Dubai Duty Free has earned recognition from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), making it the first autism-certified retail operator at an airport globally.
The Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation highlights the extensive training provided to employees aimed at fostering an inclusive shopping experience for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. This significant achievement is part of a wider initiative that has established Dubai as a Certified Autism Destination, with Dubai Airports and Emirates Airlines also receiving the same accreditation as the first airport and airline to do so.
Comprehensive Training Initiative
Over 4,800 staff members from Dubai Duty Free have undergone training, enhancing their ability to assist those on the autism spectrum. Notably, this was accomplished with a remarkable completion rate of 98.76% within just 26 days.
Ramesh Cidambi, managing director of Dubai Duty Free, expressed his pride in receiving this certification from IBCCES, stating, “This recognition reflects our dedication to providing inclusive service to our varied clientele. It is aligned with our broader objectives to improve accessibility and inclusivity throughout our operations, and it underscores our belief that travel experiences should be welcoming and safe for everyone.”
The official announcement took place in September at the Dubai Duty Free headquarters in Ramool, where senior executives, including Salah Tahlak and Mona Al Ali, along with representatives from IBCCES and the Dubai College of Tourism, were present.
Implementing Autism-Friendly Practices
In alignment with its certification, Dubai Duty Free is rolling out autism-friendly service protocols across its retail operations. These initiatives include adopting best practices that emphasize empathy, respect, and accommodating customers with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences, including the use of the internationally recognized sunflower symbol to discreetly signal individuals with hidden disabilities.
Cidambi remarked, “These initiatives represent a crucial advancement in transforming Dubai Duty Free into a more inclusive and supportive environment for all travelers. We are pleased to implement strategies that not only raise awareness but also offer meaningful assistance to individuals and families dealing with hidden disabilities.”
Key initiatives include:
Awareness and identification – staff members will wear sunflower pins to indicate their readiness to assist.
Dedicated counters – retail areas will prominently display the sunflower symbol for easy identification.
Sensory kits – available for travelers identifying themselves with sunflower lanyards who may need additional support.
Operational consistency – each shift will have a designated ‘Autism Champion’ to ensure the initiatives are effectively implemented.
Dedicated to Continuous Accessibility Efforts
Furthermore, Dubai Duty Free will serve as a strategic partner for the upcoming 7th AccessAbilities Expo, the leading regional event focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Through its Dubai Duty Free Foundation, the retailer has consistently supported inclusive initiatives aimed at empowering people with disabilities, aiding their integration into society, and enhancing their participation within the community.