Dubai has officially become the first city in the Eastern
Hemisphere to be designated a Certified Autism Destination™, a milestone that
could significantly impact how families with autistic members and sensory needs
travel to the Middle East.
The designation, granted by the International Board of
Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), follows a city-wide
effort to train personnel and adapt services across Dubai’s tourism, aviation,
and hospitality sectors to better support people with autism.
More than 45,000 airport workers and 70,000 tourism
professionals have received specialized training.
The move is expected to enhance Dubai's appeal as an
accessible destination for global travelers, including families from Kenya and
across Africa seeking inclusive vacation options.
Over 300 hotels and
15 public attractions, including beaches and parks, have also undergone autism
certification.
“Dubai’s designation as a Certified Autism Destination is a
landmark moment,” said Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism
and Commerce Marketing.
“We recognize the
importance of ensuring that families and individuals from around the world can
experience the best of Dubai with comfort and confidence.”
Dubai International Airport (DXB) was the first
international airport to earn the Certified Autism Center™ title.
Emirates Airline,
headquartered in the city, has followed suit, becoming the world’s first Autism
Certified Airline™, with over 30,000 staff trained to support neurodiverse
passengers.
The certification means travelers will now have access to
sensory guides, hidden disability lanyards, and real-time support via the
IBCCES Accessibility App — tools designed to reduce travel anxiety and improve
experience.
Tourism industry stakeholders say the initiative is also
part of broader efforts by the UAE to increase social inclusion. “This
milestone reinforces our commitment to ensuring a seamless and supportive
travel experience for every guest,” said Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths.
The certification comes as Dubai seeks to boost its tourism
sector under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which includes goals tied to
quality of life and inclusive economic grow
