Dubai is on the brink of becoming the first autism-friendly city in the Eastern Hemisphere, according to Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing. Almarri believes that the city is making great strides in its efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals with autism. He noted that Dubai has already taken significant steps towards becoming a more accessible destination for people with autism, such as training staff members in understanding the needs of individuals with autism and implementing sensory-friendly initiatives throughout the city.
Almarri emphasized the importance of creating a more inclusive society, not only for people with autism but for all individuals with varying needs and abilities. He highlighted the positive impact that an autism-friendly environment can have on individuals with autism and their families, noting that it can significantly enhance their travel experiences and quality of life. Almarri also pointed out that by becoming an autism-friendly city, Dubai has the opportunity to set an example for other cities in the region and beyond.
In recent years, Dubai has made significant progress in promoting autism awareness and acceptance. The city has partnered with various organizations and institutions to educate the public about autism and to provide support and resources for individuals with autism and their families. Dubai has also launched several initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive society, such as sensory-friendly spaces in public areas, autism-friendly events and activities, and training programs for businesses and organizations to better accommodate individuals with autism.
The tourism sector plays a crucial role in Dubai’s efforts to become an autism-friendly city. Almarri highlighted the importance of training tourism professionals to cater to the specific needs of individuals with autism, such as providing sensory-friendly accommodations, communication tools, and personalized services. He also emphasized the significance of creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment in hotels, airports, tourist attractions, and other tourism facilities.
Dubai’s commitment to becoming an autism-friendly city has not gone unnoticed. The city has received recognition and praise from various organizations and experts in the field of autism advocacy. Almarri expressed his gratitude for the support and encouragement that Dubai has received in its mission to create a more inclusive society, emphasizing that the city is dedicated to continuing its efforts to promote autism awareness and acceptance.
Looking ahead, Almarri is optimistic about Dubai’s prospects of becoming the first autism-friendly city in the Eastern Hemisphere. He is confident that with the continued support and collaboration of various stakeholders, Dubai will be able to achieve this goal and set a new standard for inclusivity and accessibility in the region. Almarri stressed the importance of ongoing education and awareness initiatives to ensure that Dubai remains a welcoming destination for individuals with autism and other special needs.
In conclusion, Dubai is on the path to becoming a pioneer in promoting autism awareness and acceptance in the Eastern Hemisphere. The city’s dedication to creating an autism-friendly environment reflects its commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and social responsibility. With its ongoing efforts and initiatives, Dubai is well-positioned to lead the way in fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with autism and their families. By setting an example for other cities and regions, Dubai has the opportunity to positively impact the lives of individuals with autism and contribute to a more diverse and welcoming world for all.
