Dubai has been recognized as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere, with certification granted by 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 in various fields such as aviation, accommodation, transportation, and visitor experience also contributed to the efforts.

The program included the implementation of practices such as staff training across the city, improving visitor support services, providing sensory guides, and using markers for hidden disabilities. Each certified facility was inspected on-site by IBCCES and supported with specially prepared sensory guides.

DET collaborated with IBCCES to provide autism and sensory awareness training to tourism employees. The "Dubai Way" online platform of the Dubai College of Tourism was used in the training processes. In addition, effective communication methods with individuals with special needs were conveyed through the "Inclusive Service" program. The 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, with more than 300 hotels involved in the process. More than 15 attractions have been certified by IBCCES.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) received the Certified Autism Center™ title in December 2023, and accordingly, 45,000 employees were given awareness training. The program is also implemented at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport, along with DXB. Emirates Airlines, after receiving certification for its check-in areas in Dubai in April 2024, has 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 has been completed as part of the process.

Officials stated that the ongoing efforts are related 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 for individuals with special needs throughout the city.

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 determined in our goal to make Dubai the best city to live, visit, and work for everyone."

Myron Pincomb, Chairman 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 and explore the city."