Emirates, the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline, has introduced its Travel Rehearsal programme in Ghana as part of efforts to make air travel more accessible, inclusive, and less stressful for passengers with neurodivergent conditions.
The initiative offers a step-by-step simulation of the full airport journey, helping participants become familiar with travel procedures before flying. The experience covers check-in, where participants are issued mock boarding passes, followed by immigration, security screening, and time in the airport lounge. It concludes with a guided arrival process, including customs and baggage reclaim.
In Ghana, the programme was delivered in partnership with the HopeSetters Autism Centre, which brought students on the autism spectrum and their guardians to the Accra International Airport for the exercise earlier in March. The Emirates Airport Services team led the planning, engaging the centre and coordinating with airport stakeholders to ensure every stage of the journey was accessible and carefully structured.
Emirates Country Manager for Ghana, Salem Almana, said the initiative goes beyond travel facilitation.
“This initiative is about more than travel. It is about building confidence, creating opportunities, and ensuring that every individual feels welcomed, respected, and supported throughout their journey,” he said.
He added that Emirates remains committed to expanding inclusive travel initiatives across Accra, Africa, and globally, while praising partners at the Accra International Airport and the HopeSetters Autism Centre for their collaboration. He also commended Emirates Airport Services staff in Ghana for leading what he described as a pioneering initiative in West Africa aimed at breaking stereotypes and improving understanding of autism in travel environments.
Executive Director of HopeSetters Autism Centre, Mrs Bridget Jewell Baaba Enchill, described the programme as a meaningful step toward inclusive travel.
She said the rehearsal helps reduce anxiety by allowing participants to experience airport procedures in advance, giving them greater confidence and independence when travelling. She also expressed appreciation to Emirates and its partners for what she called a thoughtful and empowering experience for the students.
Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, also welcomed the initiative, noting that the airport authority was pleased to provide world-class facilities for the programme.
She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable and accessible travel experience for all categories of passengers.
Emirates achieved Autism-Certified Airline status in 2025 after more than 35,000 cabin crew and ground staff completed specialised autism awareness training. The training equips staff with knowledge about the autism spectrum, common travel challenges, and practical ways to support individual passenger needs.
The Accra rollout marks the fourth implementation of the Travel Rehearsal programme in Africa, following earlier editions in Durban, Harare, and Luanda.
Since April 2025, Emirates Airport Services teams have organised 40 such rehearsals across global airports, including major hubs in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas, as part of its wider push for inclusive aviation.