UAE is Making Facial Recognition Compulsory for Hotel Check-in

Abu Dhabi is set to implement facial recognition systems in hotels to bolster safety measures for guests, staff, and residents. The initiative is designed to improve identity verification, streamline check-in procedures, and reduce waiting times significantly.

This advanced technology will capture biometric information during the check-in process. The data, which is securely encrypted, will be retrieved by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) and stored in a centralised database overseen by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The collected information will be strictly used to enhance safety and improve hotel operations, in full compliance with UAE cybersecurity and data protection laws.

This marks Abu Dhabi’s first government-led rollout of facial recognition technology within the hospitality sector. A pilot phase is currently being tested at selected hotels across the emirate.

In the initial stage, the system will be deployed at five-star hotels in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region. The second phase will expand the program to four-star establishments, eventually including all hotel categories.

DCT Abu Dhabi is working in collaboration with ICP through its Licensing and Regulatory Compliance Department to ensure a smooth implementation. The department is also offering hotels detailed briefings, training, and technical support to ease the transition.

Beyond enhancing security, the technology aims to elevate the overall guest experience by making check-in and check-out processes faster and more efficient.

The move comes as Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector shows strong growth in 2025. In the first quarter alone, the emirate welcomed 1.4 million overnight guests. Key source markets included India, China, Russia, the UK, and the US.

Hotel revenues reached AED 2.3 billion (around $626 million), representing an 18% increase from the previous year. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) rose to AED 484, marking a 25% year-on-year jump. Average hotel occupancy across the emirate stood at 79%, even during Ramadan.

Tourism is projected to contribute AED 62 billion to Abu Dhabi’s economy in 2025, up 13% from 2024, supporting approximately 255,000 jobs.

Recognized for its safety, Abu Dhabi has been named the world’s safest city for the ninth consecutive year by Numbeo’s Safety Index. The introduction of facial recognition in hospitality is expected to further cement this reputation.

“This project highlights our dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology to improve the visitor experience while maintaining top-tier safety standards,” said Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi. “By working alongside ICP, our hotel partners, and government agencies, we’re creating a more secure and seamless journey for everyone who visits the capital.”