Emirates’ “Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities”

The program, titled “Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disability,” was initially introduced in 2022.
A variety of subjects are covered by the show, such as:

1. he UAE National Policy for People of Determination
2. Recognizing Autism
3. Practical tips on how to assist passengers with hidden disabilities
4. Responding with empathy
5. Information on the official support systems to help passengers in the airport.

The milestone has been reached in order to improve the knowledge and expertise of Emirates service members in addressing travelers with hidden disabilities.
To ensure a flawless pre-departure experience for those with hidden disabilities, the airline collaborated with Dubai International, its home airport, to create a helpful travel planner and an autism-friendly route through the terminal.

The airline has also taken a number of well-thought-out actions that will help passengers when they fly. These procedures, taken together, address both the pre-departure and in-flight experiences.

For reference, passengers can find all the information they require on Emirates’ website’s “Accessible Travel Page.”

Passengers with hidden disabilities who book flights will have the option of free seat selection, allowing them to choose the seats that are best for them.

For instance, travellers who want direct aisle access and lots of legroom should choose the bulkhead seats on the aircraft.

Moreover, travelers can order meals in advance. While this is a regular service with Emirates, if a traveler needs a particular dish, they can request it in advance.

Passengers can use the app to pre-order meals as well as schedule their entertainment on Emirates’ ICE system. Pre-planning like this will ease the tension experienced by travellers, including those who may be accompanied or who may have a concealed disability.

Other advantageous policies for travelers with concealed disability include the ability to make reservations using a DPNA code. These travellers will receive additional assistance when they arrive at the terminal thanks to this DPNA code. If the concealed impairment is identified, this code can be applied to a reservation made in person, over the phone, or through a travel agency.

With Emirates’ partnership with DXB, there are a number of helpful measures in place to assist passengers with hidden disabilities when they arrive at the airport.

Passengers will benefit from the measures, which include complimentary free parking for two hours. Those with a strong will can also reserve taxis through Dubai Taxi by calling their toll-free number.

Another precaution is to make sure that all Emirates employees working at the terminal wear a Sunflower pin on their clothing. This will identify them as specially trained members of staff to assist travelers with hidden disabilities.

Travelers must identify themselves to these staff members in order to obtain a sunflower lanyard and receive assistance when traveling to the terminal.

At Dubai International, the Autism Friendly Pathway has also been constructed. Persons of Determination will be able to utilize priority lanes for check-in, security, and boarding, ensuring a smooth journey through the terminal.

Last but not least, travelers who have informed Emirates workers of any concealed disability they may have will have the choice to board either first or last, according on their preferences.

The in-flight experience is another area in which Emirates has paid close attention to detail.

Emirates makes an attempt to seat families with children together and to guarantee that any customers with concealed disabilities are placed with a guardian or companion.

While already being available on Emirates flights, First and Business Class customers with hearing needs will have access to noise-canceling headphones to shut out any background noise for a more tranquil journey.

Similarly, if a passenger has a light sensitivity, the cabin crew will turn off their personal light, close their window blind after takeoff, and let them know the lights will be dimmed once the meal service is through.

Moreover, Emirates has increased its efforts to look after young children. Children can request a “Fly with Me” activity kit as part of such initiatives.

Including puzzles, coloring books, educational games, drawing lessons, and other activities, this activity bundle helps keep young kids occupied and interested throughout the flight.

Last but not least is Emirates’ ICE entertainment system, which although though it has long been a part of the airline’s offerings, already serves as a means of keeping passengers with concealed disabilities amused during the voyage.

With more than 5000 on-demand entertainment channels, 1900 films, 1500 hours of TV, music, podcasts, audiobooks, video games, and 5 channels of live international TV in 40 different languages.