Emirates completes more than 40 Travel Rehearsals for youth with autism globally, easing travel anxiety for more than 250 families
In a significant step towards inclusive travel, Emirates has expanded its efforts to support neurodiverse passengers through its Emirates Travel Rehearsal programme, now successfully conducted across more than 40 cities worldwide. Over the past year, the initiative has benefited more than 250 families, offering children and young adults with autism the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the airport journey — a process often associated with anxiety and sensory overwhelm. Building Confidence Through Familiarity Designed as a guided, real-time simulation of the travel experience, the programme allows participants to rehearse each stage of the airport process — from check-in and baggage drop to immigration, security clearance and boarding. For many individuals on the autism spectrum, predictability and routine are essential. Airports, with their fast pace, unfamiliar procedures and sensory stimuli, can present significant challenges. Emirates’ Travel Rehearsals aim to address this ...