New hotel rating system for Abu Dhabi

According to the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), hotels and hotel apartments in the emirate will have a new classification, and will be rated on the basis of stars while apartments will be classified as deluxe, superior or standard.

"This is a major step forward in the delivery of destination integrity. It will provide much-needed consistency to tour operators selling the destination," said Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA. "The system will also provide a framework for hotel investors when designing their properties. They will include the necessary facilities and services to attract their desired market groups. It will also be an incentive to hotel owners and managers to upgrade their facilities," he added.

Meanwhile, the ADTA has added five new categories to the classification -- environmental issues, special needs, comprehensive detailed standards, consideration for cultural tourism sustainability and implementation planning.