Emirates Leads in Autism-Friendly Travel with Certified Check-In Facilities

In a significant stride towards making travel more inclusive, Emirates has earned the prestigious Certified Autism Center™ designation for all its check-in facilities in Dubai, marking a milestone ahead of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. This certification, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), encompasses Emirates' facilities including the City Check-in & Travel Store in DIFC, Emirates Cruise Check-In at Port Rashid and Dubai Harbour, Emirates City Check-In Ajman, and the dedicated hub in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

The certification highlights Emirates' commitment to accessible travel, ensuring that the airline's facilities in Dubai are now better equipped to serve neurodiverse customers and their families. This development is part of a broader effort to make Dubai a more inclusive destination, with Dubai International Airport also recognized as the first international airport to achieve this designation.

To secure the certification, Emirates staff underwent specialized training on autism and sensory awareness, enabling them to meet the needs of autistic travelers more effectively. The training covered understanding sensory sensitivities and how to provide a supportive and comfortable travel experience. Additionally, comprehensive audits of sensory inputs at the check-in areas were conducted to create sensory guides, helping travelers make informed decisions about their environment.

This collaboration among Emirates, the Department of Economy and Tourism, and Dubai Airports, along with other governmental entities, underscores Dubai's commitment to becoming a leading destination for travelers with diverse needs, fostering a more inclusive and accessible travel environment.