In a significant step towards inclusive travel, Emirates has expanded its efforts to support neurodiverse passengers through its Emirates Travel Rehearsal programme, now successfully conducted across more than 40 cities worldwide.
Over the past year, the initiative has benefited more than 250 families, offering children and young adults with autism the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the airport journey — a process often associated with anxiety and sensory overwhelm.
Building Confidence Through Familiarity
Designed as a guided, real-time simulation of the travel experience, the programme allows participants to rehearse each stage of the airport process — from check-in and baggage drop to immigration, security clearance and boarding.
For many individuals on the autism spectrum, predictability and routine are essential. Airports, with their fast pace, unfamiliar procedures and sensory stimuli, can present significant challenges. Emirates’ Travel Rehearsals aim to address this gap by providing a structured and supportive environment in which participants can experience and understand the journey before undertaking an actual flight.
In selected locations, participants are also given access to aircraft, allowing them to step onboard and interact with cabin crew — a gesture that further enhances familiarity and confidence.
From Pilot Initiative to Global Programme
Following the success of initial trials in Dubai, which received strong endorsement from families, educators and autism organisations, Emirates formalised the initiative through its Office of Accessibility & Inclusion, scaling it into a global programme.
Since April 2025, travel rehearsals have been conducted in cities spanning six continents, including London, Paris, Sydney, Toronto, Dubai, Hong Kong and Barcelona. The programme is supported by close collaboration between Emirates teams, airport authorities, border control and security agencies, as well as local schools and autism centres.
More than 35,000 Emirates staff worldwide have undergone specialised training to better assist customers with autism, ensuring that support extends beyond rehearsals into the actual travel experience.
Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Emirates Airport Services Outstation & Business Support, described the initiative as a collective success.
“The Emirates Travel Rehearsal programme has been a resounding success across six continents, with strong collaboration from our teams, airport partners, and the families who trusted us. We will continue to expand this programme to reach more communities and empower more families to travel with confidence.”
Addressing a Global Travel Barrier
According to a survey conducted by AutismTravel.com, 78% of families with autistic members are hesitant to travel due to the challenges posed by unfamiliar environments and sensory triggers.
For many, international travel is not merely inconvenient but overwhelming — leading some families to avoid it altogether.
Emirates’ initiative directly addresses this barrier, transforming what can be an intimidating experience into one that is manageable, and ultimately, achievable.
Voices from the Community
Feedback from participants across the programme highlights its tangible impact.
Parents and educators have described the rehearsals as “invaluable,” noting that the experience offers clarity and reassurance that cannot be replicated through explanation alone.
One parent in Angola shared that they had avoided travelling for a decade due to anxiety, but now feel confident planning a trip. In Düsseldorf, a 13-year-old participant expressed newfound courage, saying he was no longer afraid to fly.
Educators and autism group leaders have also praised the initiative for its attention to detail — from sensory-friendly considerations to the patience and understanding demonstrated by staff.
Beyond practical preparation, the programme has also delivered moments of joy and empowerment, with children expressing excitement at boarding aircraft, interacting with crew, and experiencing elements of travel previously out of reach.
A Broader Commitment to Accessibility
The Travel Rehearsal programme forms part of Emirates’ wider commitment to accessible travel. As the world’s first autism-certified airline, the carrier continues to invest in initiatives designed to support neurodiverse passengers at every stage of their journey.
These include onboard sensory products and fidget tools available across all cabin classes, as well as a dedicated Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub on its website. The platform offers structured guidance tailored to different needs, covering every stage of travel — from pre-departure preparation to arrival.
Looking Ahead
Emirates has confirmed that the Travel Rehearsal programme will continue to expand throughout 2026, with more cities, schools and families set to benefit.
In an industry often defined by scale and efficiency, the initiative stands out for its human-centred approach — one that recognises that true accessibility is not simply about infrastructure, but about understanding, empathy and preparation.
As global travel continues to evolve, Emirates’ efforts offer a compelling model for how airlines can create more inclusive and supportive experiences for all passengers.