Guide to barrier-free travel in Dubai

Dubai without barriers – a guide

Travelling is for everyone. Period! That's how I want to start this article, so that each of you remembers that regardless of your health condition (if possible, of course), each of us can travel. The degree of disability cannot be an exclusion. It is a strength, because it is no coincidence that people with disabilities are called ‘people of strong will’ in the United Arab Emirates. As an introduction, Two Continents invites everyone to Dubai and ensures that your holiday will be unforgettable.

But how can you explore Dubai in a wheelchair? Are hotels and attractions in Dubai accessible to people with disabilities and special needs? Yes, and inclusive travel Dubai is the city's most important motto. Read our guide and learn about the attractions in Dubai that are accessible to people with disabilities, find out how the metro and public transport in Dubai work, and discover which disability-friendly beaches you can visit during your holiday. Welcome to Dubai without limitations!

Facilities at airports for people with disabilities

Travel for people with disabilities to Dubai naturally begins at the airport. Dubai International Airport constantly strives to ensure the comfort of its passengers and the highest quality of service. DXB (Dubai International Airport) and DWC (Dubai Al Maktoum Airport) in Dubai are fully equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility. Passengers can take advantage of a special check-in area, free parking for special transport, priority airport assistance, a comfortable lounge and access to airport wheelchairs. In case of difficulty boarding the aircraft, the airports have vehicles available to assist with boarding. In short: people with disabilities can count on full service and care from the staff at Dubai Airport.

Transport for people with disabilities in Dubai

Is public transport in Dubai wheelchair accessible? Yes, wheelchair users and people with other special needs can easily get around the city. People with disabilities do not have to worry about transport in Dubai – they can order adapted taxis or use the metro and bus system. The public infrastructure for people with disabilities in Dubai in terms of public transport works phenomenally well. People with disabilities can use special areas in each carriage of the metro, where there is a designated space for wheelchairs. They can access the station via convenient lifts. The same applies to buses, where the driver unfolds a special ramp for wheelchair users when stopping at a bus stop. For visually impaired people, there are raised markings on the pavements at each metro station. Ticket machines at metro stations are adjusted to the height of each person so that tickets can be purchased independently, without the help of another person.

Dubai attractions accessible to people with disabilities

What is the situation with accessible travel in Dubai? Dubai wants to do as much as possible for people with disabilities. In the United Arab Emirates, they are called ‘people of strong will’ and their hardships and efforts are appreciated. The best the city has to offer must be accessible to everyone, so attractions must be adapted for people with disabilities or special needs. People with disabilities can easily admire Dubai from above by going up the tallest building in the world. The entrance to the Burj Khalifa is located in the Dubai Mall, which is spacious and has ramps and lifts for wheelchair users. The staff will help you bypass the long queue waiting to enter the pleasant viewing terraces. The largest beaches in Dubai have entrances for people with disabilities. Currently, the largest beaches with such facilities are JBR Beach, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Public Beach.

Public parks have special parking spaces for people with disabilities and free wheelchairs, and the staff are trained in Braille, and the guides include a special version for deaf people. Facilities such as Dubai Frame and Dubai Dolphinarium have special infrastructure for people with disabilities, making it easier for them to enjoy the attractions. You can find a full list of the most important attractions in our article Attractions in Dubai accessible to people with disabilities.

Disability-friendly hotels in Dubai

Which hotels in Dubai offer facilities for people with disabilities? The vast majority of hotels in Dubai have special rooms and facilities for people with disabilities. These rooms are equipped with adapted bathrooms, beds and ramps, and the hotel facilities have lifts and flat surfaces. Hotel staff are trained to assist people with disabilities and answer any questions about facilities for people with disabilities. You can find a list of disability-friendly hotels in Dubai here – Hotels for people with disabilities in Dubai guide.

Barrier-free Dubai, or people with disabilities on holiday in Dubai

Dubai is a city open to everyone. Whether you are a person with a disability, have limited mobility or need assistance, you will feel comfortable and safe on holiday in Dubai. For many years, the city has been introducing a system of facilities and adaptations for people with disabilities. Each attraction is designed to be accessible to wheelchair users, and shopping centres and other service establishments are designed to be friendly spaces regardless of how a person moves around. Add Dubai to your wish list and don't worry about any problems! And for better travel planning, read the Dubai guide with a sightseeing plan.

Are there any travel agencies in Dubai offering barrier-free tours?

Barrier-free tourism is growing rapidly in the Middle East. Dubai is within reach for people with limited mobility thanks to a wide range of local travel agencies, including Two Continents, a travel agency with over 10 years of experience in the industry. On our website, you can book attractions in Dubai and find detailed information on how they are adapted for people with disabilities, purchase accommodation in Dubai in private apartments that are adapted for people with reduced mobility, as well as purchase a trip to Dubai and ask our specialists any questions you may have before your trip. We invite you to familiarise yourself with our offer and visit Dubai!

Questions and answers (FAQ):

• Is it possible to travel barrier-free in Dubai?

Barrier-free transport in Dubai is possible for everyone. People with disabilities, mobility impairments or other physical difficulties can easily visit Dubai. Dubai's infrastructure is suitably adapted for this. Public transport, attractions and service establishments are prepared for tourists with varying degrees of disability.

• What attractions in Dubai are accessible to people with disabilities?

All of Dubai's major attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountains, Dubai Frame, Old Dubai and Dubai Marina, are adapted and prepared for visitors with disabilities. The attractions feature specially designed spaces, paths, lifts and handrails.

• Which beaches in Dubai are accessible to people with reduced mobility?

The beaches in Dubai that are accessible to people with limited mobility are mainly Jumeirah Beach, JBR Beach, Kite Beach and Al Mamzar Beach Park, as they offer amenities and facilities such as wheelchair access, showers, toilets and wide paths.