Dubai: If you have a child who falls on the Autistic spectrum and have found it challenging to find suitable places for him or her to visit, a new ‘Autism-Friendly Certificate’ (AFC) might help you find the right spots for an outdoor family trip.
Three facilities in Dubai have just received an Autism-Friendly Certificate from the Dubai Autism Centre, recognising the places as safe and autism-friendly environments.
What is the Autism-Friendly Certificate (AFC)?
Dubai Autism Centre (DAC) launched the Autism-Friendly programme in September this year, aimed at certifying organisations in the public and private sectors and encouraging the community to embrace higher accessibility standards for individuals with autism.
As part of the programme, an organising committee from DAC worked with the Public Parks and Recreational Facilities Department in Dubai Municipality for four months to train their employees. The certificate was granted after field audits were conducted to review and assess that the criteria for achieving a safe and autism-friendly environment had been met.
According to a statement by DAC, entities that receive the Autism-Friendly Certificate (AFC) are subject to evaluation once a year, in addition to adopting a ‘mystery shopper’ approach, usually represented by people with autism and their families.
Here are the three facilities that are the first in the region to receive the Autism-Friendly certification:
1. Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is Dubai's frame-shaped landmark that overlooks the entire city. It opened to the public in 2018 and the architecture of the building allows you to enjoy 360 degrees views of both old and new Dubai from the Sky Deck.
The ground floor has a museum that tells the story of the development of Dubai, with presentations spanning decades of city development.
Opening hours
Dubai Frame is open all year round, including weekends and public holidays. Visiting hours may vary during Ramadan, holidays and public holidays.
Opening hours are from 9am to 9pm.
Free Tickets for:
• Infant (under 3 years )
• People of Determination and two companions
Admission fees
Adults - Dh50
Children (3-12 years) - Dh20
2. Children’s City
Located in Creek Park, Dubai: Children’s City offers is an educational park offering plenty of amusement facilities. It is a place where children can explore different subjects they study in school. From discovering the secrets of the Earth to learning about human anatomy, this park keeps children engaged while helping them learn.
Tickets:
Children aged two to 15 years pay Dh10 to enter the venue.
Dh15 for anyone above the age of 16 years, and families can buy a pass for two adults and children for Dh40.
Children under two years old can enter free of charge.
People of Determination with two accompanying persons can enter for free.
3. Quranic Park
Dubai's Quranic Park offers wonderful insights into the Quran, enhancing awareness of the Islamic values of peace, love and tolerance. A visit to the park will allow you to discover Islamic history and traditions, from observing plants that have been mentioned in the Quran, to a special area dedicated to Andalusia in Spain.
Timings: 9am to 9m daily.
Location: D54, Al Warqa Road, Al Khawaneej, Dubai
While general admission is free, you would need to pay a ticket price of Dh5 to visit any of the specific attractions within the park.
