Dubai Airports Completes Installation Of Over 520 Hearing Loops To Enhance Accessibility At DXB

Dubai Airports has successfully installed over 520 Hearing Loops at Dubai International (DXB), making it the largest deployment of this technology globally. This initiative aims to improve accessibility for travellers with hearing impairments, including those using hearing aids or cochlear implants, and aligns with DXB’s goal to be the most inclusive airport worldwide.

The Hearing Loops have been strategically placed at vital points such as check-in counters, immigration desks, boarding gates, and information desks across all three terminals. Users can connect effortlessly by activating the ‘T’ (telecoil) setting on their devices without needing additional equipment or pairing.

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, stated: "At Dubai Airports, we are committed to ensuring that every guest, regardless of ability, can navigate our terminals with ease, dignity, and confidence. The successful installation of over 520 Hearing Loops across DXB is a testament to the collaborative spirit of our oneDXB airport community, including all our strategic partners and airlines, whose unified effort is making our shared vision of a more seamless and accessible travel experience a reality for all."

This project was executed in collaboration with partners from the oneDXB community. Key collaborators included Emirates, flydubai, Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, dnata, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Dubai Taxi Company, and Dubai Duty Free.

The World Health Organisation estimates that over 1.5 billion people globally experience some degree of hearing loss. This figure is expected to increase to 2.5 billion by 2050. As such, accessible communication systems are becoming crucial in transport hubs worldwide.

Dubai Airports' long-term strategy focuses on enhancing accessibility through infrastructure improvements and employee training. This approach ensures that guests feel welcome and understood throughout their journey at DXB.

Seamless Implementation

The installation adhered to Dubai’s Universal Design Code which mandates inclusive access in public spaces and transport infrastructure. The process was completed with minimal disruption to airport operations. Frontline employees received specialised training to support guests with determination effectively.

This rollout is part of a broader strategy aimed at improving access across DXB through practical solutions centred on guest needs. It ensures every traveller feels accommodated from arrival at the kerbside to departure at the gate.

With inputs from WAM