Eight Dubai attractions recognised as certified autism centres
Dubai Municipality highlights inclusive transformation at AccessAbilities Expo 2025
DUBAI has raised the bar for inclusive public spaces, with eight of its leading parks and attractions officially earning Certified Autism Center status from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
The accredited destinations include Dubai Frame, Children’s City, Quranic Park, Al Mamzar Beach Park, Mushrif National Park, Creek Park, Zabeel Park, and Safa Park.
The announcement was made during Dubai Municipality’s participation at the AccessAbilities Expo 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 6 to 8 October. The achievement underscores the Municipality’s commitment to ensuring that all public spaces meet the highest global standards of accessibility and inclusion. Visitors with autism and sensory sensitivities, as well as their families, can now enjoy a safe, welcoming, and supportive recreational experience in these certified destinations.
This milestone also reaffirms Dubai’s standing as a world-leading family destination that places inclusivity and quality of life at the centre of its public experience.
How did it evolve?
Dubai Municipality underwent a comprehensive certification process led by IBCCES, which included in-depth staff training on autism awareness and on-site facility evaluations. Employees demonstrated competence in supporting visitors with autism, while facilities were upgraded to meet rigorous international benchmarks for accessibility, safety, and visitor experience.
The process formed part of a wider improvement journey that reimagined how families experience Dubai’s parks. Enhancements included clearer signage, sensory-friendly zones, ‘Quiet Rooms’, upgraded restrooms and changing areas, and improved accessibility features such as wheelchair-friendly pathways, ramps, and priority entrances. These updates were designed to ensure comfort, confidence, and inclusivity for all visitors.
Beyond physical upgrades, the Municipality trained its teams to provide empathetic and effective support to individuals on the autism spectrum. Staff across the certified locations received tailored education on sensory awareness, communication strategies, and guest engagement to ensure a more inclusive and reassuring environment.
Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said: “By earning this international certification, we are setting new standards that enhance the experience of families with children on the autism spectrum, making visits easier, more accessible, and truly enjoyable. Our goal is to provide safe, inclusive, and engaging public spaces where every family can connect and create lasting memories together.”
He added that the initiative reflects Dubai Municipality’s broader vision of building a city that is “inclusive, liveable, and welcoming in the truest sense.” The certification aligns with Dubai’s ambition to become a fully disability-friendly city and one of the world’s best places to live, work, and visit.
What’s next?
Anwahi revealed that this milestone marks only the beginning of a citywide effort to expand autism-friendly initiatives across more destinations. “Inclusivity will become the defining feature of every park and attraction in Dubai,” he said.
Myron Pincomb, CEO and Board Chairman of IBCCES, praised the achievement, stating: “By certifying eight of its leading parks and recreational facilities, Dubai has set a global benchmark for inclusive public spaces and reaffirmed its leadership in accessibility and innovation.”
Dubai’s 220-plus parks and recreational spaces welcomed over 31 million visitors in 2024, including 29,022 People of Determination. These destinations have become vital community hubs for leisure, health, and social connection.
The Certified Autism Center designation is awarded to organisations that demonstrate excellence in autism accessibility through staff training, independent assessments, and long-term inclusion strategies. Certified locations are featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, allowing families worldwide to locate inclusive venues, review sensory features, and access relevant services.
For more than two decades, IBCCES has led global training and certification for professionals working with cognitive disorders across healthcare, education, and hospitality. Through its platforms, including AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, it continues to expand the reach of inclusive destinations worldwide – a mission now proudly reflected in Dubai’s newest achievement.