Dubai’s beloved airline, Emirates, is about to make history by becoming the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, making air travel more inclusive for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. In collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Emirates is training over 30,000 staff members to provide a smooth and comfortable travel experience for all passengers! Join me as we explore how Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s most accessible destination is unfolding right before our eyes!
A Groundbreaking Step For Accessible Travel
Air travel can be overwhelming for individuals on the autism spectrum due to sensory challenges. A survey by AutismTravel.com found that 78% of families avoid travel, while 94% would travel more if airline staff were trained in autism awareness. Emirates’ commitment to inclusivity will not only enhance the flying experience for individuals with autism but also build confidence in travelers and their families, making international travel more accessible for everyone. After all, we all deserve to feel safe and supported while traveling.
What Does Autism Certification Mean?
Emirates collaborated closely with IBCCES to create a thorough plan that includes industry surveys, expert feedback, and audits of their services. The new standards cover every part of the journey—from check-in to in-flight services. By integrating the real experiences of individuals with autism and their families, Emirates is setting the stage for a model of inclusive travel that other airlines can follow.
Training Over 30,000 Staff
As part of the certification, Emirates’ staff will undergo specialized training focused on autism and sensory awareness. The program educates team members about the autism spectrum, the challenges travelers may face, and how to effectively meet their needs. This builds on previous efforts, including the “Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities” training completed by 23,000 Emirates staff in 2023.
New Services For Neurodiverse Travellers
Starting in 2025, Emirates will roll out enhanced services, including:
- Sensory Guides: Digital tools to help passengers plan their journey based on their sensory preferences.
- Sensory Aids: Items like fidget toys to help reduce stress and improve focus during flights.
These thoughtful additions are designed to make flying more comfortable for neurodiverse travelers and their companions.
A Brighter & More Incisive Future For Dubai
Emirates’ efforts are part of a broader initiative in Dubai, which aims to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. In April 2024, Emirates earned the Certified Autism Center™ designation for its Dubai check-in facilities. Dubai International Airport (DXB) also holds the title of the world’s first autism-certified airport. These milestones are the result of close collaboration with key organizations such as Dubai Airports, Dubai Police, and Dubai Customs.
