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In a first in the region, Abu Dhabi has announced the launch of a safe and clean certification programme, aiming at uplifting and standardising the required hygiene levels in the tourism sector. By Sushmita Srivastav
Ever since the pandemic has left the entire world grasping at straws, different regions have started coming up with measures and rules to ensure that the safety and sanitary levels are being maintained. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), too, has announced the inception of a new safe and clean certification programme. A first of its kind in the region, the programme will keep an account of whether all businesses and organisations in the tourism sector are keeping up with the standardised hygiene levels.
As hotels, malls, and other attractions in the UAE‘s capital prepare to cautiously welcome back guests, the authority is aiming at safeguarding their health and well-being by offering these certifications. “Our priority is to ensure that our residents and visitors feel safe and comfortable in Abu Dhabi”, said HE Ali Hassan Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Tourism and Marketing, DCT Abu Dhabi. “As hygiene and cleanliness have risen to become vital factors considered by all individuals today, we believe that it is imperative for all institutions and businesses to elevate and then maintain hygiene standards. As the leaders in tourism, our role is to pave the way for industry players and set standards that suit our consumers. Through this tourism board led programme, we hope to boost the confidence of consumers when considering Abu Dhabi as a tourism destination. Our dedicated team has been working closely with different stakeholders to ensure that this programme considers all elements of health and safety and we encourage all hotels and industry partners to attain the certificate,” he added.
The latest initiative also comes as part of the organisation’s response to the change in consumer trends, behaviours, and expectations as a result of COVID-19. The certification programme has been developed in partnership with leading world developers and will be rolled out in phases. Phase one will be dedicated to hotels in Abu Dhabi, with other tourist attractions and businesses to follow. DCT Abu Dhabi has strongly urged interested organisations to follow the department’s official website and social media channels for all updates.
Earlier in March, UAE had launched the National Disinfection Programme as part of the preventive and precautionary measures taken by the country to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. The initiative, which included health, hygiene, and safety regulations along with other supportive schemes in terms of economic impact, was praised globally.
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