Emirates Unveils Groundbreaking Accessibility Innovations at AccessAbilities Expo 2024

As part of its commitment to creating a more inclusive travel experience, Emirates Airline introduced a suite of innovative services and products for People of Determination at the AccessAbilities Expo 2024, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The largest exhibition for people with disabilities in the Middle East was inaugurated by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, highlighting the airline’s dedication to accessibility under its ‘Fly Better’ promise.

The new offerings range from technological innovations to enhanced services, all aimed at ensuring a smoother journey for travelers with disabilities. Among the highlights are a virtual reality (VR) airport tour for pre-travel preparation, a sign language robot to assist deaf passengers, and a protective transportation device for wheelchairs.

Key Innovations for Travelers with Disabilities

• Be My Eyes App Integration: Emirates will soon become the first airline to integrate with the Be My Eyes app, offering live video support for the visually impaired. Passengers can use the app to receive real-time guidance from Emirates agents via video call, helping them navigate airports and other travel-related activities.
• Sensory Guide for Neurodivergent Travelers: Emirates launched a sensory guide for its terminal at Dubai International Airport (DXB), providing neurodivergent travelers with detailed information on sensory stimuli like sound, light, and smell at different airport locations. This guide, developed with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), aims to ease travel anxiety for neurodivergent customers.
• Wheelchair Accessible Chauffeur Service: The airline introduced its first wheelchair-accessible chauffeur vehicle, equipped with an electric lift and ramp for safe and secure transport. The service is currently available to First and Business Class passengers in Dubai, with plans to expand further.
• Virtual Reality Tour: Customers with accessibility needs can now take a virtual tour of Emirates Terminal 3, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the airport layout and inclusive services before traveling. This VR experience highlights key accessibility features such as priority lanes and accessible boarding gates. 

Emirates showcased several prototypes developed by its Innovation Lab, including a sign language robot that provides travel information in sign language and a wheelchair cube designed to protect mobility aids during transit. The airline is also working on inflight accessibility tools, such as noise-cancelling headphones for neurodiverse passengers and enhanced inflight entertainment systems with closed captions and audio descriptions. 

In addition to these innovations, Emirates has trained over 29,000 cabin crew and ground staff to support passengers with autism and other hidden disabilities. The airline is also expanding its inclusivity training programs across all operations to ensure a seamless travel experience for every customer.

The initiatives are part of Emirates’ broader accessibility strategy, supported by the recently launched Emirates Accessibility Policy and the establishment of the Office of Accessibility and Inclusion.

With these new developments, Emirates continues to lead the aviation industry in offering inclusive travel solutions, making air travel more accessible for all.

For more information on Emirates’ accessibility services, visit the Accessible Travel page on Emirates.com.