Dubai Airport hosts Autism drill
Dubai International Airport opened its terminals for a different kind of journey this week. A guided travel simulation helped children with autism spectrum disorder and their families navigate the airport experience with greater ease and confidence.
Organised under the UAE's Year of the Community and in partnership with Al Jalila Foundation's Ta'alouf Programme, the initiative gave young participants a real-time walkthrough of airport procedures from check-in to security screening and boarding gates. The goal was to reduce anxiety, build familiarity, and prepare families for future travel.
Support at every step
The event was facilitated by trained Guest Experience Ambassadors and supported by members of the oneDXB community, a network of airport stakeholders focused on passenger care.
Caregivers, volunteers, and frontline staff created a calm and structured setting that allowed children to explore the terminal environment on their own terms.
'The impact we can make when we work together is real,' said Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports. 'Accessibility is not only about infrastructure but how we respond to individual needs with empathy and care.'
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said the simulation supports national efforts to integrate people of determination into public life and make travel more inclusive. He said the initiative helps families travel with confidence and peace of mind.
From policy to practice
The Ta'alouf Programme, now in its 13th year, equips families and educators with tools to support children with autism, Down syndrome, and other developmental conditions. At the airport, children were able to ask questions, familiarise themselves with the environment, and take their time adapting to each stage of the journey.
The simulation reflects Dubai Airports' broader strategy to make travel more inclusive through its 'We All Meet the World Differently' campaign, which emphasises support for both visible and invisible disabilities. DXB was the first international airport to receive the Certified Autism Center designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
Inclusive travel on the rise
Dubai Airports has introduced several accessibility initiatives in recent years including staff training, calm spaces, and wayfinding support for people of determination. The travel simulation is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that families with neurodivergent children feel prepared and supported throughout their travel journey.
With the UAE continuing to prioritise social inclusion and family empowerment under its national policy for people of determination, Dubai's flagship airport is reinforcing its role as a leader in building not just smart cities but compassionate ones.
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