Dubai Airports Scales Up Autism-Inclusive Training, Setting Global Benchmark in Accessible Travel

Dubai Airports has significantly expanded its autism-inclusive training programme, now equipping 45,000 employees across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) to better support autistic and sensory-sensitive travellers.

This initiative reinforces Dubai’s broader vision of becoming a Certified Autism Destination (CAD).

DXB holds the distinction of being the world’s first international airport to receive the Certified Autism Centre (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), in addition to certification by the Dubai Autism Centre (DAC).

The enhanced training programme, which reflects a 36% increase in specialist training year-on-year, forms a key pillar of Dubai Airports' strategy to ensure an inclusive and supportive airport experience. Employees are trained in sensory awareness, effective communication, and anxiety-reduction techniques to create a smoother journey for neurodiverse travellers.

“True inclusion starts with people,”

said Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports.

“Our airports are Dubai’s gateways to the world. It’s our responsibility to ensure every guest feels welcomed, supported, and included.”

The IBCCES-accredited training spans a wide airport community, including partners like Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, Emirates, flydubai, dnata, and Dubai Taxi Company. Trained Guest Experience Ambassadors, identifiable by Sunflower pins, are stationed at key points across both airports to assist autistic guests and their families.

Supporting measures include priority lanes via the Sunflower Lanyard, the DXB Travel Planner for pre-journey preparation, sensory-friendly lounges, and autism-friendly routes throughout the terminals. During Autism Acceptance Month, blue-lit Smart Gates and terminal displays of sunflowers further demonstrate solidarity with the autism community.

Dubai Airports continues to set the standard for accessible travel, making inclusivity not just a commitment—but a cornerstone of the travel experience.

News Source: Emirates News Agency