Selecting the right RFID keycard for your hotel begins with understanding your lock system. Different lock manufacturers support different chip types, frequencies, and security protocols. An incompatible keycard simply will not work — no matter how beautiful the print. This guide covers the major lock systems found in Saudi Arabian hotels and the keycard specifications they require.
Major Lock System Families
ASSA ABLOY (VingCard / Vostio): The world's largest lock manufacturer and the most common system in luxury hotels globally. VingCard systems typically support MIFARE Classic 1K/4K and MIFARE DESFire EV2/EV3. Newer Vostio platform locks also support mobile key via Bluetooth and NFC.
Dormakaba (Saflok / Kaba / ILCO): Widely deployed across mid-range and upscale properties. Saflok systems traditionally used magnetic stripe but have transitioned to RFID, supporting MIFARE Classic and, in newer models, DESFire. Kaba and ILCO systems support similar chip families.
SALTO Systems: Popular in European hotel chains and gaining market share in the Middle East. SALTO's JustIN Mobile platform supports MIFARE Classic, DESFire, and BLE mobile key. Their online and standalone lock architectures offer flexibility for different property sizes.
Onity (Allegion): Common in budget and mid-range hotel segments. Onity locks support MIFARE Classic and, in current-generation products, DESFire technology.
Chip Type Compatibility Matrix
While most modern lock systems accept MIFARE Classic 1K as a minimum baseline, the trend is toward DESFire EV2/EV3 as the preferred chip for new installations. When ordering keycards, always confirm three parameters with your lock vendor: chip type, memory size, and security protocol (Crypto-1 for Classic, AES for DESFire).
Practical Advice for Saudi Hotels
Before placing a keycard order, we recommend sending a sample blank card to your lock technician for encoding and testing. Most suppliers, including ourselves, provide compatibility sample packs at no charge. This simple step prevents costly bulk orders of incompatible cards and ensures a smooth deployment.
