Dubai Airports Unveils Vision for Accessible Travel by 2035
In a significant move aiming to set global standards for inclusive travel, Dubai Airports has announced the next phase of its accessibility strategy. This renewed 10-year commitment, unveiled on Monday, seeks to transform both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) into the most accessible and accommodating airports worldwide by the year 2035.
The long-term plan outlined by Dubai Airports is anchored in the dual objectives of enhancing the guest experience across all facets of airport operations and establishing DXB and DWC as trailblazers in inclusive travel practices. The initiative reflects both international best practices and the UAE’s commitment to the rights of People of Determination (PoD), in alignment with Dubai’s broader vision to become a disability-friendly city.
A Comprehensive Accessibility Campaign
The launch of this ambitious strategy is complemented by a robust public awareness campaign, aptly named “DXB for All.” This campaign is not merely a promotional endeavor; it has been co-designed in collaboration with members of the People of Determination community, underscoring the importance of their lived experiences in shaping the services they utilize. Central to the campaign are six poignant narratives that illustrate various accessibility challenges faced by individuals at DXB. These stories include those of a child with sensory sensitivities navigating a bustling terminal and the experiences of deaf passengers who rely on employees’ proficiency in sign language.
Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “Our commitment to accessibility is not just a promise; it is a core pillar of our mission to deliver a world-class travel experience for every single guest. By engaging with the People of Determination community, we are completely transforming the airport journey and setting a new global standard for accessible travel.”
Building a Culture of Empathy and Inclusion
Building on the previous campaign “We All Meet the World Differently” (WAMTWD), which was introduced in 2022, the new initiative aims to foster a cultural shift recognizing that accessibility extends beyond physical infrastructure. This broader vision necessitates a transformation in mindset, wherein empathy becomes the cornerstone of interactions between airport staff, travelers, and the general public. Through the lens of the experiences shared in the campaign, the initiative encourages stakeholders to view the world from a different perspective, ultimately promoting a more inclusive environment.
Notable advocates have joined in this campaign, amplifying its message and ensuring diverse representation within the discourse around accessibility. Included among them are Emirati accessibility pioneer Fatma Al Jassim, award-winning disability inclusion consultant Jessica Smith, and Yasmin Carey, mother of an autistic child, along with advocates from various backgrounds who champion the rights of the visually impaired and the deaf community.
Collaborative Efforts for Seamless Journeys
The strategic direction of this initiative is the result of collaborative efforts involving multiple stakeholders across the airport’s oneDXB community. This includes major industry partners such as Emirates, flydubai, Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDIFA), and many others, all working in unison to ensure that every guest enjoys a seamless and comfortable journey through both DXB and DWC.
To facilitate this goal, Dubai Airports is also expanding its services for guests with visible and hidden needs. These services include a Travel Planner—a digital visual guide designed to help travelers prepare for their journey—and the Sunflower Lanyard, a discreet identifier that allows individuals to access priority lanes. Additional offerings encompass complimentary two-hour parking, dedicated taxis, comprehensive wheelchair services, and installation of hearing loops at more than 520 service points throughout the airport.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by travelers with sensory sensitivities, Dubai Airports has also introduced the Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2, a quiet, sensory-friendly space designed to provide a positive and calming environment for those in need.
As the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for tourism and aviation, the commitment of Dubai Airports to build an inclusive future not only enhances the travel experience but also advocates for societal change, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and inclusion as vital components of customer service and community engagement.
Tags:
#UAE #BusinessNews #PeopleCultureNews