Emirates launches "Travel Rehearsal" program in the Maldives

Emirates, the world’s first "autism-certified" airline, has conducted its inaugural "travel rehearsal" program at Velana International Airport (VIA) in the Maldives.

The "Travel Rehearsal" program is a simulation designed to provide individuals with special needs the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the various stages of air travel. By familiarizing participants with airport procedures and the aircraft cabin environment in advance, the program aims to alleviate travel anxiety and build self-confidence before they embark on an actual journey. This initiative, led by Emirates in collaboration with airport authorities and other key stakeholders, marks the first time such a program has been conducted at Velana International Airport.

Emirates conducted this program in collaboration with Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) and the Inclusive Support Unit of Aminiya School. Under this initiative, children with autism and their families were given the opportunity to experience the travel process at Velana International Airport, spanning from check-in to the departure gates. With the assistance of airport and airline staff, the students and their families completed the check-in, security, and departure lounge procedures. Furthermore, they experienced the immigration process, baggage collection, and "meet and greet" protocols. Throughout these stages, designated officers were on hand to address questions raised by the families.

Jaber Mohamed, Emirates’ Country Manager for the Maldives and Sri Lanka, expressed his pride in introducing the "Travel Rehearsal" initiative to the Maldives, aimed at easing the anxieties neurodivergent individuals may face during travel. He noted that this program is conducted across Emirates' global network to provide a safe and supportive flight simulation for those with special needs. Furthermore, he extended his gratitude to the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) for their cooperation and Aminiya School for their participation in ensuring the event's success. He also commended the management and staff of Emirates Airport Services for their significant efforts in launching this initiative in the Maldives.

An Inclusive Transportation System for All Emirates has become the world’s first "Autism-Certified" airline after more than 35,000 cabin crew and ground staff completed specialized training on autism. This training program provides employees with in-depth knowledge of the autism spectrum, addresses common misconceptions, and highlights the challenges faced during travel. It also equips staff with the protocols necessary to provide tailored assistance based on the specific needs of each passenger. Since April 2025, Emirates’ airport services teams have conducted more than 40 "travel rehearsals" across various airports in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australasia, and the Americas, in addition to their primary hub in Dubai.

To date, these rehearsals have been conducted in cities including Accra, Antananarivo, Athens, Bali, Barcelona, Bologna, Brussels, Christchurch, Da Nang, Delhi, Dubai, Dublin, Durban, Düsseldorf, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guangzhou, Harare, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Madrid, Milan, Newcastle, Nice, Orlando, Oslo, Paris, Peshawar, Port Louis, Rome, Stansted, Stockholm, Sydney, Toronto, Venice, Vienna, Warsaw, and Zambia. These activities were carried out in collaboration with local organizations, schools, and airport teams in the respective cities.