Dubai Airports Launch 2035 Plan to Make Travel More Inclusive
Dubai Airports have started a new phase of their long-term accessibility plan — a strong 10-year commitment to make Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) the most inclusive airports in the world by the year 2035.
This move supports the UAE’s vision to protect and empower People of Determination (PoD) and is part of Dubai’s wider goal to become a completely disability-friendly city. The updated plan focuses on improving existing systems, enhancing guest experiences at every step, and building a new global standard for accessible travel.
The renewed strategy highlights how Dubai Airports are taking major steps to ensure equal access for every traveler, creating a welcoming journey for all.
Accessibility as a Core Mission
Accessibility has always been one of Dubai Airports’ top priorities. Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, said that this 2035 plan reflects the organization’s deep commitment to inclusion.
“Our commitment to accessibility is not just a promise; it is a core part of our mission to deliver a world-class travel experience for every guest,” said Al Joker.
He added that by working closely with partners and directly involving People of Determination, Dubai Airports are transforming the airport journey and setting a new benchmark for accessible travel worldwide.
This initiative makes accessibility a core mission in every area of airport operations — from digital platforms and signage to terminal design and customer service. The idea is simple: to make sure that every person, regardless of their ability, can travel comfortably and independently.
‘DXB for All’ Campaign Highlights Real Stories
To bring this vision to life, Dubai Airports launched a new public awareness campaign called “DXB for All.” This initiative was co-created with People of Determination and members of the oneDXB community, which includes major airport partners.
The campaign focuses on six real-life stories from travelers with different experiences. These stories include a young child with sensory sensitivities exploring a busy airport terminal, a deaf traveler communicating with airport staff through sign language, and a visually impaired guest navigating the airport using tactile floor paths.
The “DXB for All” campaign builds on the earlier “We All Meet the World Differently” (WAMTWD) initiative launched in 2022. But while the earlier campaign focused on physical improvements, this one focuses more on changing mindsets.
The main goal is to encourage empathy and understanding across the entire airport community — including staff, travelers, and the wider public — so that everyone can contribute to making the airport a more inclusive space.
Empowering Voices of Inclusion
The campaign also celebrates inspiring advocates who are playing a big role in promoting accessibility. These include Emirati accessibility advocate Fatma Al Jassim, former Paralympic swimmer and inclusion consultant Jessica Smith, and Dubai-based mother Yasmin Carey, who shares her journey traveling with her son Ellis, who has autism.
Also featured are Layth Kamal, who lives with autism and ADHD; Mohammed Alghafli, a visually impaired accessibility advocate; and Ahmed Butti, a strong voice for the deaf community.
Their real-life stories show what inclusion truly means and how small efforts can make a big difference. Through their experiences, the campaign helps people understand that accessibility is not only about ramps and signs — it’s about listening, understanding, and designing experiences that work for everyone.
Strong Partnerships for Inclusive Travel
The 2035 strategy is supported by the oneDXB community, which brings together major airport stakeholders and government departments. These include Emirates, flydubai, dnata, Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, GDRFA, Dubai Health, Dubai Taxi Corporation, DCAS, Dubai Duty Free, and Serco.
Together, these organizations are committed to making travel through Dubai airports smooth, comfortable, and inclusive. By combining resources and expertise, they are ensuring that accessibility becomes part of every stage of the passenger journey — from check-in and security to boarding and ground transportation.
This collaboration shows how Dubai is leading the way in creating a culture of shared responsibility for inclusion, ensuring that everyone — whether a traveler or staff member — contributes to a more accessible future.
Wide Range of Accessibility Services at DXB and DWC
Dubai Airports already offer a range of accessibility services designed to make traveling easier for People of Determination and their families. These services have been developed through feedback from passengers and accessibility experts.
Some of the main features include:
- Travel Planner Visual Guide: A step-by-step visual guide that helps travelers understand the airport layout before their journey.
- Sunflower Lanyard: A discreet way for passengers to indicate that they need extra support or understanding.
- Autism-Friendly Routes: Quiet areas and sensory-friendly spaces designed for travelers with autism or sensory sensitivities.
- Wheelchair and Mobility Support: Dedicated wheelchair services and priority assistance for those with mobility needs.
- Hearing Loops: Over 520 hearing loops are installed across terminals to support passengers with hearing aids.
- Dedicated Taxis: Specially designed accessible taxis for convenient travel to and from the airport.
- Sensory-Friendly Lounges: Calm and relaxing lounges for passengers who may feel overwhelmed by noise or crowds.
Each service is managed by trained airport staff who have received special training in accessibility awareness and customer care. Their goal is to ensure that every guest feels seen, heard, and supported throughout their journey.
Changing Mindsets Across the Travel Experience
Dubai Airports’ new approach to accessibility is not only about physical upgrades — it’s also about cultural change. The new phase focuses on creating a sense of empathy, patience, and understanding among airport employees, partners, and travelers.
By educating staff and spreading awareness, Dubai Airports are encouraging everyone to see accessibility as a shared value, not a special feature. Even small gestures — such as giving extra time, offering help, or communicating clearly — can make a huge difference in the travel experience of People of Determination.
This change in mindset ensures that inclusivity becomes part of the airport’s DNA. The 2035 vision promotes a culture where accessibility is natural and built into every interaction, service, and decision.
Supporting Dubai’s Vision of a Disability-Friendly City
The 2035 strategy fully supports Dubai’s mission to become one of the most disability-friendly cities in the world. The plan connects directly to the Dubai Disability Strategy 2025, which aims to remove barriers and create equal opportunities for People of Determination across all areas of life.
By focusing on accessibility in transportation and travel, Dubai Airports are helping make this goal a reality. The improvements not only make air travel easier for PoD passengers but also encourage a wider cultural shift toward inclusivity across the city.
This effort shows how Dubai continues to lead by example — proving that accessibility is key to innovation, progress, and global recognition.
Redefining the Future of Inclusive Air Travel
Through this renewed 2035 vision, Dubai Airports are redefining what accessibility means in global aviation. The airports are working closely with People of Determination, government agencies, airlines, and service partners to create an environment where inclusion is standard practice, not an afterthought.
As one of the busiest airport hubs in the world, DXB’s commitment to inclusivity will inspire other airports to follow similar models. The message is clear — travel should be accessible to everyone, regardless of ability.
By combining empathy, innovation, and partnership, Dubai is building the future of travel — one where every journey is safe, comfortable, and inclusive.
