Autism-Friendly Dubai: Transport, Hotels, and Attractions for Families

Dubai is a leading destination for autism travel, offering inclusive transport, Certified Autism Center™  (CAC) certified hotels, and sensory-friendly attractions. Families from Hong Kong and across Asia can enjoy a seamless and welcoming travel experience tailored to neurodiverse needs.

Dubai’s commitment to inclusivity goes far beyond air travel and airports. From accessible public transport and CAC-certified hotels to sensory-friendly attractions and inclusive public spaces, the city offers neurodiverse families a welcoming and seamless travel experience. Whether it’s navigating the city with ease or enjoying tailored accommodations and attractions, Dubai ensures families with autistic children can explore safely and comfortably.

Autism-Friendly Hotels in Dubai: CAC-Certified Accommodations for Families

Dubai offers more than 35 hotels that have achieved CAC status, and more than 300 are currently in the training and certification process. In addition to having trained staff to attend to the unique needs of ASD individuals and families, these accommodations provide sensory-friendly rooms with adjustable lighting and noise levels, customisable check-in experiences, and optional quiet dining areas.

Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites, for instance, has launched the Rixy Kids Club designed with sensory-friendly toys, and has carved out low-sensory seating in key areas of the hotel, from the spa lounge to the reception desk. Like many other accommodations with CAC status, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel offers an online accessibility guide, which includes a sensory level summary table for each part of the hotel grounds. Other hotels that have been recognised as a CAC by the IBCCES include The H Dubai and Address Downtown.

Dubai Attractions for Autism-Friendly Travel: CAC-Certified Beaches, Parks, and More

Dubai’s top attractions, including the serene Dubai Miracle Garden, Reel Cinemas in Dubai Mall, and Expo City Dubai, have achieved Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) status, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.

There are currently 15 attractions with CAC certification, among them The Green Planet, Atlantis Aquaventure, and LEGOLAND® Dubai. Each center offers sensory guides to outline what families can expect at each venue, key quiet zones, and early access options, as well as designated staff members who have received training to assist families with sensory sensitivities.

One of the most enticing attractions in Dubai is The Green Planet, the city’s first indoor rainforest. With 51 staff members trained in autism and sensory awareness, the park offers a tailored experience for ASD individuals and their families. Upon entry, the park features a designated counter for PoD, offering quick priority access. Additionally, redesigned signage includes sensory ratings for each of its 11 checkpoints, covering noise levels, lighting, and odor. Dedicated Quiet Zones throughout the park are also available for families seeking a low-sensory space.

Public Spaces in Dubai: Autism-Friendly Play Zones and Sensory Areas

Public spaces like Jumeirah Beach and Zabeel Park now include inclusive play zones, accessible pathways, and sensory rest areas, ensuring all families can enjoy Dubai’s outdoor beauty.

“We are committed to making ongoing efforts to ensure our parks are accessible and enjoyed by as many people as possible, whether they are residents of Dubai or tourists,” commented Alanood Al Hashemi, Vice President of Organisational Culture and Impact at Dubai Holding Entertainment. 

Transport in Dubai for Autism-Friendly Travel: Metro, Taxis, and More

Dubai’s public transport system, including the Dubai Metro and Water Taxi, offers features such as lifts, wheelchair access, and dedicated spaces for PoD within trains. However, families are advised to avoid peak hours (6am-8:30am and 5pm-7pm), as trains and stations can become crowded and noisy. Audible beeps and flashing light signals on the Metro may also pose challenges for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

For ease and accessibility, families are encouraged to use Dubai Taxi’s PoD Taxis, operated by trained drivers and specifically designed for neurodiverse travelers. These taxis, which can be requested via the DTC App or Call Center, are distinguished by their size, red rooftop, and the universal special needs blue icon on their windows.

More information on applying for a PoD Taxi available here.

Plan Autism-Friendly Travel with the IBCCES Accessibility App

The IBCCES Accessibility App is a user-friendly, location-based platform that helps individuals of all abilities find accessible businesses, attractions, and public spaces with ease. The app provides up-to-date sensory guides for locations, wait time estimates, and venue-specific tips.

Search through the directory to find local businesses that are welcoming to PoD, as well as recommended travel and entertainment options that are inclusive. Other useful features of the app include real-time language translation services and the ability to search for wheelchair-accessible places while traveling. Experts recommend bookmarking certain locations of interest to make planning more convenient.

If traveling through major transport hubs, such as airports or stations, the IBCCES Accessibility App’s partnership with Sunflower helps users identify accessible services and staff support nearby.

Explore Inclusive Dubai: Autism-Friendly Travel Tips and Resources

Dubai’s strides toward inclusivity are setting an inspiring example for the rest of Asia and the world to follow. As a Certified Autism Destination™, the city boasts wide-ranging sensory-friendly environments with trained staff, showing its commitment to fostering a society that embraces all individuals.

These initiatives ensure that all travelers, regardless of their unique needs, feel understood, welcome, and safe. With careful planning and inclusive support from staff members at certified venues, airlines, and attractions, ASD individuals and their families can confidently explore Dubai and create lasting memories.