The city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a one-time contactless hotel guest check-in system, with an aim to optimise arrival procedures for visitors.
The biometric and digital technology capability allows guests to complete registration procedures electronically before arrival at hotels and holiday homes across the city.
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Developed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism in collaboration with several technology providers, the new solution enables guests to upload identification documents and biometric data once via their mobile phones.
After initial registration, guests can bypass traditional check-in desks for all subsequent visits while their information remains valid until their identification expires, requiring only quick authentication.
The citywide adoption of this technology forms part of Dubai’s broader strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which seeks to advance digital transformation initiatives in the hospitality and tourism industries.
Dubai deputy prime minister Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: “By leveraging cutting-edge solutions, we are not only enhancing the visitor journey, but also strategically positioning Dubai for sustained tourism growth.
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By GlobalData“Aligning perfectly with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, the rollout of this technology is a testament to our vision for a smart, seamless, and secure urban environment and reflects our commitment to further consolidating Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for business and leisure.”
Dubai department of economy and tourism director general Helal Saeed Almarri added: “Furthermore, it showcases the transformative power of collaboration across the public and private sectors in Dubai, delivering benefits to both stakeholders and visitors.”
The contactless check-in capability is currently available for immediate integration into existing hotel applications and web platforms.
Authorities indicate that it may also be extended to other sectors such as car rentals, aiming to streamline travel experiences within the city.
Recent data shows that Dubai hosted 15.70 million international overnight visitors during the first ten months of 2025, representing a 5% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.
The hospitality sector in the city currently includes 820 hotels and hotel apartments, contributing significantly to its status as an international business and leisure destination.
