Abu Dhabi is introducing face-recognition technology across all hotels to enhance the safety of visitors, residents, and staff. The initiative aims to streamline guest verification, simplify procedures, and significantly reduce check-in times.
The system collects and processes biometric data during check-in. This data is securely encrypted, verified through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), and stored in a central database managed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).
Used solely to improve guest safety and optimise hotel operations, the technology complies with UAE data privacy and cybersecurity laws. This marks the capital’s first government-led project to introduce face recognition in collaboration with hotels. It is currently being piloted in select establishments.
The initial rollout will begin with five-star hotels in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, followed by four-star hotels and later extended to all hotel categories. The Licensing & Regulatory Compliance Department at DCT Abu Dhabi is implementing the system with ICP’s support.
DCT Abu Dhabi is coordinating closely with hotels to ensure a smooth implementation through briefings, training, and technical assistance. The system also improves operational efficiency, offering guests a seamless, tech-enhanced experience.
The capital’s tourism sector is performing strongly in 2025, with 1.4 million overnight visitors in the first quarter. Top-performing markets included India, China, Russia, the UK, and the USA.
Hotel revenues reached AED 2.3B (USD 626M), up 18% from last year. RevPAR climbed to AED 484, a 25% annual increase, with occupancy at 79% across the emirate.
Tourism is expected to contribute AED 62B to the economy this year, supporting 255,000 jobs. Already ranked the world’s safest city by Numbeo for nine years running, Abu Dhabi continues to reinforce its global standing.
