Tourism authorities in the UAE have directed hotel establishments to extend the stay of guests who were unable to leave the country as a result of the suspension, postponement or delay of flights due to the current exceptional circumstances.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, revealed that the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has asked hotel establishments in the emirate to extend the stay of guests unable to travel, bearing the full cost of the extension period, according to a post on the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism also directed hotels to extend the stay of guests who were unable to leave the country due to the disruption affecting flights, to ensure visitors' comfort and the continuity of services provided to them.
Al Marri noted that the UAE tourism sector continues to operate normally, with the country currently home to 1,260 hotels as well as more than 40,000 companies working in various tourism activities.
He added that hotel occupancy rates are proceeding normally, as hotels, resorts, tourist and cultural attractions and shopping centers continue to receive visitors and provide their services in line with approved regulatory frameworks and safety and quality standards.
He stressed that the relevant government bodies, including the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and local tourism departments, are working in coordination with hotel establishments and travel companies to ensure the safety of visitors and hotel guests and to provide tourism services of the highest quality.
In the same context, Al Marri noted that the General Civil Aviation Authority continues to coordinate with partners to monitor and continuously assess developments, enabling planning for the gradual and safe return of air traffic.
Al Marri asked travelers whose flights are affected not to go to airports before being contacted by airlines, to avoid congestion and ensure the smooth flow of passengers, stressing the importance of following information from official sources and avoiding rumors.
To view the post on the Emirates News Agency website, click here.
