Emirates Park Zoo & Resort has been officially designated as a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), marking a significant milestone in its commitment to accessibility and inclusive visitor experiences.
The Certified Autism Center™ designation is awarded to organisations that meet rigorous international standards, including comprehensive staff training in autism and sensory awareness, an onsite facility assessment, and a long-term commitment to improving accessibility. The recognition reinforces Emirates Park Zoo & Resort’s mission to create a sensory-inclusive environment where visitors of all abilities feel welcomed, supported, and engaged.
As part of this initiative, nearly 80 per cent of the zoo’s team has completed specialised IBCCES training, enabling staff to better understand sensory sensitivities, communicate effectively, and provide informed support to autistic visitors and individuals with sensory processing differences. Trained team members are positioned across guest services, education, and animal care, ensuring consistent assistance throughout the visitor journey.
“We believe that every visitor deserves to feel welcomed, valued, and supported,” said Dr. Walid Shaaban, CEO of Emirates Park Zoo & Resort. “Becoming a Certified Autism Center™ reflects our dedication to accessibility and inclusive experiences, guided by our values of learning, care, excellence, conservation, sustainability, and innovation.”
A key element of the zoo’s sensory-inclusive approach is its calm, guided animal interactions, which are designed to support emotional regulation and reduce sensory stress. Carefully structured animal presentations allow visitors to engage at their own comfort level, whether through observation or gentle interaction. Designated quiet zones and sensory-friendly spaces are also available, offering visitors peaceful areas to pause and regulate before continuing their experience.
The CAC designation further strengthens the zoo’s role as an educational destination for schools. With more than 300 schools visiting annually, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort offers curriculum-aligned programmes adapted for diverse learning needs, including autistic students and People of Determination. Sensory considerations are integrated into activities, and dietary-sensitive meal options such as gluten-free and healthy meal boxes are provided to ensure inclusive participation.
Animal-assisted experiences play an important role in emotional well-being. Guided interactions with animals such as horses, giraffes, parrots, elephants, reptiles, and birds are designed to promote calmness, confidence, and communication, while adhering to strict animal welfare and ethical standards. Each interaction is carefully matched to a visitor’s sensory profile, developmental needs, and comfort level.
The zoo also places strong emphasis on cultural sensitivity, offering flexible interaction styles that respect family preferences common across the UAE’s diverse population. Options range from observation-only experiences to structured interactions in controlled environments with regulated noise, lighting, and crowd levels.
As a Certified Autism Center™, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort remains committed to continuous improvement through ongoing staff training, facility enhancements, and expanded accessibility resources. By combining animal-supported experiences, sensory-aware design, and professional care, the zoo continues to provide a safe, meaningful, and empowering environment for all visitors.
