Dubai: Expo City Dubai has been recognized with the Certified Autism CenterTM designation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), marking a significant landmark in its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
This designation follows a comprehensive training and review process, where the Expo City team, including staff from security, hospitality, transport, and attractions, filed their skills to better support autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors.
This achievement aligns with Dubai’s broader accessibility goals, which include becoming the Eastern Hemisphere’s first Certified Autism Destination. This prestigious title is granted to communities with a wide range of certified lodging, recreation, and entertainment options designed to meet the needs of individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities.
Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture and Chief Human Resources Officer at Expo City Dubai, highlighted that accessibility and inclusivity are core elements of the city’s long-term, people-centric strategy. Marjan Faraidooni stated that, “We have built accessibility into our very fabric, building an inclusive culture and environment for all—whether residents, working professionals, visitors, or employees.” Faraidooni also highlighted Expo City’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences for all visitors, regardless of ability.
Myron Pincomb, CEO and Board Chairman of IBCCES, praised Expo City Dubai’s leadership in promoting inclusion. Pincomb stated that, “Expo City sets a global benchmark for accessibility and inclusion, demonstrating the readiness of its team to support those with diverse needs.” This achievement is a key step in Dubai’s vision to evolve one of the most accessible cities in the world.
Aisha Al Mansoori, Director of the Abu Dhabi Autism Center, also voiced pride in Expo City’s certification, emphasizing the importance of equal opportunities for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. Al Mansoori stated that, “This certification marks a noteworthy step in assuring that everyone has a seamless experience at Expo City and all that it has to offer.”
Expo City Dubai’s offerings for autistic visitors include the Sunflower Lanyard program, which helps individuals signal the need for additional assistance or accessible entry, as well as the welcoming of service dogs. These initiatives complement the city’s broader efforts to improve wellbeing and quality of life for all visitors.
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, Expo City Dubai ensures that every visitor appreciates a positive and welcoming experience, whether visiting attractions like Terra, Alif, and Vision, or exploring dining and accommodation options.
This certification builds on the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai, which was the first World Expo and the first event in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia to be named a Sensory Accessible Event. Additionally, Expo 2020 was the first event to be inducted as a member of The Valuable 500, a collective of global businesses focused on inclusivity.