dnata has rolled out a significant upgrade to its accessibility services at Dubai International Airport (DXB), adding new ambulifts, customised mobility buggies, and battery-operated wheelchairs, alongside trials of autonomous wheelchair technology. The move is designed to smooth the journey for the roughly 2 million passengers who request accessibility support at DXB each year.
The enhancements were showcased at the AccessAbilities Expo 2026, underscoring Dubai's broader inclusivity ambitions. Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata, said: "At dnata, we are supporting that vision by investing in the people, equipment, and technology that make airport journeys more accessible."
New equipment and training
The upgraded ambulifts feature improved safety and comfort, while 24 new accessibility buggies cater to a wider range of passenger needs. dnata has also introduced stackable battery-operated wheelchairs, which optimise storage space and facilitate smoother transfers between terminals and aircraft.
Beyond hardware, dnata has invested heavily in staff capability. More than 3,500 team members have completed hidden disability training, and the company has launched Signature Service Style training to enhance customer care. These programmes aim to equip ground staff with the skills to assist passengers with non-visible conditions, such as autism or dementia, as well as those with mobility challenges.
The company's Accessible Travel department, formerly known as Special Handling, has been rebranded to reflect a more equitable approach to travel. The renaming is part of a broader programme to ensure barrier-free journeys, supported by collaborations with airlines, service providers, and government stakeholders through the oneDXB community.
Dubai International remains one of the world's busiest airports for international passenger traffic, and dnata's investment in accessibility aligns with the emirate's goal of becoming a leading accessible tourism destination. The upgrades also complement recent moves by other travel players to improve inclusivity, such as Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines refreshing their international Suites dining to cater to diverse dietary needs.
dnata's commitment to accessibility is part of a wider investment in its UAE ground operations. Earlier this year, the company committed AED 175 million to expand its ground fleet with AI safety technology, a move that also enhances the reliability of services for passengers with reduced mobility.
The new equipment and training are expected to reduce wait times and improve the overall experience for passengers requiring assistance, a critical factor as DXB continues to handle record numbers of travellers. With the global travel industry increasingly focused on inclusive tourism, dnata's initiatives set a benchmark for other ground handlers and airports.
Travel agents and tour operators should note that dnata's enhanced services are available to all airlines operating at DXB, meaning clients with accessibility needs can expect a more seamless journey through the hub. The company's collaboration with the oneDXB community ensures that accessibility is addressed across the entire airport ecosystem, from check-in to boarding.
As the industry moves towards more inclusive travel, dnata's investment in both technology and human-centred training positions Dubai as a leader in accessible aviation. The autonomous wheelchair trial, in particular, could pave the way for wider adoption of such technology across other major airports.
