Dubai has officially been recognized as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere.
This is a milestone that reflects the emirate’s continuous efforts to make tourism offerings accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for all residents and visitors.
This achievement aligns with the core priorities of Dubai Economic Agenda “D33,” which emphasizes talent development, social inclusivity, and quality of life.
It also coincides with the UAE’s “Year of Community” that aims to strengthen social bonds and create inclusive spaces that foster values of cooperation, belonging, and shared experiences.
Many Initiatives Contributed to Make Dubai A Certified Autism Destination
Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) played a key role in achieving this global certification.
Various stakeholders and partners introduced initiatives to enhance accessibility across experiences.
Including aviation, hotels, attractions, and transportation systems.
Key initiatives included comprehensive workforce training programs and visitor support services at tourist sites.
As well as the provision of sensory guides and hidden disability identifiers to ensure a seamless and inclusive experience for all.
All certified sites underwent field reviews and received custom sensory guides developed by IBCCES as part of the certification process.
The efforts also involved a collaboration between DET and IBCCES to deliver comprehensive autism and sensory awareness training for all visitor-facing staff.
Inclusive Experiences for People of Determination
The “Dubai Way” e-learning platform was developed by Dubai College of Tourism (under DET).
It played a pivotal role in this achievement by equipping trainees with the skills and knowledge needed to offer inclusive experiences to people of determination.
The college continues to offer its “Inclusive Service” program through Dubai Way.
Training modules feature real-life stories, interactive sessions, and videos highlighting best practices for daily interaction with visitors.
In just two years, Dubai has made remarkable progress, including:
- Training over 70,000 individuals on autism and sensory awareness
- Onboarding more than 300 hotels for certification to provide autism-friendly stays
- Over 15 attractions have received accreditation from IBCCES
Accessible Tourism
Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, emphasized that Dubai’s designation as a Certified Autism Destination is a significant milestone in the city’s accessible tourism efforts.
He highlighted that this reflects a shared commitment to developing infrastructure, enhancing skills, and improving services to meet diverse needs.
He also acknowledged the vital support from partners, including IBCCES, the aviation sector, hotels, and attractions.
Noting that Dubai continues its work to become the world’s best city to live, work, and visit.
Airport and Airline Achievements in Autism Certification
Myron Pincomb, Chairman and CEO of IBCCES, praised Dubai’s progress in raising accessibility standards.
As this milestone ensures that visitors with autism and sensory needs can confidently explore the city.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) became the world’s first airport to receive the Certified Autism Center designation in December 2023.
Over 45,000 airport community members, including strategic partners, underwent specialized training on supporting travelers with hidden disabilities like autism and sensory challenges.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, expressed pride in contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming a Certified Autism Destination.
He stated that as the gateway to the city for millions, they are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Reflecting Dubai’s human-centered approach to travel.
Emirates Airlines has also been recognized as the world’s first Certified Autism Airline.
This was after the training of over 30,000 airport and cabin crew staff to better support travelers with autism.
Expo City Dubai: A Committed and Certified Autism Destination
Expo City Dubai has set an example by earning its Certified Autism Center designation in December 2024.
Following intensive training programs for frontline staff.
Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai, highlighted that this achievement reflects the city’s people-centric strategy.
As well as its commitment to creating inclusive environments for residents, workers, and visitors.
Dubai Holding Contributions
Dubai Holding Entertainment operates several major attractions, also played a crucial role.
Locations such as Dubai Motiongate and The Green Planet have earned Certified Autism Center designations.
With plans for more destinations to follow.
Al Anood Al Hashmi, Vice President of Corporate Culture and Sustainability at Dubai Holding Entertainment, expressed pride in supporting Dubai’s leadership as a welcoming city for travelers with autism.
All certified destinations are listed on the free “IBCCES Accessibility App.”
This app provides real-time guidance for travelers about autism-friendly locations and sensory-friendly spaces, offering personalized recommendations.
