Emirates Travel Rehearsal Programme Arrives in Zambia

Emirates Travel Rehearsal Initiative Supports Inclusive Air Travel in Zambia

Emirates has expanded its Travel Rehearsal programme to Zambia, continuing its efforts to make air travel more accessible and inclusive for passengers with autism and other accessibility requirements.

The initiative was recently introduced in Lusaka through a collaboration between Emirates, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and AutismTales Support Group. The programme allows children on the autism spectrum and their carers to experience a simulated airport journey before travelling, helping them become familiar with airport procedures and environments.

Participants practised key stages of the travel process, including check-in, baggage drop, immigration, and security procedures, while also experiencing the atmosphere of the airport’s retail and dining areas. The aim is to reduce uncertainty and build confidence ahead of future travel.

Research published on AutismTravel.com found that 78 per cent of families feel hesitant about travelling or visiting unfamiliar places due to concerns related to autism and accessibility. Emirates developed the Travel Rehearsal programme to help address these challenges by providing practical, real-world airport experiences.

Ahmad Ismail, Emirates Country Manager in Zambia, said the initiative helps make airport and aircraft experiences more predictable and reassuring for children and young adults with autism. He also acknowledged the support of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, the AutismTales Support Group, and the Emirates Airport Services teams in Lusaka for delivering the programme.

Urvesh Desai, Managing Director of Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL), said inclusive travel remains a priority for the organisation. He noted that initiatives such as travel rehearsals help airports and airlines better understand the needs of passengers with autism and other hidden disabilities while creating a more supportive travel environment.

Nyakandata Mwaba, Founder of AutismTales Support Group, highlighted the challenges many neurodiverse travellers face when navigating unfamiliar environments and services. She said greater awareness and preparation by both service providers and families can contribute to a more comfortable travel experience.

Parents who participated in the programme also welcomed the initiative. Many noted that the experience helped their children better understand airport processes and reduced uncertainty about future journeys.

Since April 2025, Emirates has organised more than 40 Travel Rehearsal events at airports across Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America. Participating locations include Accra, Athens, Bali, Bangalore, Barcelona, Brussels, Dubai, Dublin, Edinburgh, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Madrid, Mauritius, Milan, Paris, Rome, Sydney, Toronto, Vienna, Warsaw and Washington, among others.

To support these initiatives, more than 35,000 Emirates employees have received training to assist customers with autism and to support Travel Rehearsal programmes. The airline continues to work closely with airport authorities and community organisations to ensure each event provides a positive and supportive experience for participants and their families.

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