Abu Dhabi - UAE
During its participation in the Arabian Travel Market 2026, the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi announced the launch of the updated version of the hotel establishments classification guide in the emirate, in a step aimed at improving the quality of services and guest experience, and keeping pace with the rapid transformations in the global hospitality sector.

International standards, sustainability and broader classification categories

The new guide establishes clearer and more flexible standards, by expanding classification categories and enhancing their compatibility with international best practices, in addition to developing sustainability requirements. It also includes seven new awards of appreciation awarded to distinguished establishments in the fields of Emirati hospitality, sustainability, wellness, and innovation in hospitality.

Senior official: Continued growth requires the highest quality standards

In this context, Hamad Mohammed Sudin, Executive Director of the Support Services Sector at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, confirmed that the tourism sector in the emirate is witnessing continuous growth, and said: “We are working to keep up with this momentum by maintaining the highest standards of quality and service and improving the guest experience, as they are basic pillars for achieving our long-term ambitions.”
Direct benefit for Arab tourists and investors

Arab tourists, especially those coming from the Gulf countries, will enjoy tangible gains from this modernization, as they will find more consistent and high-quality hotel experiences, with clearer classifications that make it easier for them to choose the accommodation that suits their aspirations, whether in city hotels or coastal resorts. As for the Arab investor, he benefits from greater clarity regarding infrastructure requirements and operating standards, which reduces investment risks and accelerates the pace of development in the sector.

A grace period and support for establishments during the transition

The department issued the guide for the first time in 2007 before updating it in 2018, while allocating a grace period for all hotel establishments to implement the new standards smoothly. The Control and Licensing Department will lead the project and supervise implementation, ensuring uniform implementation across the emirate, and supporting the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030.