No desks, no delays: Dubai unveils fully contactless hotel check-in system

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Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has announced the citywide introduction of a one-time contactless hotel guest check-in solution. The initiative marks a major advancement in guest convenience, safety, and hospitality innovation, enabling visitors to bypass traditional in-person check-in procedures once the system is implemented across hotels and holiday homes. It also represents a key milestone in delivering the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to reinforce Dubai’s standing as a premier global destination for business and leisure.

Developed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and supported by several independent providers, the new biometric and digital capability is now available for integration at hotels and holiday homes throughout the city. The technology equips hospitality operators with a streamlined tool that enhances operational efficiency while significantly elevating the guest experience. Its rollout aligns closely with Dubai’s commitment to advanced digital infrastructure, smart services, and future-ready mobility solutions that underpin the D33 agenda, a Dubai Media Office report said.

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The system allows guests to complete all check-in formalities from their mobile phones well before arriving at their hotel. By uploading required identification documents and biometric information once, visitors can fully automate the check-in process. Upon arrival, guests at participating properties can bypass traditional reception procedures entirely, beginning their stay without delay.

The securely stored data remains valid until the uploaded identification document expires. This enables returning visitors, who account for nearly a quarter of Dubai’s annual arrivals, to authenticate quickly through methods such as facial recognition. The convenience supports Dubai’s ambition to enhance loyalty among repeat travellers while reducing pressure on hotel operations during peak tourism periods.

Leadership vision for continued tourism growth

Enabling sustained growth, Sheikh Hamdan said: “Guided by the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, our city continues to lead the way in embracing innovation and creating unparalleled experiences. By leveraging cutting-edge solutions, we are not only enhancing the visitor journey, but also strategically positioning Dubai for sustained tourism growth. 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.”

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, added: “The introduction of this citywide one-time contactless check-in solution is a pivotal moment for Dubai’s hospitality industry and a clear demonstration of our progress towards achieving the goals of the D33 agenda. Furthermore, it showcases the transformative power of collaboration across the public and private sectors in Dubai, delivering benefits to both stakeholders and visitors. Guided by our city’s visionary leadership, we continue to pursue opportunities to facilitate the continued growth of the city’s tourism ecosystem and further elevate its vital contribution to the emirate’s economy.”

Expanding Smart Technology Across the Visitor Journey

Designed for efficient integration into existing hotel apps or websites, the system allows properties to adopt the solution with minimal transition challenges. The technology’s adaptability also creates opportunities to extend its use to other tourism-related services, including car rentals, ensuring that visitors encounter consistently streamlined processes across multiple touchpoints.

Its introduction complements Dubai’s growing suite of smart-city innovations. These include digital services deployed at airports, such as the smart tunnel at Dubai International Airport, which has reduced passport control processing times to mere seconds. Combined, these efforts reflect a broader strategy to deliver frictionless, technology-enabled travel experiences for millions of international visitors.

Dubai’s hospitality industry remains a significant pillar of its global appeal. With 820 hotels and hotel apartments offering internationally recognised service standards, the sector supports the emirate’s broader tourism ecosystem. The city welcomed 15.70 million international overnight visitors in the first ten months of 2025, a 5% increase year-on-year. Guests spent a total of 36.71 million room nights during this period, underscoring both the strength of demand and Dubai’s continued success in attracting travellers seeking high-quality service, efficiency, and convenience.

By introducing the one-time contactless check-in system, Dubai advances its long-term vision to deliver a seamlessly integrated hospitality landscape grounded in innovation, smart technology, and global competitiveness.