognition technology directly within hotel operations. The system is currently being piloted in select locations, with an initial focus on five-star properties in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. A second rollout will bring the technology to four-star hotels, with further expansion planned down the line.

To ensure a smooth roll out, DCT Abu Dhabi is actively working with hotel operators — offering tech support, training, and detailed guidance. The aim is to increase operational efficiency while providing a modern, touchless check-in and check-out experience for guests.

This system is part of a broader agreement between DCT Abu Dhabi and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The collaboration promotes digital innovation within tourism, including joint pilot projects, cybersecurity enhancements, and integrated data systems — all aligned with the UAE’s national digital transformation goals.

Related Topics:Abu Dhabi Facial Recognition

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UAE’s Etihad Rail Launches In 2026 — What You Need To Know

A 1,200 km passenger network will transform public transport, with 11 connected cities, and high-speed trains cutting inter-emirate travel times.

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2025

Nour Nasir

Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail has confirmed that its long-anticipated passenger train service will officially launch in 2026, ushering in a new era of high-speed, inter-emirate travel. The UAE’s national railway developer shared the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), as work continues on a 1,200 km passenger network set to connect 11 cities across all seven emirates.

The news marks a major leap in public transportation for the country, with passenger trains designed to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. Travel times will be significantly reduced — Abu Dhabi to Dubai is expected to take just under an hour, while the journey to Fujairah will be cut to around 105 minutes. A separate high-speed line, capable of reaching 350 km/h, is also in the works to link Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes.

The backbone of the network was completed in 2023, when Etihad Rail launched its 900 km freight service linking key industrial and logistics hubs across the UAE, including ports in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah. Now, the focus has shifted to passenger infrastructure.

The first station will be located in Sakamkam, Fujairah city centre, and a second is confirmed near University City in Sharjah. Dubai’s main station is expected to be adjacent to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, while Abu Dhabi’s is anticipated along the corridor separating Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.

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Once completed, the passenger network will link cities including Al Sila, Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Integration with Oman is also part of the long-term vision. A new cross-border project — Hafeet Rail — will span 303 km between Sohar and Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba area. Developed by Etihad Rail in collaboration with Oman Rail and Mubadala, the link is expected to deepen trade and tourism ties between the two countries.

Etihad Rail’s passenger trains will carry up to 400 passengers each and feature Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points, and onboard food and beverage options to ensure a comfortable experience. To further simplify access, passengers will be able to pay with their nol cards, thanks to a partnership between Etihad Rail and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The collaboration aims to integrate fare payments and booking systems under one unified platform.