Abu Dhabi introduces face-recognition tech across hotels to streamline guest check-in, enhance safety, and boost efficiency in the tourism sector.
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| The UAE capital deploys face-recognition across hotels to improve guest security, accelerate check-in processes, and support its booming tourism economy. Image Courtesy: KT |
ABU DHABI, UAE – April 29, 2025:
Abu Dhabi is introducing face-recognition technology across all hotels in a major digital transformation aimed at improving safety, streamlining operations, and enhancing the guest experience. The initiative, launched by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), marks the emirate’s first government-led rollout of biometric hotel check-ins.
The facial recognition system captures and encrypts biometric data during guest check-in, which is securely processed by ICP and stored in a centralised database managed by DCT Abu Dhabi. The data will be used strictly for verification and operational efficiency, in full compliance with UAE cybersecurity and data protection laws.
Currently in its pilot phase, the system is being tested in selected hotels. The full rollout will begin with five-star hotels in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra Region. It will later expand to four-star hotels and eventually cover all hotel categories across the emirate.
“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,” said Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi.
Hotels are being provided with direct support, system training, and technical guidance to ensure seamless integration. Beyond improving safety, the initiative significantly reduces check-in time and boosts overall operational efficiency — delivering a smooth, tech-enabled experience for visitors.
The rollout comes at a time of strong growth in Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector. In the first quarter of 2025, the emirate welcomed 1.4 million overnight visitors and generated hotel revenues of Dh2.3 billion ($626 million), an 18% increase year-on-year. Hotel occupancy averaged 79%, with a notable increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR), reaching Dh484 — up 25% from 2024.
Abu Dhabi’s tourism contribution to the economy is projected to reach Dh62 billion in 2025, supporting over 255,000 jobs. The city, which has been ranked the safest in the world for nine consecutive years by Numbeo’s Safety Index, sees this initiative as a way to further solidify its global standing.
By integrating cutting-edge biometric tools into its tourism framework, Abu Dhabi is setting a new standard for smart hospitality, reinforcing both its economic ambitions and its reputation for safety and innovation.