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The city of Dubai used to be a sleepy, small fishing and pearling village. Things have changed over the years! Primarily because Dubai is now known as a vibrant city full of history, delicious cuisine, shopping, and autism-friendly activities. No wonder tourists from all over the world have been booking flights to check out this fantastic destination! As an autistic family, you will love all the recent changes in Dubai. I am talking about how many businesses are making accommodations to ensure autistic families like yours enjoy every moment of their visit. Today, I will share a few tips with you so you can enjoy an autism-friendly vacation in Dubai.
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Tips for an Autism-Friendly Vacation in Dubai
Utilize the Priority Route Through the Dubai International Airport
Recently, Dubai International Airport created a priority route for passengers with hidden disabilities. The fast-track routes were designed to ensure autistic families like yours can get through security, passport control, and check-in much faster.
You must request a sunflower lanyard to utilize these routes in the airport.
The airport also has a sensory room that your autistic family can use when you arrive in Dubai or when it is time to leave. Inside the room, you will find many sensory toys and tools for your autistic child.
Visit Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is one of the city's autism-friendly attractions. It offers 360-degree views of the entire city. Start on the ground floor and check out the museum. Then, head up to the Sky Deck to see the sights.
Visit Children’s City
Children’s City can be found within Creek Park in Dubai. This educational park offers plenty of interactive activities for children of all ages. Your autistic child can engage in activities related to the topics that interest them the most.
Some of the topics at Children’s City include space exploration, human body science, and nature. There is also a planetarium for stargazing.
Visit Quranic Park
Islamic traditions and history can be learned during a visit to Quranic Park. There are four different sections for your family to see here. Those sections include The Miracles Cave, The Greenhouse, The Lake, and The Orchards.
It is free to wander around this park. However, there is a fee to enter some areas you may want to explore.
Attend a Sensory Friendly Movie
Certain movie theaters in Dubai offer sensory-friendly movie screenings. During these movies, the lights are on low, the volume is turned down, and there are no advertisements or trailers to sit through before the movie actually begins.
Utilize the Quiet Carriage on Public Transportation
The public transportation in Dubai is impressive. Especially since they started using quiet carriages for people sensitive to noise, sitting in these areas will ensure a quiet and stimulant-free ride to your destination.
Shop During Quiet Hours at Shopping Centers
A few shopping centers in Dubai offer quiet hours for autistic families. Fewer people are allowed inside, which creates a more welcoming experience for anyone who dislikes crowds. The lights are dimmed, and the music is turned down, too.
Dine at a Street Food Market
A street food market is an excellent place to dine with your autistic family. You can all choose the foods that interest you the most from any of the vendors.
Dining at a street food market will make it easier for your autistic child to try new foods and find the ones they like.
Following these tips will ensure your family can enjoy an autism-friendly vacation in Dubai. When I plan and book your trip, I can help ensure every part of your vacation is autism-friendly. I will ask you the appropriate questions to ensure I know what your autistic family needs while away from home. I will then use what I learn to plan every part of your itinerary. Contact me today to see how I make planning autism-friendly vacations simple.
