In a groundbreaking move, Dubai has made its public beaches autism-friendly. The Dubai Municipality announced that these beaches have received certification as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) from the International Board of Certification and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This achievement marks a significant milestone, making Dubai the first city in the world to offer such inclusive facilities.
A Vision for Inclusivity
The announcement came during Dubai Municipality’s participation in the AccessAbilities Expo 2024. This event aims to empower people of determination and address their needs. The new certification confirms that Dubai’s public beaches are equipped with specialized facilities for individuals with autism. Thus, this initiative aligns perfectly with the leadership’s vision of making Dubai the best city for everyone to live in and visit.
Enhancing Visitor Experience
Ibrahim Mohammad Juma, Director of the Public Beaches and Water Canals Department at Dubai Municipality, expressed pride in this accomplishment. He stated, “We are delighted that Dubai Municipality’s public beaches receive the Certified Autism Center certificate, the first of its kind in the region and the world.” This achievement reflects the Municipality’s commitment to enhancing the city’s status as a leading tourist destination.
Moreover, Juma emphasized the importance of continuing to provide a safe environment. Residents and visitors will have the best opportunities to enjoy unique experiences at the beaches. All recreational facilities adhere to the highest international standards.
Accessible Facilities for All
Myron Pincombe, CEO and Board Chairman of the International Council for Accreditation Standards and Continuing Education, commended the collaboration with Dubai Beaches. He remarked, “We are excited to work with Dubai Beaches to become the first public beaches in the world to achieve accreditation.” This partnership ensures that all public beaches are accessible to everyone. Additionally, visitors can utilize the Accessibility App to review accommodations available at Dubai’s beaches.
The app allows users to choose the best beach based on their specific needs. This feature is particularly beneficial for families and individuals with autism.
Commitment to Training and Standards
The Certified Autism Center (CAC) certificate also acknowledges Dubai Municipality’s role in providing educational programs for its staff. The Municipality’s commitment to world-class standards is evident in its approach to inclusivity. As a result, it has established a safe and welcoming environment for all beachgoers. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote inclusivity in Dubai’s public facilities.
In essence, the Municipality is dedicated to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the beauty of Dubai’s public beaches. The focus on quality and accessibility enhances the overall visitor experience.
Future Initiatives: Sustainability and Community Impact
In a related development, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has joined forces with the Sport Impact Summit (SIS). This summit will take place at Atlantis, The Palm, on December 4th and 5th, 2024. The SIS aims to leverage the transformative power of sports to promote sustainability and economic growth.
This collaboration represents a crucial step towards creating lasting social and environmental impact. Furthermore, it positions Dubai as a leader in innovative, community-driven solutions.
In summary, Dubai’s commitment to creating autism-friendly beaches showcases the emirate’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. As Dubai continues to set new standards, it demonstrates that every visitor deserves a welcoming and supportive environment. This initiative not only enhances the experience for individuals with autism but also establishes Dubai as a global leader in inclusive tourism.