Emirates has made history by becoming the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, marking a big step toward making air travel easier for people with autism.
The Dubai-based airline announced the achievement during Autism Awareness Month. As part of its efforts, Emirates trained over 30,000 staff members, including cabin crew and ground personnel, to better assist passengers with autism. The airline has also launched a special “Travel Rehearsal” program in 17 cities, helping children with autism prepare for real flights by simulating the entire airport experience.
What Is the Travel Rehearsal Program?
Emirates’ Travel Rehearsal initiative started in 2023 in Dubai. It gives children and their families a chance to go through airport procedures before their actual journey. This includes checking in, going through security, visiting Duty Free, and practicing boarding.
The idea is to help reduce stress and anxiety by making the process familiar. Now, the program has expanded globally, with rehearsals taking place in cities like Barcelona, Brisbane, Budapest, Cebu, Dubai, Durban, Madrid, Manila, Manchester, Montreal, Nice, Oslo, Paris, and Toronto.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable and confident when they fly with us,” said Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer of Emirates. “Making travel inclusive is part of our strategy, and we are proud to lead in this area.”
Why This Matters for Travelers
Many families avoid air travel because the airport experience can be overwhelming. According to AutismTravel.com, 78% of families hesitate to travel due to sensory challenges, and 94% say they would take more trips if staff were trained to support autistic travelers.
By introducing trained staff and rehearsal programs, Emirates is helping reduce these travel barriers.
Certified by IBCCES
The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) awarded Emirates the Autism Certification after a year-long collaboration. The training program helps staff understand autism, identify sensory triggers, and offer support tailored to each traveler.
This certification shows Emirates’ strong commitment to inclusivity and aligns with international standards for accessibility in travel.
Inflight Entertainment Highlights Autism Awareness
Emirates also took its message to the skies. Throughout April, the airline showcased a special lineup on its award-winning ice entertainment system. Passengers could watch films like Temple Grandin, Ezra, and The Flight of Bryan, along with autism-themed podcasts and documentaries such as Inside Our Autistic Minds and Carl the Collector.
These offerings reached millions of travelers worldwide, spreading awareness about neurodiversity in a thoughtful and engaging way.
Working Together for Accessible Travel
The Travel Rehearsal program is the result of a team effort. Emirates has worked closely with several Dubai entities, including:
- Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism
- Dubai Airports
- General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs
- Dubai Police
- Dubai Customs
Local autism centers such as the Safe Center for Autism, Rashid Center for People of Determination, and Dubai Autism Centre also helped develop the program by providing essential feedback.
Global Impact and Future Plans
This initiative supports Dubai’s goal of becoming the most accessible travel destination in the world. Emirates plans to expand the Travel Rehearsal program to even more cities, offering greater support to neurodivergent travelers worldwide.
The service is currently not bookable and is available by invitation, coordinated through local autism centers and foundations in each participating city.
A New Standard in the Airline Industry
By combining training, simulation programs, and thoughtful content, Emirates has set a new standard for the airline industry.
