Dubai, Abu Dhabi Directs Hotels To Extend Stays Of Stranded Guests Amid Tension In The Middle East

Due to the tensions in the Middle East, travellers from across the world are affected. We are especially talking about those who are currently in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Helping these people out, authorities in the two emirates have now directed hotels to extend the stays for guests who are unable to depart due to the current situation. Here’s all you need to know about this development relating to the hotel industry in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi Hotels Directed To Extend Their Stays

Authorities have directed Dubai and Abu Dhabi hotels to extend stays for guests who cannot depart due to exceptional circumstances. This move was taken with the aim of protecting international visitors who are affected by travel disruptions. Hotels have been directed to prioritise the guests’ welfare. They must also ensure that there is accommodation continuity and must not ask the travellers to vacate the room if they cannot leave the country, and must immediately cover extension costs.

What Is The Directive For Dubai?

Ordering flexible stay extensions, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism has issued a formal directive. They must allow the affected guests to extend their stays under the same terms, as per their original bookings. Not to mention, the department has also said that this measure is in line with the government directive of offering full support to international travellers during the situation.

Moreover, guests should not be required to vacate the room if they cannot pay the extension cost immediately. Hotel operators are also instructed to notify the department about such cases, offering details regarding the original booking duration, operational challenges encountered, and extension period.

What Is The Directive For Abu Dhabi?

As revealed by the Gulf News, Abu Dhabi has issued a parallel directive by confirming that the government will cover the accommodation cost for stranded guests. In a circular that was sent to the hotels by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the properties must extend the guest stays until they can leave. It mentioned that the cost of the extended stay will be covered by the DCT Abu Dhabi. This measure is a part of the government’s effort to maintain sustainability in the tourism sector while prioritising the welfare of international travellers.

With the move, travellers who are currently stranded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be able to breathe a sigh of relief.

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