At the heart of Dubai’s bustling downtown, nestled within the iconic Dubai Mall, lies the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, operated by Emaar Entertainment LLC. More than just a showcase of marine life, the attraction is now also a symbol of inclusivity and accessibility, thanks to its efforts in becoming a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC). As part of Dubai’s larger initiative to become a Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD), the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) team sat down with Solomon Ekwaro, a Trainer at Emaar Entertainment LLC, to explore the Aquarium’s transformational journey and the meaningful impact it has had on staff, guests, and the broader community.

Why Certification? A Mission to Serve Every Family

When asked why Emaar Entertainment pursued autism certification, Solomon shared that the motivation was deeply rooted in the aquarium’s family-oriented identity.As a family-oriented attraction, the team saw this initiative as a meaningful way to give back and ensure that individuals of all abilities feel welcomed and supported. Recognizing that individuals on the autism spectrum often face unique challenges when visiting public spaces, the Aquarium sought to proactively address those needs through proper training, environmental adjustments, and enhanced awareness. The certification wasn’t just about meeting a standard, it was about recognizing the challenges faced by individuals with autism and preparing the environment and team to provide truly equitable experiences.

Training with Purpose: Lessons in Empathy and Communication

Throughout the certification process, the team at Dubai Aquarium gained valuable insights that reshaped how they engage with guests. A key learning was the importance of understanding sensory needs—something they had not fully considered before. The training emphasized clear, thoughtful communication and the use of specific tools like visual cues and sensory guides. It also fostered empathy and patience among staff, transforming their approach from simply managing guests to actively supporting them.

Another unexpected challenge involved helping staff unlearn long-held habits and embrace new strategies for interacting with neurodiverse individuals. However, this challenge proved to be a catalyst for growth and team cohesion. Staff began to collaborate more, communicate effectively, and feel empowered in their roles. The training also opened the door to community engagement, where staff were encouraged to connect meaningfully with families and gain a broader understanding of their unique perspectives.

Tools That Make a Difference: The Power of Sensory Guides

One of the most impactful tools implemented during the certification process was the introduction of sensory guides throughout the attraction. These guides provide a snapshot of what to expect in different areas, such as noise levels or lighting intensity, helping families plan their visits with confidence. These visual cues not only inform visitors but also prompt valuable conversations and enhance overall guest engagement. These guides have not only enhanced the guest experience but have also sparked curiosity and awareness among all visitors, promoting open dialogue and understanding.

Shifting the Culture: Awareness from the Ground Up

Since becoming a Certified Autism Center, the Aquarium has witnessed a noticeable shift in staff awareness and guest interactions. Employees are now more attuned to signs of sensory discomfort and proactively offer support, such as expediting access for families who may need it. The atmosphere has become more welcoming, and staff members now view themselves as part of a larger mission to make every guest feel seen and valued.

The training has also sparked personal growth within the team. Some staff members have begun exploring autism education independently, even considering career paths in the field. This renewed sense of purpose has united the team and encouraged them to continue evolving in their understanding of neurodiversity.

Inclusivity has become second nature, from prioritizing PoD guests in queues to adjusting noise levels and creating personalized experiences. The aquarium has truly become a space where every guest feels welcome.

Real Impact: Joyful Moments and Lasting Impressions

Guests, too, have responded positively. Many have expressed appreciation for the sensory guides and the thoughtful accommodations provided. For some families, the Aquarium has become a trusted and safe space to enjoy quality time together. Schools and organizations supporting individuals with autism have also started arranging visits, further solidifying the Aquarium’s role as a leader in accessibility.

While there may not be one standout story, Solomon noted countless small moments, smiles, excitement, and expressions of joy from children engaging with the exhibits, which reinforce the impact of their efforts.

Even guests who observe from outside often express interest and appreciation, asking about the sensory guides and learning about the efforts made to accommodate every visitor.

A Ripple Effect Across Dubai

Beyond the walls of the Aquarium, this initiative contributes to Dubai’s vision of being a truly inclusive city. By embracing certification, Dubai is setting a precedent in the region and creating opportunities for individuals and organizations to deepen their understanding of accessibility. The hope is that ongoing sensory-friendly events, public awareness campaigns, and robust feedback mechanisms will continue to foster growth and collaboration across sectors.

Solomon believes this initiative opens doors not only for better guest experiences but also for career development, community engagement, and future innovation in accessibility. From training staff to hosting sensory-friendly events and facilitating meaningful feedback, the initiative is helping shape Dubai into a global leader in autism-friendly tourism.

Looking Ahead: Advice to Other Organizations

To others considering the CAC certification, the team at Dubai Aquarium offers clear advice: start with open-mindedness and a willingness to learn. Invest in staff training, prioritize empathy, and stay committed to the journey. The rewards, both for the organization and the community, are profound.

Final Thoughts: A City Welcoming All

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo’s commitment to inclusivity through IBCCES’ Certified Autism Center™ program has created more than just a checklist of accommodations, it’s sparked a movement of empathy, awareness, and action. As part of the broader Certified Autism Destination™ initiative, their story is a shining example of how every attraction can play a vital role in building a more inclusive world, one smile, one guide, and one conversation at a time.

To further support inclusivity efforts, Dubai’s CACs are featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. This app provides individuals with a variety of disabilities with real-time guidance on certified locations, sensory-friendly spaces, and tailored recommendations. By connecting users to locations worldwide, employment opportunities, and access to several other accessibility resources, the Accessibility App helps individuals with disabilities better navigate life and get the most out of daily activities.

Delivering the global standard for training and certification in the fields of autism, neurodiversity, and accessibility, IBCCES provides a series of certification programs that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. For over two decades, IBCCES has been a global leader, setting the industry standard in autism and cognitive differences training.