Emirates is taking a groundbreaking step toward inclusivity by becoming the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, enhancing accessibility for customers with autism and sensory sensitivities. In collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Emirates plans to implement tailored services and training programs that set a new benchmark in the aviation industry. Over 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff are undergoing specialized training, with the official certification expected in the coming months.
This initiative is part of Emirates’ mission to provide seamless, personalized travel experiences for all passengers, including those on the autism spectrum. With plans to announce new services for individuals with sensory needs and their companions later this year, the airline aims to transform air travel for a global community that often faces significant challenges.
Bridging Barriers in Air Travel
For many individuals with autism, air travel can be daunting due to heightened sensory stimuli. According to a survey by AutismTravel.com, 78% of families hesitate to travel due to accessibility concerns, and 94% would travel more frequently if destinations and staff were autism-certified. Emirates’ efforts align with Dubai’s vision to become the most accessible destination in the world, ensuring that every traveler feels welcomed and supported.
Setting New Standards in Aviation
Emirates partnered with IBCCES to design an industry-leading framework, informed by research from over 14,000 individuals with disabilities, their caregivers, and industry professionals. The resulting standards cover every stage of the passenger journey—from ground services to in-flight accommodations. Flight audits, industry surveys, and expert consultations further shaped these initiatives, which Emirates will implement as the aviation industry’s first comprehensive accessibility blueprint.
Comprehensive Training for Staff
As part of the certification process, at least 80% of Emirates’ customer-facing staff will complete advanced autism and sensory awareness training. This training builds on the foundation established in 2023, when 23,000 staff participated in the “Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities” program. The enhanced curriculum equips Emirates’ teams to identify and address individual needs, manage sensory triggers, and provide compassionate, informed support to passengers and their families.
By leading this innovative transformation, Emirates reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity and sets a new standard for accessibility in air travel, ensuring that all customers can embark on their journeys with confidence and ease.
Emirates’ new standards and services for customers with autism
Throughout 2025 and beyond, Emirates will be introducing new standards and services for customers with autism and sensory conditions that will ensure more enjoyable and accessible travel. One such service is the introduction of ‘sensory guides’ – digital aids developed as part of the audit conducted by IBCCES in collaboration with Emirates that empower travellers to make informed decisions about the various environments encountered, and plan what suits their needs and preferences. The guides were created by conducting comprehensive facilities audits across Dubai locations and the inflight experience, measuring sensory inputs in public areas such as sound levels, lighting, and potential sights and smells. Another development expected in 2025 will be the introduction of neurodiverse sensory products, for customers on Emirates flights - sensory fidget toys or aids that can encourage focus, help to reduce self stimulatory behaviour and de-stress.
Working together for Accessible Travel: Emirates, Dubai Airports and Dubai Tourism
In April 2024, Emirates achieved a Certified Autism Center Designation for all four of its Dubai Check In facilities including its dedicated hub in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). In December 2023, Dubai Airport was celebrated as the first international airport to receive the Certified Autism Centre Designation. Continuing to drive the accessible travel agenda forward, Emirates’ new training programme, as well as new standards and protocols to be implemented in stages in 2025 and beyond, will enable neurodiverse customers to fly more comfortably. These achievements align with the Department of Economy and Tourism's (DET) vision of Dubai becoming the first Certified Autism Destination (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. By working closely together - Emirates, the Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, are making significant inroads in inclusive and accessible travel.
Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders. IBCCES partners with cities, destinations, and organizations on initiatives like the Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) program, ensuring autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors feel welcomed and safe. Becoming a CAD means tourism, hospitality, and entertainment organizations complete autism and sensory sensitivity training and certification developed and delivered by IBCCES. IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for families that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other.
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