Dubai’s Autism friendly public beaches earn a global recognition: Here’s what you need to know about

Published on October 13, 2024

By: Paramita Sarkar

Image generated with Ai

Dubai has achieved a groundbreaking milestone with its public beaches being recognized as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) by the International Board of Certification and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

This makes Dubai the first city in the region and the world to earn this certification for its public beaches, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity.

The announcement came during Dubai Municipality’s participation in the AccessAbilities Expo 2024, an event dedicated to empowering people of determination and ensuring they have access to dignified lives.

This accomplishment aligns with the leadership’s vision to make Dubai the best city in the world to live and visit.

Dubai’s public beaches have been equipped with facilities designed to be autism-friendly, providing a safe and inclusive environment for all visitors.

The certification reflects the municipality’s ongoing dedication to delivering comprehensive services that cater to the needs of all community members, including individuals with autism.

Ibrahim Mohammad Juma, Director of Public Beaches and Water Canals Department at Dubai Municipality, expressed pride in the achievement, saying, “The Municipality has always focused on launching innovative initiatives to meet the diverse needs of society.

We are thrilled that Dubai’s public beaches have received the Certified Autism Center certificate, a first in the region and globally.”

He further emphasized that this recognition strengthens Dubai’s position as a leading tourist destination and reflects the city’s commitment to providing exceptional, safe recreational experiences for both residents and visitors.

Myron Pincombe, CEO and Chairman of the International Council for Accreditation Standards and Continuing Education, commended Dubai for its forward-thinking approach, stating, “We are excited to work with Dubai to make its beaches the first in the world to achieve CAC accreditation.

The leadership at Dubai Municipality has been crucial in ensuring public beaches are accessible to everyone, and visitors can now review all available accommodations on the Accessibility App.”

Dubai Municipality earned the CAC certificate for its pioneering efforts in providing educational programs, staff training, and adopting international standards.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote inclusiveness across Dubai’s public facilities, ensuring the comfort and enjoyment of all beach-goers.