Emirates Expands Travel Rehearsal Programme for Autism Support

Emirates Travel Programme Supports Families Across Global Airports

Emirates has expanded its Travel Rehearsal programme, conducting more than 40 sessions at airports around the world over the past year. The initiative has supported over 250 families, helping children and young adults with autism prepare for air travel through guided airport experiences.

The programme allows participants to practice each stage of the airport journey, including check-in, baggage drop, security and boarding procedures. The aim is to reduce uncertainty and help travellers become familiar with the environment before undertaking an actual flight.

Following initial trials in Dubai, the airline formalised the initiative through its Office of Accessibility & Inclusion and extended it across its network. Since April 2025, sessions have been held in cities including Delhi, Barcelona, London, Sydney and Toronto, with support from airport authorities, schools and autism centres.

More than 35,000 Emirates employees have received training to assist customers with autism, supporting both the rehearsal programme and regular travel. The initiative is part of a broader approach to improving accessibility and inclusion across the airline’s services.

Participants and families have reported that the rehearsals help build familiarity and confidence, making air travel more manageable. The airline plans to continue expanding the programme in 2026, working with additional partners and locations.