Dubai: Emirates has continued its commitment to making travel more accessible for all, by successfully arranging bespoke Emirates Travel Rehearsals across more than 40 cities globally over the past year. With more than 250 families positively impacted, Emirates Travel Rehearsals are designed to support children and young adults with autism, allowing them to practice the journey through the airport to prepare for real flights, easing travel anxiety and empowering them to fly with more confidence.
According to Emirates News Agency, after the initial Emirates Travel Rehearsals in Dubai resulted in positive feedback from families, schools, and autism organizations, the Emirates Office of Accessibility and Inclusion formulated the travel rehearsal into an official program to be rolled out across its global network. Since April 2025, Emirates' Airport Services teams have arranged more than 40 of these travel rehearsals in cities such as Accra, Athens, Bali, and more.
More than 35,000 Emirates staff have been trained to support customers with autism and facilitate travel rehearsals. Emirates teams work closely with airport authorities and partners to ensure each rehearsal is a supportive and successful experience for the families. Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Emirates Airport Services Outstation and Business Support, commented on the program's success and the impressive collaboration among stakeholders.
As the world's first autism-certified airline, Emirates recognizes the challenges families face when traveling internationally due to sensory stimuli. A survey on AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families are hesitant to travel for these reasons. For many with autism, planning and predictability are crucial, and airports present many unknowns.
Emirates Travel Rehearsals are designed as community collaborations, with support from international airport teams, Border Control, and Security teams. Participants practice checking in, dropping baggage, going through immigration and security, and exploring retail and dining areas. They receive mock boarding passes and interact with uniformed staff. In some locations, access to real aircraft is arranged.
On an international level, participants have reported that the rehearsals are invaluable, providing comfort, preparation, and familiarity, supported by trained staff, thus facilitating a safe and successful flight experience.