Photo: Emirates After becoming the world's first airline to provide comprehensive travel coverage with conflict medical protection and announcing it would offer complimentary stays at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai alongside access to over 600 citywide discounts this summer, Emirates has conducted its first-ever Travel Rehearsal program in the Maldives for children with autism and their families.
Emirates Expands Autism-Friendly Travel Programme to Maldives. Photo: EmiratesThe program offers the opportunity to experience the air travel journey before taking an actual flight.
The initiative, held at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Male, is designed to help passengers with accessibility requirements become familiar with airport procedures and the flying experience in a supportive environment. The program aims to reduce travel-related anxiety and build confidence ahead of future journeys.
Emirates Expands Autism-Friendly Travel Programme to Maldives. Photo: EmiratesThe event was organized by Emirates in partnership with Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) and the Inclusive Support Unit of Aminiya School in Male. It marked the first travel rehearsal of its kind at the Maldives' main international gateway.
The event was organized by Emirates in partnership with Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) and the Inclusive Support Unit of Aminiya School in Male. It marked the first travel rehearsal of its kind at the Maldives' main international gateway.
During the program, participating families were guided through key stages of the airport journey, including check-in, security screening, immigration, departure lounges, baggage collection and arrival procedures. Airport and airline staff were on hand throughout the experience to answer questions and provide support.
Jaber Mohamed, Emirates' Country Manager for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, said the airline was proud to introduce the initiative in the island nation.
"We are proud to bring the Travel Rehearsal initiative to the Maldives, helping to alleviate travel anxiety for people with neurodivergence," Mohamed said.
"We have been conducting this program across our network to alleviate travel anxiety faced by people with accessibility requirements by providing a safe and supportive simulation of the journey. We appreciate the support and commitment of MACL and the participation of the Aminiya School to make this rehearsal a success."
Emirates Expands Autism-Friendly Travel Programme to Maldives. Photo: EmiratesHe added: "I would also like to recognise the Emirates Airport Services management and team in the Maldives, who have done outstanding work in pioneering this initiative."
The program forms part of Emirates' wider efforts to make air travel more accessible. The carrier became the world's first Autism-Certified Airline after more than 35,000 cabin crew and ground staff completed specialized autism-awareness training. The training covers autism spectrum conditions, common travel challenges, misconceptions and practical support strategies for passengers with neurodivergent needs.
Since April 2025, Emirates has organized more than 40 travel rehearsals across its global network in partnership with local schools, community organizations, and airport operators.
The airline has already conducted similar programs in destinations across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australasia and the Americas, including Athens, Bali, Barcelona, Brussels, Christchurch, Delhi, Dublin, Edinburgh, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Madrid, Milan, Orlando, Paris, Rome, Stockholm, Sydney, Toronto and Vienna, as well as at its hub in Dubai.
By expanding the Travel Rehearsal program to the Maldives, Emirates continues its efforts to make flying more inclusive and accessible for travellers with autism and other accessibility requirements.