Abu Dhabi hotels must adopt Emirati Hospitality Standards from early 2027

Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism has launched the Emirati Hospitality Standards, a framework with 65 measurable requirements covering eight stages of a visitor's journey. The standards, developed with the National Projects Office and National Identity Committee, aim to weave Emirati culture into the hospitality sector.

Hotels must implement at least 20 standards—10 mandatory and 10 of their choosing. Mandatory requirements include: providing cultural information on websites and pre-arrival; having at least one reception staff member wear Emirati national dress; training guest-facing staff to explain three traditional Emirati dishes; and incorporating one Emirati heritage design element in public areas. Hotels will be encouraged to serve Arabic coffee, dates, and traditional dishes like harees and balaleet.

Hotel apartments follow a simplified framework requiring five mandatory standards plus five selected by the property. The framework is designed flexibly to accommodate different establishment types. Participating properties will receive implementation guidance and specialised training in Emirati culture.