Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) is to expand its hotel classification system to recognise properties judged to exceed five-star requirements.
ADTA Chairman Shaikh Sultan Bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan said the system revisions would apply to properties such as Emirates Palace — renowned as one of the world's most opulent hotels.
"We are currently working on upgrading the system to include a new category which will, more accurately, represent properties deemed as above five-star," he said.
Setting standards
Speaking at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) in Dubai on Monday, Shaikh Sultan said ADTA will also roll out classification standards for restaurants and desert camps.
"These refinements to our classification system will come into effect in the New Year and will further enhance Abu Dhabi's destination credibility," he said.
"We are committed to delivering quality across the entire tourism sector and are introducing these standards in collaboration with our stakeholders who are eager to accompany us on our road to excellence."
Shaikh Sultan also revealed that within two weeks, ADTA will roll out its Green Hotel Building Guidelines, which will also be absorbed into the upgraded classification system.
"We have been working on these guidelines for over six months and expect to have them ready for piloting within the next fortnight... Our aim is to ensure Abu Dhabi's hospitality industry is on a par with the world's greenest hotels... " he said.
