Dubai named autism certified destination
The emirate has been awarded the accessibility honour following efforts to enhance all aspects of the visitor experience from air travel and hotels to attractions, and transportation.
The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards officially awarded the Certified Autism Destination status on Monday April 28.
Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism has been working hard on initiatives to make travel more inclusive in the emirate.
Key initiatives included comprehensive staff training programmes, expanded visitor support at attractions, and the introduction of sensory guides and hidden disability lanyards to ensure a seamless and inclusive experience for all.
Dubai becomes the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). pic.twitter.com/tQtW3FMOHG
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 28, 2025
Earlier in April, it was confirmed that Emirates was the world's first autism certified airline while Coca-Cola Arena in City Walk was also announced as an autism certified destination.
In the past two years, more than 70,000 people have received autism and sensory awareness training, including staff at 300 city hotels.
More than 15 attractions, including Motiongate Dubai and Expo City Dubai, have earned IBCCES certifications in addition to beaches and parks.
The official certification is part of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, by championing talent development, social inclusion, and quality of life and the UAE Year of Community, which includes the goal of creating inclusive spaces that encourage collaboration, a sense of belonging, and shared experiences.
Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman and CEO, said that this is a huge step for accessible tourism.
He said: 'Dubai is raising the bar for accessible tourism, and IBCCES is honoured to support this initiative.
'This achievement represents a significant step in ensuring that all visitors, including autistic people and individuals with sensory needs, can explore and experience everything Dubai has to offer with confidence and ease.'
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