Dubai is set to be the first-ever Certified Autism Destination, as the emirate looks to enhance the destination’s accessibility and inclusion for travelers from all over the world to the next level.
Partnering with the Dubai Economy and Tourism department and the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the first phase of this initiative includes access to specialised autism-specific training for staff across all Dubai attractions, hospitality and entertainment organisations.
The training will “enhance staff knowledge, understanding and strategies for communication, guest experience and safety to better serve and accommodate people of determination,” the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) said.
“With 1 in 6 people having sensory needs and rising global autism diagnosis rates, there is an overwhelming need for more accessibility options in the travel and entertainment industry. Many autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals and their families find it challenging when visiting new places or planning family trips due to lack of staff understanding or supports,” the statement added.
Dubai’s Certified Autism Destination is in line with the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which is aimed at empowering people of determination.
“Through the training and eventual certification with IBCCES, Dubai’s leading entertainment, hospitality and travel facilities will become essential entities to furthering the initiative and create an accessible destination for people of determination,” the statement added.
“We want to ensure that all visitors have the best possible experience when visiting Dubai. We are proud to partner with IBCCES to provide staff training to equip Dubai’s hospitality and entrainment teams with the tools and training needed to better serve people of determination, including those who are autistic or sensory-sensitive,” Issam Kazim, chief executive officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce said.
The next step to achieve the Certified Autism Destination will require travel and entertainment locations to undergo the IBCCES’ Certified Autism Center (CAC) certification process.
“Beyond staff training, the CAC process will also include onsite reviews to provide additional recommendations and supports so that attractions and resorts can enhance the visitor experience,” the statement said.
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