by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 2:35 PM ET, Mon April 28, 2025
Dubai is the first destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to be certified by the IBCCES as a Certified Autism Destination, paving the way towards greater accessibility.
The initiative was spearheaded by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism in partnership with tourism attractions, lodgings and other businesses throughout the city. Over 70,000 people received IBCCES’ autism and sensory awareness training, with over 300 hotels participating in the training and 15 attractions achieving Certified Autism Center designations.
The certification process took two years to complete, and each certified location now offers custom sensory guides, trained employees and more.
Autism accessibility begins even before arrival: airline Emirates was the world’s first Autism Certified Airline in 2024. Dubai International (DXB) became the first international airport to receive the Certified Autism Center designation in 2023.
Dubai International Airport has an Assisted Travel Lounge for people with disabilities. (Photo Credit: Visit Dubai)
Dubai’s other certified attractions and lodgings include Expo City Dubai, Motiongate Dubai, The Green Planet, Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, LEGOLAND Dubai Resort and many more.
Travelers can download the IBCCES’ accessibility app to easily search and find certified attractions, lodgings and experiences.
“Dubai’s designation as a Certified Autism Destination is a landmark moment in our accessibility journey, demonstrating a collective commitment to not only consistently developing infrastructure, but also enhancing skills and services across the city,” said His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). “Under the guidance of our visionary leadership, we are dedicated to further elevating the experience in Dubai for all residents and visitors, with accessibility as a core priority, and this recognition has been made possible thanks to the steadfast efforts and support of all our partners, including IBCCES, the aviation ecosystem, hotels, and attractions.
“This also marks another important step towards achieving the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for business and leisure, and aligns with the priorities of the UAE Year of Community. As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings, we remain focused on making Dubai the best city to visit, live, and work in — for everyone.”
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