Dubai has been recognized as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere with a certification from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The certification process was led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Stakeholders from various fields such as aviation, accommodation, transportation and visitor experience also contributed to the efforts.

Within the scope of the program, practices such as staff training throughout the city, development of visitor support services, provision of sensory guides and the use of markers for hidden obstacles were implemented. Each certified facility was inspected on-site by IBCCES and supported by specially prepared sensory guides.

DET collaborated with IBCCES to provide autism and sensory awareness training to tourism employees. The Dubai Tourism College's online platform "Dubai Way" was used in the training processes. In addition, effective communication methods with individuals with special needs were conveyed through the "Inclusive Service" program. Training content included interactive modules, videos and case studies.

In the last two years, Dubai has provided autism awareness training to more than 70,000 people; more than 300 hotels were included in the process. More than 15 attractions have been certified by IBCCES.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) received the title of Certified Autism Center™ in December 2023, and in this direction, 45,000 employees were given awareness training. The program is implemented at DXB as well as Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport. Emirates Airlines, after receiving certification for its check-in areas in Dubai in April 2024, trained more than 30,000 employees as of 2025.

Expo City Dubai also became a Certified Autism Center™ at the end of 2024. Staff training was completed within the scope of the process.

Officials stated that the ongoing efforts are linked to regulations in the field of inclusiveness in tourism. The certification program, which is carried out in line with the goals within the framework of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the UAE Year of Community, is part of the steps taken to increase access throughout the city for individuals with special needs.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said in his assessment, "This title is a historic milestone in our journey of accessibility in the city. In line with our visionary leadership, we are committed to making Dubai the best city to live, visit and work for everyone."

Myron Pincomb, Chairman of the Board and CEO of IBCCES, said, "Dubai is raising the bar globally for accessible tourism. A very important step has been taken for individuals with autism and guests with sensory sensitivities to feel safe while exploring the city."

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