Emirates launches Travel Rehearsal programme in Denpasar

International

Initiative supports neurodiverse children with structured airport simulation

Emirates has expanded its Travel Rehearsal programme to Denpasar, introducing the initiative in Bali for the first time. The programme is designed to help neurodiverse children, particularly those with autism, better prepare for the sensory and procedural challenges of air travel.

Denpasar joins a growing list of cities where Emirates has implemented the concept, following earlier rollouts in Dubai, Barcelona, Brisbane, Manila, Madrid and Toronto.

Structured preparation for air travel

The Travel Rehearsal programme simulates the full airport and flight experience in a controlled environment. In Denpasar, 17 participants took part in the session on 18 February at Denpasar International Airport (DPS), including eight children with autism accompanied by guardians, teachers and a parent.

Participants were guided through each stage of the passenger journey, from arrival and check-in to security screening, immigration, boarding, cabin seating, inflight experience and baggage claim. The approach aims to reduce anxiety by familiarising children with procedures and sensory stimuli before an actual trip.

Part of broader accessibility strategy

The initiative forms part of Emirates’ “Accessible Travel for All” framework. First introduced in Dubai in 2024 with 30 families, the programme reflects the airline’s long-term focus on inclusive travel solutions.

According to Emirates, more than 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff have completed specialised training programmes addressing autism awareness, sensory sensitivities and appropriate passenger support mechanisms.

Majid Al Falasi, Emirates Country Manager Indonesia, said:

“Last year, Emirates became the world’s first Autism Certified Airline, demonstrating the airline’s long-term commitment to accessible travel. Through the efforts of Emirates’ Autism Centre and their partners, we were fortunate enough to bring this travel rehearsal to Denpasar and play an active role in enhancing the travel experience for people with accessible travel requirements.”

Multi-agency cooperation at DPS

The Denpasar programme was delivered in cooperation with several local partners, including PT JAS Airport Services, PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia, immigration authorities, quarantine and customs officials, and the regional airport authority.

Al Falasi emphasised the collaborative nature of the initiative:

“This milestone not only reflects Bali’s importance as a global destination, but also Emirates’ commitment to inclusive travel across its network.”

Awareness beyond the airport environment

In addition to operational initiatives, Emirates continues to promote neurodiversity awareness through its inflight entertainment system. The airline highlights curated films, documentaries and audio content aimed at fostering broader understanding of accessibility and inclusion themes.

The Travel Rehearsal programme has become a central component of Emirates’ accessibility strategy, addressing a growing recognition within the aviation industry of the diverse needs of passengers.