Emirates Completes Over 40 Global Travel Rehearsals, Empowering 250 Families of Youth with Autism
Emirates has successfully organized over 40 bespoke Travel Rehearsals in more than 40 cities worldwide over the past year, aimed at making air travel more accessible for families with children and young adults on the autism spectrum. This initiative has positively impacted over 250 families, providing them with the opportunity to practice navigating the airport environment before actual flights. The program is designed to alleviate travel anxiety and foster confidence in young travelers.
Following the initial success of the Emirates Travel Rehearsals in Dubai, which garnered positive feedback from families, schools, and autism organizations, the Emirates Office of Accessibility and Inclusion formalized the program for implementation across its global network.
Since April 2025, Emirates’ Airport Services teams have collaborated to facilitate these rehearsals at various international airports, including locations such as Accra, Athens, Bali, Bangalore, Barcelona, and many others. The initiative has involved extensive training for over 35,000 Emirates staff members to ensure they can effectively support customers with autism during travel.
A Commitment to Accessibility
Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Emirates Airport Services Outstation and Business Support, highlighted the program’s success across six continents. He noted the impressive collaboration among stakeholders, including Emirates teams, airport partners, and the families who participated. Abdullah emphasized the airline’s commitment to expanding the program to reach more locations and families, thereby empowering them to travel with confidence.
Understanding Emirates Travel Rehearsals
As the world’s first autism-certified airline, Emirates recognizes that international air travel can be particularly challenging for families due to sensory overload and unpredictable environments. A survey conducted by AutismTravel.com indicated that 78% of families are hesitant to travel for these reasons. The Travel Rehearsals serve as a proactive measure to help neurodivergent individuals familiarize themselves with the airport experience.
These rehearsals are collaborative efforts involving airport teams, border control, security personnel, and autism centers globally. Participants engage in a simulated travel experience, practicing essential actions such as checking in, dropping off baggage, and navigating through security. They receive mock boarding passes and have opportunities to interact with uniformed staff. In some instances, access to real aircraft has been arranged for participants.
Positive Feedback from Participants
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents, therapists, and educators have reported that the rehearsals significantly enhance the travel experience for families. One parent from an autism center in Accra expressed gratitude for the support provided, stating that it felt like a “road to freedom” for their child. A 13-year-old participant from Düsseldorf shared that the experience alleviated their fears about flying, expressing hope for future travel.
An Autism Group Leader from Edinburgh noted the excitement generated during the event, particularly when children witnessed an Emirates A350 aircraft arrive. Participants returned home with goodie bags, further enriching their experience.
Continued Support for Neurodiverse Customers
Emirates plans to sustain the Travel Rehearsal initiative throughout 2026, inviting additional schools and autism centers to participate. The airline also offers a range of sensory products and fidget toys available onboard across all cabin classes, catering to passengers who may experience anxiety during flights.
The Emirates Accessible and Inclusive Travel Hub has been developed to provide comprehensive information on accessible travel options. This resource features user-friendly navigation, allowing customers to explore various support services tailored to specific needs, including those related to hidden disabilities.
For more information, visit www.zawya.com.
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Published on 2026-04-20 23:09:00 • By the Editorial Desk
