Emirates Launches First-Ever Travel Rehearsal Programme in the Maldives to Support Accessible Aviation
Air travel can be an overwhelming experience, especially for passengers with neurodivergent conditions or specific accessibility requirements. To help bridge this gap, Emirates has officially introduced its ground-breaking Emirates Travel Rehearsal Programme Maldives at Velana International Airport (MLE).
This initiative gives individuals with hidden disabilities a complete, stress-free trial run of the entire airport journey before they ever board an actual flight. By guiding participants through a realistic simulation, the airline aims to significantly reduce pre-flight anxiety, demystify terminal procedures, and build long-term travel confidence.
For real-time updates on global aviation initiatives, corporate travel strategies, and hospitality trends, explore Tourism Business Daily.
A Successful Trial Run at Velana International Airport
The inaugural rehearsal was successfully executed through a collaborative partnership between Emirates, the Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL), and the Inclusive Support Unit of Aminiya School in Male.
During the simulation, children on the autism spectrum and their families were given a guided, step-by-step walkthrough of standard airport operations. Dedicated airline and airport personnel accompanied the families through every major milestone of a typical departure and arrival, including:
- Check-in & Document Verification: Practicing the queueing and ticketing process.
- Security Screening: Becoming familiar with the sights and sounds of checkpoints.
- Immigration & Departure Lounges: Navigating passport control and terminal waiting areas.
- Baggage Claim & Arrival Services: Managing the final leg of a flight layout.
Throughout the exercise, specially trained officers were on hand to answer questions, handle sensory concerns, and provide personalized support.
Strengthening Emirates’ Global Commitment to Accessible Travel
Jaber Mohamed, Emirates’ Country Manager for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, expressed pride in bringing the initiative to Maldivian shores. He emphasized that the program is a vital tool in mitigating travel-induced stress for neurodivergent passengers, offering heartfelt thanks to MACL, Aminiya School, and the Emirates Airport Services teams for making it a success.
This launch is part of a much larger, pioneering movement within the aviation industry. Emirates previously made history by becoming the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline. This milestone was achieved after more than 35,000 cabin crew members and ground staff successfully completed rigorous, specialized autism awareness training, enabling them to recognize and cater to individual sensory and behavioral needs.
From Dubai to Male: A Rapid Global Expansion
The rollout in Male is part of a massive global network expansion. Since April 2025, Emirates has conducted more than 40 travel rehearsals worldwide, partnering closely with local schools, disability advocacy groups, and international airport authorities.
The program has already left a profound impact across major hubs spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Middle East.
| Region | Participating Hubs |
| Americas & Europe | Toronto, London, Barcelona, Athens, Rome, Paris |
| Asia & Australasia | Delhi, Hong Kong, Sydney, Male (MLE) |
| Middle East & Africa | Dubai |
By continually adding destinations like the Maldives to this itinerary, Emirates is establishing a more compassionate, predictable, and supportive global travel ecosystem.
Designing a More Inclusive Travel Landscape
The expansion of the Emirates Travel Rehearsal Programme highlights a growing industry trend toward universal design and accessible tourism. Providing practical, real-world simulations ensures that families who previously felt restricted by the complexities of flying can now look forward to exploring the world together.
Are you looking to make your own travel business or tour operations more inclusive? Read our comprehensive guide on how to implement accessible tourism best practices to learn about sensory-friendly environments and staff training.
