Dubai Achieves First Certified Autism Destination Status In Eastern Hemisphere For Inclusive Tourism

Dubai has been recognised as the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere. This achievement highlights the city's dedication to making tourism more accessible and inclusive for everyone. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, focusing on talent development, social inclusion, and quality of life. It also supports the UAE Year of Community's goal to create inclusive spaces that foster collaboration and shared experiences.

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) awarded this certification. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) led the effort, collaborating with key stakeholders to enhance accessibility across aviation, hotels, attractions, and transportation. Initiatives included staff training programmes, visitor support enhancements, sensory guides, and hidden disability lanyards to ensure an inclusive experience.

DET partnered with IBCCES to provide autism and sensory awareness training for Dubai's tourist-facing workforce. Central to this effort is the ‘Dubai Way’ online training platform by Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of DET. This platform equips staff with skills to offer a more inclusive experience for People of Determination. The Inclusive Service programme further educates on catering to these individuals through real-life stories and interactive sessions.

In over two years, significant progress has been made in inclusivity. More than 70,000 people have received autism and sensory awareness training. Over 300 hotels are engaged in a training process to offer comfortable experiences for guests with autism. Additionally, more than 15 attractions, beaches, and parks have earned IBCCES certifications, reinforcing Dubai's commitment to accessibility.

Issam Kazim from Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing stated that this designation marks a pivotal moment in accessibility efforts. He emphasised the importance of developing infrastructure while enhancing skills across the city. Kazim highlighted that this recognition aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and UAE Year of Community priorities.

Myron Pincomb from IBCCES praised Dubai for setting new standards in accessible tourism. He noted that this achievement ensures all visitors can explore Dubai confidently. Paul Griffiths from Dubai Airports expressed pride in supporting Dubai’s journey towards becoming a Certified Autism Destination by creating an inclusive environment at airports.

Airlines and Attractions Join Efforts

Emirates has been working towards becoming the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, receiving certifications for check-in areas and training over 30,000 staff members. Adel Al Redha from Emirates highlighted their mission to make travel more inclusive by supporting autistic customers through various initiatives.

Expo City Dubai became a Certified Autism Center™ in December 2024 after extensive training for its team on supporting autistic visitors. Marjan Faraidooni from Expo City Dubai expressed pride in contributing to this city-wide effort by creating an inclusive culture at Expo City.

Entertainment Sector's Role

Dubai Holding Entertainment has several attractions certified as Autism Centers™, including Motiongate Dubai and The Green Planet. Alanood Al Hashemi from Dubai Holding Entertainment emphasised their commitment to making parks accessible for all visitors.

The IBCCES Accessibility App features all certified locations in Dubai, offering travellers real-time guidance on sensory-friendly spaces and recommendations. Further details on travel accessibility can be found at visitdubai.com/accessibility.

With inputs from WAM