McDonald’s UAE becomes first quick-service restaurant to receive autism-friendly certification
McDonald’s UAE has received an Autism-Friendly certificate from the Dubai Autism Center, becoming the first quick-service restaurant in the UAE to receive the accreditation.
The first phase of the initiative covers 15 McDonald’s restaurants across Dubai, where employees have undergone specialised training to better support autistic customers and their families.
The initiative follows feedback from families who had asked whether McDonald’s restaurants could accommodate the needs of children with autism and whether staff were trained to provide appropriate support.
As part of the programme, participating restaurants will offer dedicated Autism-Friendly Kits containing sensory tools designed to help guests with different sensory needs feel more comfortable during their visits.
Staff training and sensory support
The specialised training aims to improve employees’ understanding of autism spectrum disorder, raise awareness of sensory and communication needs, and equip restaurant teams with practical approaches to assist autistic guests and their families.
Walid Fakih, CEO of McDonald’s UAE, said feedback from families had encouraged the company to explore ways to make its restaurants more welcoming and comfortable.
He said the partnership with the Dubai Autism Center had helped translate those concerns into action through employee training and the introduction of autism-friendly facilities at 15 locations.
Fakih added that the company plans to gradually extend the initiative to more restaurants across other emirates, allowing additional families to access a more inclusive dining experience.
Dubai Autism Center highlights inclusive services
Mohammed Al Emadi, CEO and board member of the Dubai Autism Center, said private-sector participation plays an important role in creating inclusive environments and supporting the integration of People of Determination into society.
He welcomed McDonald’s UAE’s initiative, highlighting its commitment to specialised employee training and sensory accessibility.
Al Emadi said the partnership sets an example for other businesses seeking to improve accessibility and deliver more inclusive customer services.
The initiative reflects efforts by McDonald’s UAE and the Dubai Autism Center to respond to families’ needs and make dining experiences more accessible for autistic individuals.
