Dubai: In a bold move that cements Dubai’s position as a global leader in accessibility and inclusion, Dubai Airports has announced a renewed 10-year strategy aimed at transforming both Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) into the world’s most accessible and inclusive airports by 2035.

The Dubai Airports 2035 Accessibility Vision builds on the city’s long-standing commitment to the rights of People of Determination (PoD) and aligns with the UAE’s broader national strategy to make Dubai a fully disability-friendly city.

The comprehensive plan seeks to strengthen the foundations already in place, enhance guest experiences across all touchpoints, and redefine what inclusive travel means in the modern era of aviation.

A Vision Rooted in Inclusion

Announcing the initiative, Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Airports, said the renewed strategy represents more than infrastructure improvements; it marks a mindset shift toward empathy, collaboration, and universal accessibility.

“Our commitment to accessibility is not just a promise; it is a core pillar of our mission to deliver a world-class travel experience for every single guest,” Al Joker stated. “By working closely with our partners, and for the first time with the wider People of Determination community, we are transforming the entire airport journey and setting a new global standard for accessible travel.”

This long-term vision emphasizes not only physical accessibility but also inclusive services, employee training, and awareness across Dubai’s aviation ecosystem, ensuring that every traveler, regardless of ability, enjoys a seamless journey.

Strong Partnerships for Seamless Accessibility

The ambitious 2035 accessibility plan is being implemented through the oneDXB community, a multi-agency collaboration involving key partners such as Emirates, flydubai, dnata, Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, GDIFA, Dubai Duty Free, Serco, Dubai Taxi Company (DTC), Dubai Health, and Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS).

This cross-sector partnership ensures accessibility is embedded at every level, from airport design and customer service to security procedures and ground transport.

Dubai Airports already offers an extensive range of services for travelers with visible and hidden disabilities. These include:

• The Travel Planner, an online visual guide that helps travelers prepare for their journey step-by-step.
• Sunflower Lanyards, discreet identifiers offering priority support and access to assistance routes.
• Autism-friendly travel routes and sensory-friendly lounges are designed for guests who prefer quieter environments.
• Wheelchair support and dedicated taxis for People of Determination.
• Over 520 hearing loops are installed across terminals for passengers with hearing impairments.

Additionally, the Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2 provides a calm, comfortable environment for travelers who need additional support before their flight.

Building the Future: From Accessibility to Empathy

While Dubai’s airports have long been at the forefront of innovation, the 2035 vision represents a step beyond technology, toward human-centered design and inclusive travel culture.

Accessibility, according to Dubai Airports, goes far beyond physical infrastructure. The real transformation lies in changing perceptions, fostering empathy, and creating a culture where accessibility becomes a natural part of every process.

“By co-creating this campaign with People of Determination, we are ensuring their voices shape how we design, operate, and connect, not just with our guests, but the wider community we serve,” Al Joker added.

A Global Benchmark for Inclusive Travel

Dubai’s aviation sector has always been synonymous with excellence, but this renewed commitment propels it into a new dimension, one defined by inclusion, awareness, and collaboration.

The move also aligns with Dubai’s broader city-wide initiative to make every aspect of life, from public transport and healthcare to tourism and education, accessible to all residents and visitors.

This focus is consistent with the UAE’s National Policy for Empowering People of Determination, which aims to eliminate barriers and promote full participation in social and economic life.

Already, DXB’s leadership in inclusive design has been recognized internationally. Recent achievements include:

• Certification as an autism-friendly airport, making DXB one of the few global hubs with this designation.
• The installation of record-breaking 520 hearing loops, enhancing communication for travelers with hearing loss.
• Continuous staff training programs in accessibility awareness, sign language, and passenger assistance.

Looking Ahead: A Vision Beyond 2035

As Dubai’s population and visitor numbers continue to grow, accessibility will remain central to the city’s success as a global tourism and business hub. The long-term plan ensures that Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) evolve with the same pioneering spirit that has defined the city for decades.

In the years ahead, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is also expected to become the main travel hub, with plans for it to be the world’s largest capacity airport, built with universal design principles at its core.

Dubai’s approach, combining technology, empathy, and collaboration, is now being hailed as a global model for inclusive aviation.

Conclusion: Redefining the Future of Air Travel

With its 2035 Accessibility Vision, Dubai Airports is doing far more than improving facilities, it’s rewriting the narrative of modern air travel. By putting people first, empowering those with determination, and reshaping infrastructure around empathy, Dubai is proving that accessibility and excellence go hand in hand.

Whether it’s a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler, every guest passing through DXB and DWC will experience a journey designed with care, respect, and inclusion at its heart, a journey that truly reflects the spirit of Dubai: a city for everyone.