Dubai Becomes First Certified Autism Destination in Eastern Hemisphere

Dubai has become the first destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to earn the Certified Autism Destination (CAD) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), setting a regional benchmark for inclusive and accessible travel.

Spearheaded by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the initiative reflects a city-wide effort to ensure accessible experiences for autistic travellers and those with sensory needs.

Over 70,000 people across Dubai’s tourism and hospitality sectors have completed IBCCES training, with more than 300 hotels involved and 15 key attractions, including Expo City Dubai, Atlantis The Palm, The Green Planet, and LEGOLAND Dubai Resort, now designated as Certified Autism Centers.

The two-year certification process extends beyond on-the-ground facilities. Emirates became the world’s first Autism Certified Airline in 2024, and Dubai International Airport (DXB) achieved the same status in 2023, ensuring support from arrival to departure.

Travellers can now access sensory guides, trained staff, and search certified experiences through IBCCES’ accessibility app — marking a meaningful step forward in positioning Dubai as a destination for all.