Dubai Airports has taken a significant step toward inclusivity by training 45,000 employees in autism awareness and support practices. The initiative spans the entire airport community—including partners, service providers, and stakeholders—at both Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
This large-scale training expansion reflects Dubai’s broader goal of becoming a Certified Autism Destination (CAD), and reinforces DXB’s status as the first international airport globally to earn the Certified Autism Centre (CAC) title. This designation was granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and supported by local recognition from the Dubai Autism Centre (DAC).
The training program forms part of a comprehensive inclusion strategy designed to enhance the airport experience for travelers with unique needs. By increasing training participation by 36% compared to the previous year, Dubai Airports is working to embed a culture of empathy and proactive support throughout its operations.
“True inclusion starts with our people,” said Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports. “Our airports are not just transit hubs—they represent Dubai to the world. It’s our duty to ensure that every traveler feels welcomed and supported, no matter their individual circumstances.”
The IBCCES-accredited training has been adopted by frontline staff from a range of key organizations operating at DXB and DWC. These include Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai Customs, dnata, Dubai Duty Free, the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, Dubai Taxi Company, Emirates, flydubai, and other airport concessionaires and airline partners.
The program equips staff with skills in sensory awareness, effective communication, and anxiety-reduction techniques to help them interact more confidently and compassionately with neurodiverse passengers.
Dedicated Guest Experience Ambassadors—easily recognized by their sunflower pins—are stationed at crucial points across both airports to assist autistic travelers and their families with informed, personalized support.
As part of Autism Acceptance Month, the Smart Gates at DXB have been lit in blue, symbolizing solidarity with the global autism community. Additionally, the sunflower symbol, internationally recognized as a sign of hidden disabilities, has been prominently displayed across terminals to boost awareness.
To further assist neurodiverse passengers, Dubai Airports offers a number of tailored services. These include:
- The DXB Travel Planner, a digital visual guide for journey preparation
- Sunflower Lanyards, allowing access to priority lanes and autism-friendly routes through check-in, security, and boarding
- Dedicated taxis, wheelchair support, and complimentary two-hour parking
- The Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2, a calm, sensory-friendly waiting space
All of these efforts reflect Dubai Airports’ firm commitment to making air travel a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive experience for all.
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