The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has directed hotel establishments across the emirate to extend the stay of guests affected by ongoing travel restrictions.
In a circular dated February 28, 2026, and addressed to hotel general managers, the department cited Law No. 8 of 2018 establishing DCT Abu Dhabi and its mandate to develop the tourism industry in the emirate.
The directive follows the current circumstances that have left some hotel guests unable to depart despite reaching their scheduled check-out dates. According to the statement, affected guests are unable to travel for reasons beyond their control.
DCT Abu Dhabi has therefore requested hotels to extend the stay of such guests until they are able to leave the country.
The department assured hotel operators that the cost of the extended stay will be covered by DCT Abu Dhabi. Hotels have been instructed to submit all related invoices to the Business Continuity Management team via the official email provided in the circular.
For further inquiries, hotel managers were advised to contact the Business Continuity Team through the dedicated telephone line indicated in the statement.
The move is aimed at ensuring the welfare and safety of visitors while maintaining stability in the emirate’s tourism and hospitality sector during the ongoing travel disruptions.
