Abu Dhabi Tourism Unveils New Hotel Classification Guidelines to Elevate Visitor Experience

Abu Dhabi is updating its hotel classification system to match global tourism trends and boost visitor numbers by over 50% between 2023 and 2030. The new guidelines will create clearer quality standards for hotels ranging from one to five stars, with completion expected by the second quarter of 2026.

The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi first introduced hotel classification guidelines in 2007, setting minimum mandatory standards and rating criteria. They updated it in 2018 to include guest experience indicators, mystery evaluations, and product design elements. This latest version builds on those foundations while adding quality improvements aimed at creating a global model for hospitality excellence.

Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at the department, said the updated classification guide represents an important step toward achieving Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030 goals. The emirate wants to position itself as a leading global center for hospitality regulation while showcasing its unique cultural identity and traditional hospitality.

The updated guide includes changes in three main areas and reflects current global best practices. It expands classification categories to cover a wider range of hotels and resorts, plus introduces recognition awards for hotels that exceed standards and deliver exceptional service in specific areas.

Guests will benefit from improved accommodation experiences and consistent quality levels across properties. Hotels can showcase their excellence through specialized quality classifications, while investors get simplified infrastructure requirements. This strengthens Abu Dhabi's presence on the global tourism map.

Several teams from the Department of Culture and Tourism are working on the project, including tourism planning, strategy, and marketing divisions. The department held intensive consultation sessions with hotel industry partners throughout the update process. The project also includes a benchmarking phase where experts analyze and evaluate the latest travel and tourism trends, including artificial intelligence's role in shaping classification standards.

The Licensing and Supervision Department oversees the project, developing the updated guide and monitoring its implementation. They're ensuring hotels receive full support during the transition period and that new standards apply consistently across the emirate. Through their regulatory and supervisory role, the department aims to maintain the highest quality levels while establishing new global standards that reflect Abu Dhabi's unique identity and authentic hospitality.