This week marked a significant gathering in Dubai’s hospitality scene as the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and its Dubai chapter came together to host a pivotal event at the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah on September 23. Drawing an impressive attendance of 87 hospitality leaders representing Dubai’s top hotel brands, the event underscored HFTP’s unwavering dedication to fostering knowledge-sharing and professional growth within the hospitality finance and technology community.
The day kicked off with a vibrant networking breakfast, setting the stage for meaningful connections and collaboration among attendees. Following this, the spotlight was on an in-depth presentation about the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI) 12th Revised Edition. This insightful session was led by Dr. Arlene Ramirez, Senior Vice President of Learning for HFTP and a past HFTP Global President, whose expertise offered attendees a comprehensive view of the latest standards impacting hospitality accounting and reporting.
Adding to the event’s prominence, HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe welcomed participants and introduced the program. The Dubai chapter was well-represented by its leadership team, including President Hesham Elenna, Vice President Rohit Garg, and board members Rizwan Mohammad, Madina Osman, and Mahmoud Kamal, all of whom contributed to the dynamic atmosphere of the gathering.
Dr. Ramirez’s presentation highlighted critical updates in the 12th Revised Edition of USALI, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Key changes discussed included the introduction of new sustainability and brand cost categories, updated departmental schedules and line items, significant lease accounting adjustments, and the real-world implications these revisions will have on financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance within the hospitality sector. These updates are designed to help hotels better align with evolving industry standards and regulatory demands.
Importantly, the event was offered free of charge, reflecting HFTP’s commitment to ensuring that these vital changes in hospitality accounting practices are accessible to a broad audience. By doing so, HFTP supports the sector in staying informed and prepared for upcoming challenges and opportunities.
For those unfamiliar, Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) is a nonprofit association established in 1952 that serves the finance and technology arms of the hospitality industry globally. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, with an office in the EU, HFTP offers a wealth of resources including expert networks, educational programs, career development opportunities, research, leadership initiatives, and renowned conferences. Among these is HITEC, the world’s largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand.
Beyond events, HFTP manages key hospitality industry resources and platforms such as Pineapplesearch.com®, the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI), and publications like Hotel-Online and Hospitality Upgrade Magazine. Collectively, these offerings empower hospitality professionals to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry landscape.
For more information about HFTP and its programs, visit www.hftp.org or contact USALI at +1 (512) 249-5333.
