Abu Dhabi's hotel classification system receives regional recognition

The system, launched following two years of collaborative planning with the emirate's private sector, has been referred to the ATMC's technical secretariat to be recommended as a benchmark practice for other Arab destinations.

'This is recognition for Abu Dhabi's overall tourism industry not just the authority,' said His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA.

'The system owes much to the input of all our stakeholders who came together to produce an efficient, transparent process from which all, including our valued visitors, will benefit.'

ADTA's classification system is unique in that for the first time in the industry it combines both mandatory and scoring methodologies. Designed to deliver destination integrity, the system is now being implemented with inspectors from the authority visiting the emirate's hotels and hotel apartments.

'Our aim is to have all hotel establishments classified by the end of this year,' said Nasser Al Reyami, Director, Tourism Standards, ADTA.

Abu Dhabi's classification system will rank the emirate's hotels on a one-to-five star rating system with hotel apartments being ranked deluxe, superior or standard.

The entire classification process can be tracked and traced by hotel owners and operators via a password-protected proprietary online system - eclass.

'The system is an excellent resource for developers who are currently planning hotel projects within the emirate and will encourage existing property owners to invest in upgrades to improve their ranking,' added Al Reyami.