The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has issued a circular to hotel directors regarding the extension of stay for guests who are unable to travel due to current circumstances. In the circular, obtained by 'Emirates Today', the department explained that the decision is based on Law No. 8 of 2018 concerning the establishment of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and its mandates to achieve the emirate's tourism development. The department called on hotels to extend the stay of guests whose departure date has arrived but are unable to leave for reasons beyond their control until they are able to depart. The department confirmed that the costs of the extension period will be covered by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. The Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai has also issued an important circular to hotel directors in Dubai regarding the extension of stay for guests affected by the cancellation, postponement, or delay of flights due to the current exceptional circumstances. In the circular, obtained by 'Emirates Today', the department explained that the step comes in line with the directives of the Dubai government aimed at providing all forms of necessary support and assistance to international visitors, urging hotels to cooperate to ensure the extension of stay for guests who are unable to depart due to these circumstances, in accordance with the original booking conditions. The department emphasized the importance of not evicting any guest under the current conditions if they are unable to pay for the extension of stay, stressing the need to inform it as soon as possible in case of such situations, providing information including the guest's original length of stay, the extension period, and any related challenges or notes.
