Abu Dhabi unveils world's first desert camps classification system
2011-01-05 13:39:54
WAM Abu Dhabi, Jan 5th, 2011 (WAM) -- Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has launched a new, world-first mandatory classification system for desert camps - one of the emirate's fastest-growing leisure tourism sub-sectors.
Initially, a six-by-six kilometer site in the emirate's Al Khatem district, close to its heritage heartland of Al Ain, will centralise Abu Dhabi's existing desert camps operators, with five additional, dedicated sites within the emirate - all specifically chosen by ADTA, due to come online for future use by new operators in coming months.
The tailored classification system conceived after extensive consultation with industry stakeholders and ADTA's own Environmental Health and Safety Management System department, which provided assessment criteria that will be split into two categories: day camps and those offering overnight stays. The Al Khatem plot can facilitate operators in both categories.
"These new regulations will ensure that tourists get a positive experience of Abu Dhabi and all the touch points that come with it covers transport to the camp, interaction with locals, the quality of the food and the activities on offer. We will also make it mandatory for each camp to have an inspector who is first-aid trained to maintain standards", said Nasser Al Reyami, Tourism Standards Director, ADTA.
WAM/GA WAM/Trainee/AM
