Hotels to Implement Facial Recognition

Abu Dhabi hotels are implementing a facial recognition system to boost efficiency and safety. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced the initiative, starting with 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra regions. This rollout will later expand to 4-star hotels and other categories.

The system aims to improve guest verification, simplify procedures, and reduce check-in times. This aligns with Abu Dhabi's global safety ranking, recognized as the world's safest city for nine consecutive years. The DCT Abu Dhabi is overseeing the project through its Licensing & Regulatory Compliance Department.

The facial recognition system captures and analyzes biometric data during check-in. This data is securely encrypted, retrieved from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), and transmitted to a centralized DCT Abu Dhabi database.

The data will be used solely to enhance guest safety and streamline hotel operations, adhering to legal and ethical standards. The initiative is a result of a cooperation agreement between DCT Abu Dhabi and the ICP, ensuring a safer and more connected experience for visitors.