Dubai Airports Strengthens Support Services for People of Determination
Dubai Airports has implemented a comprehensive suite of support services aimed at enhancing the travel experience for individuals with visible and hidden disabilities at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC). Recognizing the challenges faced by travelers, particularly those classified as Persons of Determination, these initiatives are designed to facilitate smoother navigation through crowded terminals and security checks.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Initiative
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately 1 in 6 individuals globally live with a disability, many of which are not immediately visible. To address this, Dubai Airports has adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a globally recognized symbol that discreetly signals to airport staff that a traveler may require additional support or understanding during their journey.
Conditions that may fall under this category include autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, cognitive or neurological conditions, and various physical disabilities. Travelers can obtain a Sunflower lanyard at information desks throughout the airport, enabling them to communicate their needs effectively. Staff members trained to assist those with hidden disabilities wear a Sunflower pin, indicating their readiness to provide help.
Locations to Obtain a Sunflower Lanyard
Sunflower lanyards are available free of charge at several key locations within the airport:
- DXB Terminal 1: Before the check-in area entry point, identifiable by the Sunflower symbol on information screens.
- DXB Terminal 2: At the information desk prior to the check-in areas.
- DXB Terminal 3: At the Departure Hall Information Desk, located near Departures Entrance 2.
- DWC: At the information desk before the check-in areas.
Lanyards can also be found at desks located before passport control in all terminals. No documentation or proof of disability is required to obtain a lanyard, which can be worn by the Person of Determination, their caregiver, or a member of their travel group.
Six Dedicated Services for Individuals with Hidden Disabilities
1. Autism Friendly Route
Dubai Airports has established an Autism Friendly Route to minimize stress during the airport experience. This route includes designated lanes at check-in, passport control, and security screening, marked with sunflower symbols. Trained staff members wearing sunflower pins assist travelers along this path. Passengers with a Sunflower lanyard are often allowed to move ahead in queues and may have options for early or late boarding, depending on airline policies.
2. Hearing Loops
To accommodate travelers with hearing impairments, Dubai Airports has installed Hearing Loops at over 520 customer touchpoints. These loops connect to hearing aids or cochlear implants, allowing users to hear announcements and communicate more effectively with staff, thereby reducing background noise.
3. Assisted Travel Lounge at Terminal 2
The Assisted Travel Lounge, located in the Departures area of DXB Terminal 2, offers a dedicated space for Persons of Determination and travelers with hidden disabilities. The lounge features wheelchair-accessible areas, noise-reducing seating, a decompression zone for autistic passengers, calming lighting, tactile materials, and a designated area for unaccompanied minors.
4. Dedicated Security Lanes
In collaboration with Dubai Police, Dubai Airports has introduced dedicated security lanes for travelers with physical, visual, hearing, and cognitive impairments at both DXB and DWC. These lanes facilitate a quicker and more comfortable screening process. Additional measures include customized metal detector gates for wheelchair users and private inspection rooms for travelers with prosthetic limbs. Passengers with prosthetic devices are advised to carry relevant medical documentation to expedite the screening process.
5. DPNA Code for Flight Bookings
Travelers classified as Persons of Determination are encouraged to use the ‘DPNA’ code when booking flights. This designation, which stands for “Disabled Passenger with Intellectual or Developmental Disability Needing Assistance,” is a standardized request from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that alerts airlines and airport service providers to the need for additional support.
6. Autism Friendly Travel Planner
Dubai Airports has also developed an Autism Friendly travel planner, which outlines airport procedures and guides travelers from the moment they enter the airport until they reach their destination. This resource is available for download here.
These initiatives reflect Dubai Airports’ commitment to creating a more inclusive travel environment, ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their abilities, can navigate the airport with greater ease and comfort.
Source: www.emirates247.com
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Published on 2026-06-03 18:21:00 • By the Editorial Desk
