Dubai Airports and CDA Forge Partnership to Enhance Accessibility in Air Travel

Shahba Mayyeri -

In a groundbreaking initiative to foster inclusivity in air travel, Dubai Airports, the operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Community Development Authority (CDA) at the AccessAbilities Expo.

This collaboration aims to improve services for travellers with visible and hidden disabilities, setting new standards for accessibility in the aviation sector.

The MoU was signed by Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports, and Miatha Al Shamsi, CEO of the Community Empowerment Sector at CDA, in the presence of Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of CDA, along with senior representatives from both organizations and members of the aviation community attending the Expo.

Through this partnership, Dubai Airports and CDA will work together to identify and address critical needs, leveraging CDA’s expertise to implement effective solutions. Al Hai highlighted the importance of the collaboration, stating,

“Partnering with the Community Development Authority is vital to our mission of making our airports more inclusive. Their insights will help us meet specific needs, setting a new benchmark for how airports can support all passengers.”

The agreement includes adopting CDA's recommendations to enhance services, such as integrating the Sanad communication platform, which connects individuals with hearing disabilities to sign language specialists. Additionally, the MoU promotes the use of the Sanad Smart Card, offering tailored privileges and services for people with disabilities.

Dubai Airports has already initiated several programs to support travellers with disabilities, including the Sunflower Lanyard programme, which discreetly identifies guests with hidden disabilities, allowing them access to priority lanes. With these efforts, Dubai aims to create a welcoming environment for all travellers, ensuring air travel is accessible and dignified for everyone.

News Source: Emirates News Agency