Dubai Airport Introduces Passport Control, Priority Check-in, Boarding For People Of Determination

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has announced a comprehensive programme to provide a seamless travel experience to the people of determination. The new programme will have two phases over two years as well as service partners to improve traveling for passengers with chronic fatigue, autism, and PTSD (post-trauma stress disorder).

Dubai Airport will launch a travel planner for pre-travel preparation and an autism friendly route for POD travellers. Travellers will get a prioritised route through check-in, passport control, security check point and boarding, which can be availed when wearing the sunflower lanyard. These lanyards are a globally recognised symbol of a hidden impairment and can be worn by anyone who might require extra help.

“Specially trained staff equipped to support POD travellers will be easily identifiable wearing sunflower pins, allowing for increased visibility, communication and support throughout the airport journey,” the airport operator said.

Dubai Airport has been accredited by the Dubai Centre as an autism-friendly environment. The educational campaign is specifically related to socially acceptable language and empathy. Key training materials will be distributed across all airport entities, ensuring that POD travellers are met with consistent support and a positive customer experience.

For the second phase, additional innovative solutions, including quiet rooms, connected airports, and an airport safari will take place.

 “Dubai Airports is committed to promoting the inclusion and participation of POD – who, as an integral part of our travelling customer base deserve the highest level of care and customer service. We are working to provide the essential services and amenities and are proud to be collaborating with the Dubai Autism Centre and the sector to drive awareness around hidden disabilities. This initiative is only the beginning of what we hope will be a transformative travel experience for all POD that travel through our airports,” Majed Al Joker, COO of Dubai Airports, said.