Emirates Enhances Accessible Travel with 40+ Autism Rehearsals

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Emirates has taken significant steps to promote inclusive travel by conducting over 40 specialized Travel Rehearsals for children and young adults with autism worldwide. This initiative has benefitted more than 250 families, enabling them to ease travel apprehension and embark on journeys with newfound confidence.

The Emirates Travel Rehearsal program provides a simulated airport experience, allowing participants to navigate the entire travel process, including check-in, security, and boarding. This practical exposure helps children and their families acclimate to the airport setting prior to their actual departure.

Following successful trials in Dubai, Emirates’ Office of Accessibility & Inclusion officially launched a global version of the program. Since April 2025, these rehearsals have taken place at major airports in cities like Dubai, London, Paris, Delhi, Barcelona, Sydney, Toronto, Istanbul, Milan, Brussels, and Cairo, covering six continents.

To facilitate this initiative, Emirates has trained over 35,000 team members to provide specialized assistance to customers with autism. These dedicated personnel collaborate closely with airport officials and partners to guarantee that each rehearsal is conducted in a secure, supportive, and accommodating environment for participating families.

Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Emirates Airport Services Outstation & Business Support, remarked on the robust cooperation among all stakeholders, emphasizing the trust built with parents and educators. He confirmed Emirates’ intentions to broaden the program and reach even more families in additional areas in the future.