Dubai Airports Launches 10-Year Plan for Inclusive Travel

Dubai Airports has unveiled a transformative 10-year strategy aimed at making Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) the world’s most accessible airports by 2035. This ambitious plan focuses on creating seamless travel experiences for everyone, particularly for People of Determination (PoD), aligning with Dubai’s ongoing mission to be a disability-friendly city on the global stage.

Transforming Accessibility in Aviation

The new plan focuses on enhancing both infrastructure and guest experiences across all touchpoints. From airport entry to boarding gates, every aspect of the traveler’s journey will be reviewed and improved to ensure universal accessibility. The upgrades will follow international accessibility standards, covering mobility, visual, hearing, and sensory needs.

These developments aim not only to improve physical infrastructure but also to promote a culture of inclusion and respect. With technology-driven tools and innovative design, the airports will redefine how accessibility is integrated into modern travel.

“DXB for All” Campaign Launched

To accompany this transformation, Dubai Airports launched a new public awareness campaign called “DXB for All.” Co-created with People of Determination, the campaign highlights the real-life experiences of travelers navigating busy terminals.

Through inspiring stories — from children with sensory sensitivities to travelers who depend on tactile guidance, sign language, and wheelchair support — the campaign illustrates how airports can embrace diverse needs and make air travel enjoyable for everyone.

Building on Past Success

The new campaign builds upon the 2022 initiative “We All Meet the World Differently,” which focused on raising awareness that accessibility extends beyond physical spaces. Dubai Airports emphasizes that achieving true accessibility requires both infrastructure improvements and cultural understanding, ensuring that all staff and stakeholders adopt empathy-driven approaches.

Innovative Accessibility Services

As part of this commitment, Dubai Airports is introducing a wide range of inclusive services. These include the Travel Planner, an online visual guide that helps travelers prepare for their journey; the Sunflower Lanyard program, which offers autism-friendly and priority access; and quiet Assisted Travel Lounges designed for travelers needing calm environments.

Additional services include complimentary parking, dedicated taxis, hearing loops, and specialized wheelchair support across terminals. More than 520 airport touchpoints have been equipped with hearing assistance systems, while sensory-friendly routes make navigation easier for travelers with different needs.

Collaboration Across the oneDXB Community

The accessibility program is a joint effort across the oneDXB community, which includes major partners such as Emirates, flydubai, Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, dnata, and Dubai Duty Free. This collaboration ensures that every part of the airport ecosystem, from airlines to security and retail, supports inclusive and user-friendly operations.

Setting a New Global Standard

By implementing this 10-year plan, Dubai Airports aims to set a global benchmark for accessibility in aviation. The initiative demonstrates that accessibility is not just a necessity but a hallmark of hospitality and modern travel excellence.

Through continuous feedback from People of Determination and collaboration with international experts, Dubai’s airports are positioning themselves as leaders in inclusive travel, ensuring every traveler—regardless of ability—feels valued and supported.

A Future of Seamless and Compassionate Travel

This ambitious strategy aligns with Dubai’s long-term vision to create a city that welcomes everyone. It represents more than just infrastructure advancement—it reflects a deep cultural shift toward empathy, understanding, and inclusivity.

By 2035, travelers arriving at or departing from Dubai will experience airports that are accessible, compassionate, and technologically advanced, embodying the city’s role as a global pioneer in inclusive travel.