Ajman to extend ratings system to resorts

A classification standards system introduced by Ajman Tourism Development Department for hotels in the emirate last year is to be extended to resorts.

The second stage of the project will also see the classification standards for travel agencies and restaurants, as well as the transportation and car rental sectors.

A comprehensive survey will be immediately conducted with representatives of the five sectors, along with local and international benchmarking, said head of classification section Engy Mounir, adding that a mechanism would be followed to get the feedback from Ajman visitors.

The new standards will be developed following a review of current licensing and classification processes, with legislations, rules and regulations to be reviewed.

Field operations, interviews with stakeholders and surveys will also be part of the second stage of the project, at the end of which a report of recommendations will be submitted to decision-makers. The deadline for this will be the end of the third quarter of 2014.

In August, The Ajman Palace became the first hotel in the emirate to be awarded a five-star classification from the Ajman Tourism Development Department.