Emirates has begun rolling out a suite of enhancements at Dubai International Airport and onboard to better support travellers with varying needs. The upgrades span check-in, passenger flow, in-flight features and sensory aids. For Dubai residents and professionals who fly often, these changes mean a smoother, more dignified journey.
Smarter check-in: responsive kiosks and adaptive tunnels
At Terminal 3, Emirates has upgraded its facial recognition Smart Tunnel system. We have now repositioned the cameras to better suit wheelchair users and children, enabling smoother clearance without manual intervention.
Simultaneously, the airline’s self-service check-in kiosks have been made more accessible. They now include text-to-speech prompts, braille labels, adjustable heights, headphone jacks, and improved touchscreen usability. These tweaks allow passengers to navigate check-in independently, regardless of mobility or sensory needs.
Plan via the Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub
Complementing on-ground improvements, Emirates has launched a dedicated Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub. Through this online portal, travellers can plan each step: from mobility assistance to sensory accommodations. The interface is designed for clarity and ease of use, helping those who want to avoid surprises before they arrive at the airport.
Onboard innovations: sensory kits and stability enhancements
Starting 1 November 2025, every cabin class will provide sensory products and fidget toys. Passengers can request items such as tactile aircraft stress relievers, fidget tubes or rubber poppers. These tools aim to regulate overstimulation for neurodivergent or anxious flyers.
In business class, Emirates is introducing a mattress hood—a fitted-sheet-style cover that secures the mattress more firmly to the seat. This ensures mobility-impaired travellers remain comfortably in position throughout sleep periods.
Entertainment reimagined for all passengers
The airline’s ICE in-flight entertainment system has been redesigned for better accessibility. The updated interface offers audio cues, voice feedback, gesture support, and native access to audio description for movies. Visually impaired travellers can now explore entertainment options independently.
for Dubai travellers
For UAE residents who fly frequently—whether for business or leisure—these upgrades offer practical benefits, including reduced waiting times, greater dignity, and fewer logistical hurdles. Moreover, Emirates’ changes reflect Dubai’s broader vision to make DXB and DWC among the world’s most inclusive airports in the next decade.
By integrating sensitivity, technology and planning, Emirates is not just improving operations — it’s reshaping how we think about access in aviation.
These strides make Emirates one of the few global airlines pushing inclusivity beyond token gestures. As these upgrades go live, travellers in and out of Dubai will begin to experience a gentler, more autonomous journey—one built for the full spectrum of ability.
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