Abu Dhabi has confirmed that more than 100 hotels in the emirate are now designated as safe places to stay.
The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi announced on Thursday, July 23 that 146 hotels in the city are "Go Safe" certified, including Emirates Palace and the St Regis Abu Dhabi.
This is set to boost confidence among anyone booking a staycation in an Abu Dhabi hotel. The first hotel to get the certification was W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island. The Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island and Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana, Abu Dhabi are also certified.
The Go Safe initiative is endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Government and guarantees that a hotel is meeting the required hygiene standards to minimise the spread of Covid-19.
In order to be certified, hotels must carry out self-assessments as per guidelines issued by DCT Abu Dhabi. These are then verified through site inspections by Abu Dhabi authorities. Destinations that meet the requirements will then receive the certification.
Hotels have been the first focus for the certification programme, but similar guidelines have been developed with a focus on cultural sites, public beaches and restaurants.
Some of the attractions that have already passed inspections and are certified include Qasr al Hosn, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Bait Al Gahwa, House of Artisans and the Cultural Foundation.
Malls, restaurants, amusement parks and other facilities that reopen will also be able to apply for the certification.
A statement from DCT - Abu Dhabi added the aim was to have every hotel, attraction and public venue in the capital Go Safe-certified by the end of August.
The latest statistics from DCT - Abu Dhabi show that hotels in the UAE capital are busier this July than they were at the same time last year. That was before restrictions were eased, allowing swimming pools to open at hotels in Abu Dhabi.
The National has reached out for a full list of hotels certified in the capital.
