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”.

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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.