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Atlantis Dubai resorts earn Certified Autism Center designation

Atlantis Dubai resorts earn Certified Autism Center designation

Certification reflects brand's commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests with diverse needs

Following the successful certification of Atlantis Aquaventure in 2023, Atlantis Dubai's resorts – Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal – have also earned the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). 

This certification reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests with diverse needs and ensuring an inclusive environment.

IBCCES awards the CAC designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to better understand and assist autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and other persons of determination. 

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This designation ensures that at least 80% (an IBCCES minimum requirement) of colleagues are trained in autism and sensory awareness and are fully equipped to provide service to people on the autism spectrum.

In collaboration with IBCCES, Atlantis Dubai staff underwent extensive training to understand the range of potential guest needs. More than 90% of guest-facing colleagues across both resorts took training in Autism & Sensory Awareness (ASA). In addition, the Learning & Development team developed a Weekly Briefing Topic on Autism and Sensory Awareness, which an additional 1,500 colleagues completed across Atlantis Dubai. 

By completing the CAC programme, Atlantis Dubai is helping to lead the way as part of a broader Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) initiative for Dubai to become the first Certified Autism Destination (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. 

In just one year, the city has already reached the halfway point, and this significant milestone, achieved under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underscores Dubai's dedication to inclusivity and accessibility for all travellers. 

Atlantis Dubai director of Marine Animal Operations and Sustainability Kelly Timmins said: "We are incredibly proud to become the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to earn the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation. Partnering with IBCCES is part of our long-term Corporate Social Responsibility strategy under the Atlantis Atlas Project, with initiatives focused on supporting people and the planet on our journey to becoming a sustainable tourism business. We look forward to welcoming all guests to Atlantis Dubai for an enjoyable and memorable experience."

SPECIAL OFFER: During World Autism Month this April, Atlantis Dubai invites people of determination to participate in the destination’s complimentary access programme for Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Two complimentary tickets to Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium are available for a person of determination and one caregiver by presenting a valid ID Card at the ticketing plaza. Two accompanying guests will also receive 50% off admission tickets.

For more information, visit www.atlantis.com/dubai/about/accessibility. To partner with Atlantis Dubai, email sales@atlantisdubai.com or groupsales@atlantisdubai.com


How Atlantis Dubai is supporting guests with disabilities

  • The Atlantis Dubai website hosts an accessibility tab that provides guests with downloadable sensory guides. Outlined for rooms and restaurants at Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, as well as experiences across Atlantis Aquaventure, these guides provide a sensory rating, allowing people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to pre-plan their visit to the destination.  
  • Allocated quiet zones are available across both resorts in case people need a moment of respite from sensory stimulation. Locations include the concierge lounge, outdoor cabanas, Imperial Club lounge, and the Explorers Club underwater theatre at Atlantis, The Palm, and the Royal Club lounge, outdoor cabanas, Royal Majlis banquet lounge and the Explorers Club lounge at Atlantis The Royal.
  • Ahead of their visit, guests can also make special requests regarding their specific needs via a form on the Atlantis Dubai website at www.atlantis.com/dubai/about/accessibility.

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