DXB Becomes First International Airport to Receive Certified Autism Center Designation

Dubai Internationall (DXB) marked a historic milestone by becoming the first international airport to obtain the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC), awarded by the International Board for Continuing Education Credentials and Standards (IBCCES).

This achievement highlights Dubai airports‘Unwavering commitment to improving the travel experience and making it easier for people with disabilities, while supporting Dubai’s quest to become a Certified Autism Destination™.

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, saying,

“It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing an inclusive travel experience for all our guests, including those with hidden disabilities, that it has been recognised. In line with the UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021 to make the Emirate As the world’s leading disability-friendly city, we are dedicated to promoting the inclusion of all guests and creating an airport environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.

“It is an honor to work closely with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the IBCCES team to address the challenges in this area.”

Essa bin Hadher, Director General of Dubai College of Tourismcommented,

“Dubai International Airport is the first touchpoint in the traveler’s journey; therefore, this achievement is a big step towards our accessible goals. At Dubai College of Tourism, we provide accessible training to stakeholders across the ecosystem through our Dubai Way training platform designed to provide people in tourism-facing roles with the knowledge and skills to ensure the best customer service for People of Determination.”

Dubai International (DXB) received the certification following a thorough on-site evaluation of the three terminals by IBCCES. During the evaluation, IBCCES experienced the personalized services introduced by the Sunflower cord program.

The program discreetly identifies and assists People of Determination (POD) guests and grants them access to priority routes for check-in, passport control, security checkpoints and boarding, which can be taken advantage of by wearing a lanyard. sunflower. Specially trained guest experience ambassadors and sunflower pin-wearing employees are available to assist POD travelers during their airport journey.

Complementing this and introduced as part of your ‘We all know the world differently.‘, launched in 2022, a tailored hidden disability services training and awareness program was selected and delivered to 33,000 airport employees of DXB service providers to improve their knowledge and understanding of visible and non-visible disabilities.

Additionally, a trip planner was introduced to provide a step-by-step visual guide for passengers with hidden disabilities, to help them navigate the airport before their trip. Complimentary two-hour parking, specialized customs and immigration assistance, dedicated taxis and wheelchair services are an integral part of DXB’s POD service offering.

Myron Pincomb, president of the board of directors of IBCCES, saying,

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

News source: Emirates News Agency