April 29, 2025 | 05:36 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Dubai has officially been recognized as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Region, reflecting its commitment to making tourism more inclusive across all sectors, from flights and hotels to attractions and transportation.
This recognition is granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), a global leader in autism and sensory sensitivity training.
To earn this designation, Dubai implemented several key initiatives, including staff training, improved support services at major attractions, and the introduction of sensory guides and special lanyards for people with non-visible disabilities.
Each certified venue also underwent in-person evaluations and received tailored sensory guides from IBCCES.
DET collaborated with IBCCES to deliver autism and sensory sensitivity training to frontline tourism staff. One of the programs involved is 'Dubai Way', developed by the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), to equip hospitality workers with the skills to provide an inclusive environment for People of Determination—those with disabilities or special needs.
Additionally, DCT offers the Inclusive Service program, a self-paced training available via the Dubai Way online platform. It includes real-world examples, interactive content, and videos designed to help staff build empathy, understanding, and cultural awareness when interacting with diverse tourists.
Key institutions across the city have played a role in making Dubai more autism-friendly. Dubai International Airport (DXB), for instance, became the first international airport to be designated as a Certified Autism Center in December 2023.
“As the first and last impression of the city for millions of travellers, we embrace our responsibility to create a welcoming, accessible and inclusive environment for all,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.
Emirates Airline has also supported this initiative. Adel Al Redha, Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of Emirates, said the achievement lays a strong foundation for Dubai to be recognized as the first certified autism destination in the Eastern Hemisphere.
He emphasized the airline’s “social and professional responsibility” to make travel easier for passengers with autism.
In April 2024, Emirates earned the Certified Autism Center certification for its check-in facilities at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport. By 2025, the airline became the world’s first to be autism-certified, with more than 30,000 crew and airport staff trained to assist travelers with autism.
Support from other city destinations was also vital, including Expo City Dubai, which was designated as a Certified Autism Center in December 2024 after conducting extensive training for its teams on how to serve autistic guests and manage sensory needs.
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