emirates7 - Dubai Airports organized a guided travel simulation at Dubai International Airport (DXB) for children with autism spectrum disorder participating in the Ta’alouf Programme, managed by Al Jalila Foundation, the charitable arm of Dubai Health.
The initiative aimed to boost confidence and prepare children and their families for travel.
Established 13 years ago, the Ta’alouf Programme provides families and educators of people of determination with skills to address behavioral, psychological, and educational needs. It supports the inclusion of individuals with conditions such as autism, Down syndrome, and developmental delays by turning challenges into opportunities for development.
The event was conducted in collaboration with oneDXB community members, caregivers, volunteers, and airport staff, aligning with the UAE Year of the Community and Dubai Airports’ ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity.
Majed Al Joker, COO of Dubai Airports, emphasized that the initiative highlights the value of teamwork and empathy in creating accessible travel experiences. “Accessibility is more than just infrastructure; it’s about addressing individual needs with compassion and understanding,” he stated.
Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed gratitude to Dubai Airports for supporting families of people of determination. He highlighted that the project supports the UAE’s national policy of empowering people of determination and demonstrates DXB’s dedication to inclusive travel.
The simulation provided children with a calm and structured environment, guided by trained Guest Experience Ambassadors. Participants experienced key airport procedures—from check-in and passport control to boarding—at their own pace, helping to reduce anxiety and build comfort with the process.
This program forms part of Dubai Airports’ broader strategy to improve accessibility for everyone. Through its “We All Meet the World Differently” campaign, the airport continues to adopt inclusive practices and train employees to assist travelers with both visible and invisible challenges.
Dubai International Airport is also the first international airport worldwide to earn the Certified Autism Center designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), highlighting Dubai’s leadership in inclusive travel.
The initiative aimed to boost confidence and prepare children and their families for travel.
Established 13 years ago, the Ta’alouf Programme provides families and educators of people of determination with skills to address behavioral, psychological, and educational needs. It supports the inclusion of individuals with conditions such as autism, Down syndrome, and developmental delays by turning challenges into opportunities for development.
The event was conducted in collaboration with oneDXB community members, caregivers, volunteers, and airport staff, aligning with the UAE Year of the Community and Dubai Airports’ ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity.
Majed Al Joker, COO of Dubai Airports, emphasized that the initiative highlights the value of teamwork and empathy in creating accessible travel experiences. “Accessibility is more than just infrastructure; it’s about addressing individual needs with compassion and understanding,” he stated.
Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed gratitude to Dubai Airports for supporting families of people of determination. He highlighted that the project supports the UAE’s national policy of empowering people of determination and demonstrates DXB’s dedication to inclusive travel.
The simulation provided children with a calm and structured environment, guided by trained Guest Experience Ambassadors. Participants experienced key airport procedures—from check-in and passport control to boarding—at their own pace, helping to reduce anxiety and build comfort with the process.
This program forms part of Dubai Airports’ broader strategy to improve accessibility for everyone. Through its “We All Meet the World Differently” campaign, the airport continues to adopt inclusive practices and train employees to assist travelers with both visible and invisible challenges.
Dubai International Airport is also the first international airport worldwide to earn the Certified Autism Center designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), highlighting Dubai’s leadership in inclusive travel.