Dubai Achieves First Certified Autism Destination In Eastern Hemisphere

Dubai has been officially recognised as the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere, reflecting its commitment to making tourism more accessible and inclusive. The designation, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), highlights the city’s efforts to enhance support for visitors with autism and sensory needs through comprehensive staff training, sensory guides, and inclusive infrastructure across key attractions, hotels, and transportation hubs.

Led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, this initiative aligns with broader national strategies like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE Year of Community, focusing on social inclusion and accessible experiences for all. The certification process involved onsite reviews and collaboration with partners such as Dubai Airports, Emirates, Expo City Dubai, and Dubai Holding Entertainment, all of whom have implemented specialised training programs for staff and developed sensory-friendly facilities.

Commenting on the achievement, Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said, “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. 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.”

IBCCES Board Chairman and CEO, Myron Pincomb, also added, “Dubai is raising the bar for accessible tourism, and IBCCES is honoured to support this initiative. This achievement represents a significant step in ensuring that all visitors, including autistic people and individuals with sensory needs, can explore and experience everything Dubai has to offer with confidence and ease.”

Dubai International Airport (DXB) became the first international airport to earn the Certified Autism Center™ in December 2023, while Emirates Airline now holds the distinction of being the world’s first autism-certified airline. Additionally, attractions including Expo City Dubai and leisure destinations like Motiongate Dubai are now certified as autism-friendly.

To further support inclusivity efforts, all certified locations in Dubai are being featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. This app provides travellers with real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces, and tailored recommendations.