Abu Dhabi has implemented updated regulations for holiday homes, expanding the categories of individuals and organizations permitted to operate them, while also establishing stricter transparency requirements for listings on digital platforms.
These revised norms were presented during DCT Abu Dhabi's participation in the Arabian Travel Market 2026. They consolidate and clarify all stages of regulatory requirements for this sector, including compliance, licensing, operational obligations, inspections, and adherence to standards.
The goal of updating these rules is to support the growth of the holiday home sector while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and guest experience.
Who can manage holiday homes?
Under the revised rules, eligible operators may include private owners, co-owners, legal entities, tenants, and individuals authorized by the property owner, provided they meet the requirements set by DCT Abu Dhabi.
The expansion of selection criteria aims to provide greater clarity for those intending to participate in Abu Dhabi's growing holiday home market.
New requirement for online listings
The updated provisions also introduce increased transparency for holiday home listings on websites and digital platforms. It is now not possible to advertise a residential property on any platform without a valid DCT Abu Dhabi license, and the license number must be clearly stated on the property listing page.
This requirement is designed so that visitors can easily identify licensed properties and strengthen compliance across all online booking platforms. The revised guidelines ensure high standards of safety, quality, and hospitality in all holiday home properties in Abu Dhabi, and contribute to achieving the goals of the Tourism Strategy 2030 by diversifying accommodation options beyond traditional hotels.
Hamad Mohammed Sudain, Executive Director of DCT Abu Dhabi Support, noted: 'The holiday home sector is becoming an increasingly important part of Abu Dhabi's evolving tourism landscape, responding to changing traveler preferences and expanding the emirate's accommodation offerings. These updated rules strengthen the sector's governance system, enhance transparency, and encourage responsible market participation, while protecting the high standards of quality and hospitality that define Abu Dhabi as a destination.'
Residential homes constitute a growing part of the emirate's diverse housing stock. In 2025, the supply of holiday homes in Abu Dhabi increased by 77 percent compared to the previous year, adding over 2,000 suitable properties and concluding the year with 4,771 suitable units.
Guest flow grew by 77 percent, exceeding 335,000 people, driven by an 114% increase in domestic guests to 82,900 and a 68% rise in international visitors to 252,500. The average daily rate increased by 28% to AED 1,887.