DXB Achieves Historic Milestone as the First International Airport to Attain Certified Autism Centre Designation

Dubai International (DXB) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the first international airport to be granted the Certified Autism Centre™ (CAC) designation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

This accomplishment underscores Dubai Airports’ commitment to enhancing the travel experience and fostering accessibility for individuals with disabilities, aligning with Dubai’s aspirations to be recognized as a Certified Autism Destination™.

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, expressed the significance of this achievement, stating,

“This recognition attests to our steadfast commitment to providing an inclusive travel experience for all our guests, including those with hidden disabilities. In line with UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021, aiming for the Emirate to be the world’s leading disability-friendly city, we are devoted to promoting the inclusion of all guests and creating an airport environment where everyone feels welcomed and supported.

“We are honored to collaborate closely with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the IBCCES team to address challenges in this area.”

Essa bin Hadher, General Manager at Dubai College of Tourism, highlighted the pivotal role of Dubai International Airport as the initial touchpoint in the traveler’s journey, emphasizing the significance of this accomplishment in advancing accessibility goals.

Dubai International (DXB) underwent a thorough on-site assessment of all three terminals conducted by IBCCES to earn the certification. The assessment included an evaluation of the tailored services introduced through the Sunflower Lanyard Programme.

The Sunflower Lanyard Programme discreetly identifies and assists People of Determination (POD) guests, providing access to prioritized routes for check-in, passport control, security checkpoints, and boarding when wearing a sunflower lanyard. Specially trained Guest Experience Ambassadors and employees wearing a sunflower pin are available to assist POD travelers throughout their airport journey.

In addition to the Sunflower Lanyard Programme, Dubai International (DXB) introduced a hidden disability service training and awareness program as part of its ‘We all meet the world differently’ initiative launched in 2022. This program, delivered to 33,000 airport staff across DXB service providers, enhances their understanding of visible and non-visible disabilities.

Furthermore, a travel planner was introduced as a step-by-step visual guide for passengers with hidden disabilities, facilitating their navigation of the airport. DXB’s POD service offering includes complimentary two-hour parking, specialized assistance at customs and immigration, dedicated taxis, and wheelchair services.

Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman, commented on the certification, stating,

“This certification reflects the airport operator’s dedication to exceptional service and aligns with Dubai’s vision for a more accessible city. Through our partnership, we empower airport staff with skills and tools to create a more welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers, contributing to an enhanced travel experience for all.”