UCSL GSTC Certification in the Middle East
For Hotels and Tour Operators
Empowering tourism businesses in their journey to sustainability excellence
We don't just certify – we co-create lasting change with partners we serve.
we are accredited for
3 global sustainable certification schemes
GSTC-Accredited certification bodies
1 of the first
are PhD-level experts with 10+ years in sustainability
90% of staff
fluent in Arabic & English
Local auditors
we work with
35+ countries
worldwide trusting us
100+ clients
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100+ clientsworldwide trusting us -
Local auditorsfluent in Arabic & English -
90% of staffare PhD-level experts with 10+ years in sustainability -
35+ countrieswe work with -
3 global sustainable certificationschemes we are accredited for - 1 of the firstGSTC-Accredited certification bodies
As one of the first GSTC-accredited Certification Bodies, UCSL United Certification Systems Ltd is at the forefront of sustainable tourism and a trusted partner for hotels and tour operators worldwide.
From global hospitality groups such as Mandarin Oriental, Ascott, Rotana, Rixos, and Radisson to small, locally rooted SMEs, we support businesses of every scale in aligning with GSTC Standards – the global benchmark for sustainability in tourism and hospitality.
From global hospitality groups such as Mandarin Oriental, Ascott, Rotana, Rixos, and Radisson to small, locally rooted SMEs, we support businesses of every scale in aligning with GSTC Standards – the global benchmark for sustainability in tourism and hospitality.
UCSL at ATM 2026
November 17
Madlina Puka Özgür is a UCSL Representative and GSTC Lead Auditor working across the MENA region and the Balkans. During Arabian Travel Market, she will be available to meet with hotels, tour operators, MICE and events organizations, and industry partners to discuss their sustainability goals, share insights into the pathway to GSTC certification, and answer questions about the certification process.
Trusted Globally
Advancing credible sustainability across hospitality, tourism, and MICE
From our role as a strategic partner to the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to supporting some of the region’s leading hospitality brands on their path toward GSTC certification, we help organizations turn sustainability commitments into credible, internationally acknowledged progress.
From our role as a strategic partner to the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to supporting some of the region’s leading hospitality brands on their path toward GSTC certification, we help organizations turn sustainability commitments into credible, internationally acknowledged progress.
Certification Process with UCSL
2-day onsite assessment against the GSTC Standard
Initial Audit
award of a GSTC Certificate valid for 3 years
Certification Issuance
expert-led gap analysis to strengthen your audit readiness
Pre-Assessment (optional)
alignment on scope & terms, formalization of the partnership
Application & Contract Signing
structured internal preparation supported by the UCSL Toolkit
Self-Assessment
Timeline: 2-6 months, depending on your readiness and regional considerations.
From day one after signing the contract, we work closely with you as your partner in the certification journey. Our team provides hands-on guidance on the process at every stage, helping you navigate requirements, address gaps, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Our team can advise which commercial structure is most suitable for your business.
is based on your certification scope.
Preferential Conditions Available For:
- Members of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
- Corporate groups and multi-property portfolios
Pricing
Take advantage of our current 20% off offer!
Why GSTC Certification is the Premier Choice for Middle East’s Tourism Businesses
The GSTC framework gives your business the structure it needs to:
- Say sustainability influences their booking decisions (Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report, 2025)
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Drive bookingsMajor OTAs, like Booking.com and Trip.com, prominently feature GSTC-certified hotels and tour operators, reflecting a clear market preference for verified sustainability standards - Hotels with strong sustainability strategies can reduce costs by up to 30% (Sustainable Hospitality Alliance research)
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Unlock B2B opportunitiesLeading OTAs in the Middle East, including Almosafer, Rehlat, and Musafir.com, connect hotels and tour operators with key regional and international markets, creating new channels for visibility and commercial partnerships. -
Align with Thailand’s national sustainable tourism strategyStay ahead of evolving expectations and position your business in line with country’s long-term tourism priorities -
Strengthen Investment Readiness and Regulatory ConfidenceDemonstrate proactive alignment with evolving legal and sustainability requirements, signalling credibility and long-term readiness to banks, investors, and development partners.
Sustainability is a journey.
GSTC Certification is the best compass for navigating sustainability with clarity and purpose.
UCSL is on the ground in the Middle East to guide you every step of the way.
GSTC Certification is the best compass for navigating sustainability with clarity and purpose.
UCSL is on the ground in the Middle East to guide you every step of the way.
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