Emirates Receives Certified Autism Center Designation For Dubai Facilities

In a significant move to enhance the travel experience for neurodiverse passengers, Emirates has announced the achievement of the Certified Autism Center™ Designation for all its check-in facilities in Dubai. This milestone comes in time for World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, underscoring the airline's dedication to accessible travel. The certification encompasses Emirates City Check-in & Travel Store in DIFC, Emirates Cruise Check In at Port Rashid and Dubai Harbour, Emirates City Check-In Ajman, and the Emirates' dedicated hub in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) awarded the certification, recognizing Emirates' efforts to cater to neurodiverse customers. This certification signifies that the airline's facilities meet the criteria necessary for providing a supportive and comfortable travel experience for autistic travelers and those with sensory sensitivities.

To secure this designation, Emirates staff underwent specialized training focused on autism and sensory awareness. This education aimed to equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to better support autistic travelers and their families. Additionally, comprehensive audits of facilities were conducted to assess sensory inputs like sound levels, lighting, and potential triggers in public areas. These audits were instrumental in developing sensory guides that help travelers make informed decisions about their environment, enhancing their travel experience.

This accomplishment builds on the recognition of Dubai International Airport as the first international airport to earn the IBCCES designation. It aligns with the Department of Economy and Tourism's (DET) vision of positioning Dubai as the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Middle East, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.

Emirates' City Check-In facilities across Dubai offer a streamlined pre-airport experience. These facilities allow customers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight, drop off luggage, and select from various check-in options, including agent-assisted, robot-assisted, and self-service kiosks. This initiative aims to provide a more relaxed and stress-free travel experience for all Emirates customers.

Mohammed H. Mattar, Emirates DSVP Airport Services, expressed the airline's commitment to inclusive travel. "As a global airline, we acknowledge the challenges faced by customers with autism and sensory sensitivities. Partnering with DET and IBCCES to certify our city check-in locations in the UAE is a key step in our mission to make travel accessible for everyone," Mattar stated.

Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman, praised Emirates for its dedication to exceptional service, highlighting the importance of making the check-in process more accommodating for people with sensory challenges. "Emirates is known worldwide for its exceptional guest service. This certification makes the check-in experience at Emirates' facilities more accommodating for people of determination, particularly those with sensory challenges," Pincomb remarked.

The collaboration between Emirates, the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Police, and Dubai Customs aims to make travel more inclusive and accessible for all, reflecting Dubai's commitment to welcoming travelers with diverse needs.

Furthermore, IBCCES has developed AutismTravel.com, a complimentary online resource. This platform offers families information on certified destinations and connects them with additional resources and support networks. Each listed destination has met the stringent requirements to be considered a Certified Autism Center™.

Emirates' achievement of the Certified Autism Center™ Designation represents a significant step forward in making travel more inclusive. It highlights the airline's commitment to providing a supportive experience for neurodiverse travelers and their families, ensuring Dubai remains a welcoming and accessible destination for all.