Dubai Airports to roll out plan to elevate travel experience for people of determination

Dubai Airports is introducing a new programme to ensure inclusive travel for people of determination (POD) with hidden disabilities that travel through Dubai International (DXB).

The new initiative will contribute to the UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021 vision for the emirate to be the world’s leading disability-friendly city and barrier-free community that empowers and welcomes all POD travellers, Dubai Airports said in a statement on Monday.  It forms part of the operator’s shared values ‘We all meet the world differently’.

This new programme will roll out in two phases over two years and unite service partners across the DXB community to elevate the travel experience for passengers with hidden disabilities such as autism, chronic fatigue, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

Dubai Airports will be introducing a travel planner for pre-travel preparation and an autism friendly route, with a prioritised route through check-in, passport control, security check point and boarding, which can be availed when wearing the sunflower lanyard.

Trained staff will be easily identifiable wearing sunflower pins, allowing for increased visibility, communication and support throughout the journey.

Dubai Airports added that a comprehensive educational campaign to drive awareness around autism, specifically relating to socially acceptable language and empathy will be undertaken as part of the programme, complemented by the distribution of training materials across all airport entities.

The second phase of the roll-out will see additional solutions, including connected airports, quiet rooms, and an airport safari tour.

“Dubai Airports is committed to promoting the inclusion and participation of People of Determination – who, as an integral part of our travelling customer base deserve the highest level of care and customer service,” said Majed Al Joker, COO of Dubai Airports.

“We are working to provide the essential services and amenities and are proud to be collaborating with the Dubai Autism Centre and the sector to drive awareness around hidden disabilities.”