Emirates has become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, setting a new standard for inclusive travel. This certification highlights Emirates’ commitment to providing a welcoming, personalized experience for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) awarded the certification to Emirates, reflecting the airline’s dedication to seamless travel for all passengers. Additionally, more than 30,000 Emirates staff, including cabin crew and ground staff, will receive autism-awareness training to ensure a welcoming environment for everyone.

Travel can overwhelm individuals with autism due to sensory sensitivities. As a result, many families hesitate to travel because of the lack of autism-friendly services. In response, Emirates is creating initiatives designed to enhance accessibility, supporting Dubai’s goal to become the most accessible city. Consequently, this aligns with a broader effort to cater to the needs of neurodiverse passengers, ensuring smooth journeys from check-in to arrival.

Emirates collaborated with IBCCES to review its services and meet autism-friendly standards on both short and long flights. Furthermore, the review involved input from thousands of passengers, caregivers, and professionals, which helped create an effective framework for inclusive air travel. This partnership ensures that Emirates addresses the specific needs of travelers with autism and sensory sensitivities.

In 2025, Emirates will introduce sensory-friendly services, such as sensory guides and neurodiverse-friendly products. These will help passengers plan by providing information on sensory environments at airports and during flights. Moreover, the airline will also offer sensory aids like fidget tools to reduce stress and improve comfort during travel.

Emirates’ efforts contribute to Dubai’s larger goal of creating an inclusive travel environment. As a result, Dubai International Airport became the first airport to achieve Certified Autism Center™ status, and the city aims to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere. Therefore, Emirates’ initiatives are shaping the future of accessible air travel, enabling individuals with autism to travel confidently.

Related stories:

• Norse Atlantic Airways Partners to Make Travel More Accessible
• Singapore Airlines: Setting New Standards for Excellence
• United Airlines’ New Tool Helps Wheelchair Travelers Find the Right Plane!
• LATAM’s Five-Star Service Sets New Standards for Air Travel
• Qatar Airways Rolls Out Starlink Wi-Fi on 777s, Setting a New Standard