Dubai Airports Strengthens Travel Support for People of Determination with Innovative Services
Dubai has implemented a series of support services aimed at enhancing the travel experience for individuals with disabilities, particularly at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC). These initiatives are designed to assist passengers with both visible and hidden disabilities, ensuring a more comfortable journey through crowded terminals and security checks.
The ‘Hidden Disabilities Sunflower’
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one in six people worldwide lives with a disability, many of which are not immediately visible. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower serves as a discreet symbol for individuals with non-visible disabilities, allowing them to signal their need for additional support during their travels. Conditions that may qualify include autism, ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, cognitive or neurological conditions, as well as chronic pain and respiratory issues.
Passengers at Dubai Airports can obtain a Sunflower lanyard at information desks or dedicated support desks throughout the terminals. This lanyard communicates to staff that the wearer may require extra assistance. Airport personnel trained to support individuals with hidden disabilities wear a Sunflower pin, indicating their readiness to help.
Where to Obtain a Sunflower Lanyard
Sunflower lanyards are available free of charge at various locations within the airport:
- DXB Terminal 1: Before the check-in area entry point, look for the Sunflower symbol on information screens and approach an airport employee.
- DXB Terminal 2: Available at the information desk before the check-in areas.
- DXB Terminal 3: Located at the Departure Hall Information Desk, parallel to Departures Entrance 2.
- DWC: Accessible at the information desk before the check-in areas.
Lanyards can also be found at desks located before passport control in all terminals. No documentation or proof of disability is required to receive a lanyard, which can be worn by the individual with the disability or their caregiver.
Six Dedicated Services for People with Hidden Disabilities
1. Autism Friendly Route
Dubai Airports has established an Autism Friendly Route designed to minimize stress for travelers. This route features dedicated lanes at check-in, passport control, and security screening. Marked with sunflower symbols, the route is supported by trained staff who assist passengers wearing Sunflower lanyards. These passengers may be invited to move ahead in queues and can choose to board early or last, depending on their preferences and airline policies.
2. Hearing Loops
To accommodate individuals with hearing impairments, Dubai Airports has installed Hearing Loops at over 520 customer touchpoints. These loops connect to hearing aids or cochlear implants, allowing users to hear announcements and communicate more effectively with staff by reducing background noise. Hearing Loops are available at check-in counters, immigration counters, boarding gates, and help desks.
3. Assisted Travel Lounge at Terminal 2
The Assisted Travel Lounge, located in the Departures area of DXB Terminal 2, provides a dedicated space for People of Determination and travelers with hidden disabilities. This lounge features wheelchair-accessible areas, noise-reducing seating, a decompression zone for autistic passengers, calming lighting, and tactile materials, as well as a designated space for unaccompanied minors.
4. Dedicated Security Lanes
In collaboration with Dubai Airports, Dubai Police have introduced dedicated security lanes for travelers with physical, visual, hearing, and cognitive impairments at both DXB and DWC. These lanes facilitate a quicker and more comfortable screening experience. Additional measures include customized metal detector gates for wheelchair users, over 400 trained employees to assist guests with intellectual disabilities, and private inspection rooms for travelers with prosthetic limbs. Passengers with prosthetic devices are advised to carry relevant medical documentation to expedite the screening process.
5. DPNA Code for Flight Bookings
Individuals classified as Persons of Determination should utilize the ‘DPNA’ code when booking flights. This code stands for ‘Disabled Passenger with Intellectual or Developmental Disability Needing Assistance’ and serves as a standardized request from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It alerts airlines and airport service providers that the passenger may require additional support during their journey.
6. Autism Friendly Travel Planner
Dubai Airports has also developed an Autism Friendly travel planner that outlines airport procedures for travelers. This guide assists individuals from the moment they enter the airport until their flight reaches its destination. The planner is available for download here.
These comprehensive support services at Dubai’s airports aim to facilitate a smoother travel experience for individuals with disabilities.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-06-03 18:21:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk