Al Ain Hotel Upgrade Scheme Boosts Tourism Growth

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination, the Al Ain Region has introduced a comprehensive Hotel Refurbishment Scheme aimed at enhancing the quality of hospitality services and overall visitor experience.

The initiative, led by Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is designed to support hotel owners in upgrading their properties to meet and exceed global hospitality standards. The scheme offers a capital expenditure rebate of up to 12% on eligible investments, providing a significant incentive for refurbishment and modernization.

Additionally, hotel operators can benefit from an extra 5% premium rebate under specific conditions. These include transitioning from unbranded to branded hotels, achieving higher star ratings, or renovating heritage properties. The rebate amount may vary depending on the hotel’s classification. Importantly, all rebates will be disbursed after the successful completion of renovation projects.

Tourism Growth Drives Strategic Investment

The launch of this scheme comes amid strong growth in Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector. In 2025, Al Ain Region welcomed over 473,000 guests, reflecting a year-on-year increase of more than 9%. Key performance indicators also showed positive momentum, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) reaching AED 204—an increase of over 17%—and occupancy rates climbing to 66%, up by more than 9% compared to the previous year.

These encouraging figures highlight the growing demand for high-quality accommodation and reinforce the importance of continued investment in hospitality infrastructure.

Leadership Perspective

Commenting on the initiative, Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the cultural and strategic importance of the region: “Al Ain Region represents the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It is a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity and a vital part of our tourism ecosystem.”

He further noted that the scheme reflects a commitment to preserving the region’s heritage while upgrading its hospitality offerings to world-class standards. The initiative aims to create a vibrant and competitive tourism environment, attracting visitors seeking cultural, wellness, and adventure experiences enhanced by modern comforts.

Future Outlook

With strategic initiatives like the Hotel Refurbishment Scheme, Al Ain is set to strengthen its appeal as a unique destination where rich heritage seamlessly blends with modern hospitality. The move is expected to attract a broader range of tourists while supporting sustainable growth in Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.