Dubai Airports has significantly expanded its autism training programme, reaching 45,000 employees across Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The move is part of a broader vision to transform Dubai into a Certified Autism Destination™, making the travel experience smoother and more inclusive for passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities.
This large-scale initiative is one of the most ambitious of its kind in the aviation sector and marks a major milestone in the city’s efforts to enhance accessibility and inclusion for all travelers.
A Landmark Step Toward Accessibility
The training rollout aims to empower frontline staff, service partners, and airport stakeholders with the tools they need to better understand and respond to the unique needs of autistic individuals. The content focuses on identifying signs of sensory sensitivity, offering appropriate support, and ensuring passengers feel safe and understood throughout their airport journey.
By equipping its workforce with this knowledge, Dubai is not just improving service standards—it is sending a clear message that inclusion is at the heart of its travel and tourism strategy.
What the Training Covers
The autism awareness training programme has been designed in collaboration with global accessibility experts to ensure it meets international standards. The sessions include guidance on communication techniques, understanding behavior linked to sensory overload, and best practices for managing travel scenarios involving autistic passengers.
The approach prioritizes empathy, patience, and attentiveness—qualities that can make a world of difference for travelers who might find airport environments overwhelming.
Supportive Facilities Already in Place
Dubai Airports has already taken several steps to create a more supportive environment for neurodiverse travelers, with more enhancements underway. Key facilities currently available include:
- A calm and quiet Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 3 for travelers with hidden disabilities.
- Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard, allowing passengers to discreetly identify themselves as needing additional support.
- Visual storyboards and planners, which guide passengers step-by-step through the airport journey in an easy-to-understand format.
These services reflect the city’s commitment to not just acknowledging hidden disabilities, but actively supporting those who live with them.
Collaboration with Local and Global Organizations
To ensure its efforts remain effective and meaningful, Dubai Airports has been working closely with experts in the field, including autism specialists and local authorities. These collaborations help shape policies and training methods that are both culturally appropriate and aligned with global best practices.
The program also supports Dubai’s wider ambition to be recognized as a leading inclusive destination—across airports, hotels, attractions, and public services.
Aligning with Dubai’s Future Vision
Dubai’s focus on inclusive travel aligns with broader national initiatives, including the UAE’s commitment to becoming one of the most disability-friendly countries in the world. It also supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to improve the quality of life for all residents and visitors.
By prioritizing accessibility in one of the busiest international travel hubs, Dubai is laying the foundation for long-term change not just in tourism, but across public and private sectors.
What It Means for Travelers
For families and individuals traveling with autism, knowing that staff are trained and ready to provide support can ease much of the stress that comes with navigating crowded and complex airport spaces. From check-in to boarding, travelers can now expect a more compassionate, informed, and streamlined experience.
This initiative doesn’t just benefit autistic travelers—it also helps raise awareness and foster greater empathy among airport staff, passengers, and the community at large.
Looking Ahead
With more than 45,000 employees now trained, Dubai Airports is setting a new global standard for accessibility in aviation. The next steps will likely include feedback collection, ongoing training refreshers, and further expansion of inclusive facilities across both airports.
As the city moves closer to achieving Certified Autism Destination status, it sets an example for other international hubs to follow.
Dubai’s efforts are more than just symbolic—they represent a tangible shift toward creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and welcome. The airport’s leadership in autism awareness training sends a powerful message that inclusion is not an option—it’s a necessity.
