Hamad International Airport (DOH), often referred to as Doha Airport, serves passengers travelling with many different airlines. If you or someone in your family is disabled, autistic or has reduced mobility, planning special assistance before travelling can make the airport journey more manageable.

The help you need might include support with long walking distances, navigating the terminal, boarding the aircraft, communicating with staff or managing a connection. Describe your practical requirements clearly so the assistance request reflects your individual needs.

This guide covers special assistance at Doha Airport for departing, arriving and connecting passengers, including considerations for autistic children and families.

How to Request Special Assistance at Doha Airport

Start by contacting the airline operating your flight. Depending on the airline, you may be able to request assistance during booking, through Manage Booking, using an online assistance form or by contacting its customer service team. There is also an app you can use to book airport assistance – PRM assist but I would recommend you also call your airline to decribe your needs in more detail.

Arrange assistance as early as possible and check your airline’s notice period. Booking procedures, deadlines and medical documentation requirements can vary, so there is no single airline policy that applies to everyone travelling through Doha.

Explain what help you need for each stage of your journey from airport assistance in Doha, including:

• Getting through the departure airport.
• Boarding and leaving the aircraft.
• Transferring between flights at Doha.
• Navigating arrivals and reaching the agreed meeting point.
• Travelling with a wheelchair, mobility aid or medical equipment.
• Managing communication or sensory difficulties.

If you booked through a travel agent, ask them to record your requirements and obtain confirmation. For codeshare flights, check which airline actually operates each flight and make sure your assistance requirements have reached that airline.

For an overview of airport assistance you can read up on it in our guide to getting help at the airport.

Airport Facilities and Airline Assistance

Airport accessibility facilities and your individual assistance booking serve different purposes.

Hamad International Airport has facilities designed to support passengers with reduced mobility, including lifts, ramps, moving walkways and a passenger train. These can help with moving around the terminal, but families should still arrange any required personal assistance through their airline.

Your airline should confirm how your assistance will be coordinated with staff on the ground. Ask where you need to report, who will meet you and which parts of the journey the arranged support covers.

You can also check the airport’s official special assistance information before travelling.

Wheelchair Special Assistance at Doha Airport

When requesting wheelchair assistance, explain how far you can walk, whether you can manage stairs and whether you need help reaching your aircraft seat.

Common wheelchair assistance codes include:

These codes distinguish different levels of assistance. Providing an accurate description helps the airline record the appropriate request.

Someone may need wheelchair assistance because of pain, fatigue, dizziness or limited stamina even if they can walk short distances. Explain these limitations rather than simply saying that the passenger can walk.

Learn more in our guide to airline disability and SSR codes or check out the guides dedicated to these specific wheelchair assistance codes:

• WCHC airline code
• WCHR airline code
• WCHS airline code

Where to Go for Assistance Before Departure

Before travelling, ask your airline where to report for Doha Airport assistance and how early to arrive.

At check-in, remind staff that assistance has been arranged and confirm the next step. Ask whether you should wait at the counter, go to a designated meeting point or meet assistance staff elsewhere.

Keep a screenshot or written confirmation of the request. You can also store a backup of assistance bookings and other travel documents in a dedicated Google Drive folder.

If you cannot find the agreed meeting point, ask an airport information desk or your airline’s ground staff to help you locate the correct team.

Special Assistance at Doha Airport for Autistic Passengers

Autistic passengers may need assistance with navigating the airport, understanding procedures, communicating with staff, waiting in queues or coping with unexpected changes.

When contacting your airline, explain what would make the journey more manageable. Examples might include:

• Clear, direct instructions given one step at a time.
• Extra processing time when answering questions.
• Support finding the correct gate.
• Help managing queues or transitions between airport procedures.
• An explanation before screening or physical contact.
• Information about somewhere suitable to take a break.
• A boarding arrangement that suits the passenger’s needs.

Ask which requests can be accommodated and how they will be communicated to airport staff. An autism diagnosis alone does not explain someone’s individual support needs.

If the passenger also needs mobility assistance, record this separately. Support for a non-visible disability and wheelchair assistance may address different parts of the journey.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower at Doha Airport

Hamad International Airport participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. Wearing the Sunflower is a voluntary way to indicate that someone may need additional time, clearer communication or support. The airport’s programme covers arriving, departing and transferring passengers.

A Sunflower lanyard can help communicate that a disability is not immediately visible. It does not replace an assistance booking or guarantee priority access, so continue to explain any specific help you need.

Read our Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard guide for more information.

Passangers travelling through Hamad International Airport can collect a Sunflower Lanyard at the information desks at airport check-in and in the transfer area.

The Muzn Lounge Sensory Room

Hamad International Airport has a sensory room known as the Muzn Lounge. It is designed to provide a calmer environment for passengers with hidden or non-visible disabilities.

If this facility would help your family, ask the airport about its current location, access arrangements, opening hours and any booking requirements before travelling. Check whether you can reach it during your particular departure or connection.

Avoid promising your child that you will definitely use the room until access has been confirmed. Keep familiar sensory aids in hand luggage so you have support available elsewhere in the terminal.

Locating the Muzn Lounge Sensory Room at Doha Airport

The Muzn Lounge at Hamad International Airport can be found at Concourse C between Gates C7 and C9. You can use the interactive airport map to locate the sensory room at Doha Airport.

You can find out more about the Muzn Lounge on the Hamad International Airport website.

Preparing an Autistic Child for Doha Airport

Preparation can make an unfamiliar airport feel more predictable.

• Show your child photographs of the airport and aircraft.
• Explain whether you are departing from Doha, arriving there or changing flights.
• Use a simple visual schedule for the stages of the journey.
• Explain that there may be a wait for assistance staff.
• Keep ear defenders, headphones, sunglasses, communication aids and comfort items accessible.
• Carry familiar snacks where permitted.
• Plan time for toilet visits, food and movement breaks.
• Explain that gates and timings can change.

Consider how your child responds to boarding. Boarding early may give them time to settle before the cabin becomes busy, while boarding later may reduce time spent waiting on the aircraft. Discuss your preference with the airline and check what is possible.

For wider trip preparation, see our Qatar with autistic children travel guide.

Assistance for Blind and Visually Impaired Passengers

If you need support navigating Doha Airport, describe this when booking assistance with your airline.

Explain whether you need guidance through airport procedures, help locating facilities, support reaching the gate or assistance boarding the aircraft.

Tell staff how you prefer to be guided and whether you use a cane or another aid. Ask them to explain changes in direction, steps and obstacles clearly.

If you travel with an assistance dog, check the operating airline’s acceptance rules and the requirements for your destination and any transit arrangements well before departure.

Assistance for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Passengers

Tell your airline what communication support you need and how you prefer staff to communicate with you.

You might ask for important information to be written down, for staff to face you when speaking or for an individual notification if the gate changes.

Monitor flight information screens as well as announcements. If you are waiting for assistance, make sure staff know how to contact you without relying solely on a spoken announcement.

Connecting Through Doha With Special Assistance

If you are changing flights at Doha, make sure assistance is recorded for the connection as well as your departure and final arrival.

Ask your airline:

• Where assistance staff will meet you after landing.
• Whether support will continue to your onward gate.
• Whether you can use your own mobility aid during the connection.
• What happens if your inbound flight is delayed.
• How you can take a toilet, food or sensory break.
• Whether your travelling companions can remain with you.

If different airlines operate your flights, confirm the arrangements with each airline. Explain whether the flights are on one booking or separate tickets and ask how the transfer will work.

Choose a connection time that allows for your family’s needs. A connection that is technically bookable may still feel rushed when you need assistance, extra transition time or breaks.

A longer connection can provide flexibility, but a very long wait may bring its own challenges. Consider your child’s tolerance for waiting alongside the practical transfer arrangements.

Security and Passport Control

Explain communication, sensory or mobility requirements before screening begins where possible.

You might tell staff that the passenger needs extra processing time, cannot stand for long, uses a communication aid or becomes distressed by unexpected physical contact. Ask staff to explain what will happen next.

Assistance does not mean that every queue can be avoided. Plan for some waiting and keep essential documents, medication and sensory aids easy to reach.

Whether you need to pass through immigration depends on your itinerary and whether you enter Qatar. Check this before travelling, especially if you plan to leave the airport during a connection.

Do You Need a MEDIF or Medical Certificate?

Medical documentation requirements should be checked with the airline operating your flight.

A MEDIF is a Medical Information Form used by some airlines when they need further information or medical clearance. Travelling through Doha does not, by itself, establish that you need one.

Ask your airline whether your circumstances require a MEDIF, fit-to-fly certificate or other documentation, who must complete it and when it must be submitted.

Do this early enough to obtain any required documents. If several airlines operate your journey, check each airline’s requirements.

If you are travelling as a medical case passsnger you should learn more about the MEDA airline code.

Travelling With Medication and Medical Equipment

Contact your airline before travel if you need to carry or use medical equipment, particularly battery-powered devices or equipment needed during the flight. You may also find it beneficial to travel with a doctors letter that explains what your medication is and why you need it. Our guide to medication letters breaks down what to include on it and details some countries that require a more detailed letter.

Ask about approval requirements, supporting documents and any separate medical baggage arrangements. You can learn more about medical baggage in our guide.

Keep essential medication and equipment accessible during the journey, following the relevant security and airline requirements. Prepare for a delayed connection by carrying sufficient essential supplies where permitted.

Arriving at Doha Airport With Airport Assistance

Before departure, confirm what arrival assistance has been arranged and where it will end.

Ask whether support includes leaving the aircraft, navigating arrivals, baggage collection and reaching an agreed meeting point. If you need help beyond that point, plan it separately.

Passengers who need assistance leaving the aircraft may have to wait until staff and equipment are ready. Prepare your child for this possibility and keep comfort items accessible until you have left the aircraft.

If your mobility aid is not returned where expected, speak to the airline’s ground staff before leaving the airport.

If Airport Assistance Does Not Arrive

If you are departing and assistance has not arrived, contact your airline’s check-in or ground staff. If you are connecting, ask transfer staff or an airport information desk to help locate the team responsible for your booking.

Explain your flight number, departure time and immediate needs. If you cannot safely walk to the gate, make that clear.

Ask for a supervisor if the issue remains unresolved. Keep a record of what happened, including timings and any confirmation of your original request, so you can follow it up with the airline or airport afterwards.

Allow Extra Time for Special Assistance at Doha Airport

Follow your airline’s airport arrival guidance and ask whether you should arrive earlier because of your assistance requirements. Allow time for equipment handling, documentation checks and waiting for assistance staff. For autistic children, additional time can also make room for food, toilet visits and breaks.

Before leaving a designated assistance waiting area, tell staff where you are going and check how they will contact you.

What to Confirm About Special Assistance at Doha Airport

• Assistance is recorded for every relevant flight and connection.
• Your practical support needs have been described accurately.
• You know where to report at Doha Airport.
• You know the airline’s recommended arrival time.
• Any medical documentation requirements have been checked.
• Your wheelchair, mobility aid and battery have been approved where required.
• You know where your equipment will be handed over and returned.
• Communication and sensory needs have been recorded.
• You have checked access arrangements for any airport facilities you hope to use.
• You know how arrival assistance will work.
• You have a contact route if assistance is missing or your flight changes.

FAQ About Special Assistance at Doha Airport

Planning a More Manageable Journey Through Doha

The most useful preparation for accessing special assistance at Doha Airport is to describe what your family needs and confirm how that support will work throughout the journey.

Arrange assistance with your operating airline, check the airport facilities at Hamad International Airport that may help and keep any assistance confirmation accessible. A clear plan, familiar comfort items and time for breaks can make travelling through Doha feel more predictable.

Continue Planning Your Middle East Trip With Kids

• If you need an easier introduction to the Middle East, check out Turkey with kids
• For an autism-friendly Middle Eastern trip with kids, learn more about the United Arab Emirates
• For big city exploration in the Middle East, consider visiting Qatar with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your Trip With Autistic Children

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With Our Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Special Assistance at Doha Airport: A Guide for Families appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

The United Arab Emirates has strict medication rules compared to many other destinations. While most everyday medicines are allowed, certain drugs – especially those affecting the central nervous system – are tightly controlled.

If you’re travelling with medication, it’s essential to understand the difference between over-the-counter, prescription, and controlled drugs before you fly.

This guide walks you through exactly what you can bring, how much you can carry, and what paperwork you’ll need.

Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medication

Most over-the-counter medicines are allowed into the UAE for personal use, including:

• Paracetamol and ibuprofen
• Antihistamines
• Basic cold and flu remedies
• Vitamins and supplements

However, this is where people get caught out: some medicines sold OTC in the UK are restricted in the UAE.

Examples to be cautious with include:

• Codeine-containing products
• Strong sleep aids
• Certain decongestants

Limits for Medication in The UAE

• You should only bring a reasonable quantity for personal use
• As a general rule, this means no more than a 3-month supply

What to Bring to The UAE

• Keep everything in original packaging
• Carry a receipt or proof of purchase if possible

If there’s any doubt about an ingredient, check before you travel – it’s not worth guessing.

Prescription Medication

Prescription medication is allowed in the UAE, but you need to be able to prove it’s yours and medically necessary.

What You’ll Need to Bring Prescription Medicine to The UAE

Carry a doctor’s letter that includes:

• Your full name (matching your passport)
• Medication name (brand and generic)
• Dosage and frequency
• The condition it’s prescribed for
• Doctor’s name and contact details

My guide breaks down what to include on a doctors travel letter and includes examples from my previous trips.

Limits for Prescription Medication in The UAE

• You can usually bring up to a 3-month supply of standard prescription medication

Important Tips For Bringing Medication To The UAE

• Always keep medication in your hand luggage
• Keep it in original pharmacy packaging with labels intact
• Avoid mixing pills into organisers when travelling through security

Controlled Medication (Very Important)

This is where UAE rules become much stricter.

Controlled drugs include medications such as:

• ADHD medications (e.g. stimulants)
• Strong painkillers (opioids)
• Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam)
• Some sleep medications

These are regulated by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.

You MUST Get Approval Before Travelling To The United Arab Emirates

If your medication is classified as controlled, you need to apply for permission through the MOHAP online system before you travel.

This is often referred to as a medication import permit.

What You’ll Need to Apply For Prior Approval

• Copy of your prescription
• Doctor’s letter (detailed)
• Passport copy
• Travel details

Limits For Visiting The United Arab Emirates

• Controlled medication is typically limited to a maximum of 30 days’ supply

This is stricter than standard prescriptions, and it is enforced.

What Happens if You Don’t Apply?

If you arrive in the UAE with controlled medication and no approval:

• It may be confiscated
• You could face delays, questioning, or legal issues

This isn’t a “they might let it slide” situation – this is one of the countries where rules are actively enforced.

Checking Your Medication Before You Travel

Before flying to the UAE, you should:

• Check if your medication is controlled via MOHAP
• Confirm ingredients (especially for combination drugs)
• Apply for approval if required
• Print all documents and keep digital copies

If you’re unsure, assume you need to check – don’t rely on what’s allowed in the UK.

Arriving in The United Arab Emirates

At the airport:

• You may be asked to declare medication
• Keep all documentation easily accessible
• Be prepared to explain what each medication is for

Most travellers pass through without issue – but the ones who don’t are usually the ones who didn’t prepare paperwork.

Key Takeaways For Bringing Medication To The UAE

• OTC medication is generally allowed, but check ingredients carefully
• Prescription medication is allowed with a doctor’s letter (up to 3 months’ supply)
• Controlled medication requires pre-approval and is limited to 30 days
• Always carry medication in original packaging with documentation

The UAE is not the place to “hope for the best” when travelling with medication.

If you prepare properly, you’ll have no issues.

If you don’t, this is one of the destinations where it can go wrong quickly.

If you’re travelling with anything like ADHD medication, strong pain relief, or sedatives – check it, document it, and get approval before you go.

Continue Planning Your Trip To The UAE With Kids

• Start with planning your overall United Arab Emirates trip with kids, how to get there, where to go and things to do in The UAE

Continue Planning Your Trip As a Traveller With Medication

• Travelling with ADHD? Begin by reading my guide to travelling with ADHD for tips on travelling with medication, how to stay on top of all the documentation you need and more
• Learn what you should include on your travel letter for medication from your doctor
• Finding it hard to pack all of your medicine or medical equipment? Find out more about flying with medical luggage and if you are entitled to extra (free) luggage allowance
• Check out why you should learn important phrases related to your disability before you travel and download the free eBook with accessible travel translations from my guide
• Learn more about the DPNA code and what it means for travellers with hidden disabilities
• Find out more about the Sunflower Lanyard and how it can support ADHD travellers
• Learn more about getting help at the airport as someone with ADHD and how it can support your travel plans
• Find out how to use the PRM Assist app to book special assistance at the airport

Keep Planning Your Next Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Bringing Medication into the UAE: What You Need to Know appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Travelling through the United Arab Emirates can be much easier when you know where to find the right support. Whether you need wheelchair assistance, hidden disability support, mobility help, a quiet space, or help navigating the airport with an autistic child, many UAE airports offer dedicated services for People of Determination (the UAE’s official term for disabled passengers).

This guide lists the main airports across the UAE, including links to their special assistance, reduced mobility and hidden disability support services where available.

If you are travelling with autism, sensory needs, mobility equipment, a wheelchair, a disability pushchair, or a hidden disability such as anxiety, ADHD or chronic illness, these are the pages you should check before you fly.

What is Airport Special Assistance in the UAE?

Special assistance covers support for passengers who need extra help moving through the airport or boarding their flight.

This can include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Help through check-in, security and passport control
• Priority boarding
• Ambulift boarding for remote stands
• Help with mobility aids or disability pushchairs
• Assistance for hidden disabilities
• Sunflower Lanyard schemes
• Sensory spaces or quiet rooms
• Accessible toilets and changing facilities
• Accessible transport and parking

Most assistance should be requested through your airline at least 48 hours before travel. My guide to getting help at the airport as a disabled person explains exactly what special assistance is and how to get help at the airport when you travel.

UAE Airports Special Assistance Links

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Dubai International is the busiest airport in the UAE and offers extensive support for People of Determination, including visible and non-visible disabilities.

Services include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Priority support from kerb to gate
• Hidden disability support
• Accessible transport and parking
• Accessible toilets, lifts and prayer rooms
• Boarding assistance
• Buggy services
• Special assistance across all terminals

Special assistance page: Dubai Airports Special Assistance

Dubai Airports specifically includes hidden disabilities support and services for non-visible disabilities.

This also covers both DXB and Dubai World Central (DWC / Al Maktoum International below).

Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC)

DWC falls under Dubai Airports and uses the same accessibility and special assistance system as DXB.

Support includes:

• Reduced mobility assistance
• Hidden disability support
• Accessible facilities
• Medical transportation assistance
• Wheelchair services

Special assistance page: DWC Special Assistance via Dubai Airports

Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH)

Previously known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, Zayed International Airport offers one of the strongest hidden disability programmes in the region.

Services include:

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Sensory Space
• Special Assistance desks
• Wheelchair support
• Terminal buggy services
• Accessible taxis
• Priority lanes
• Low-level check-in desks
• Ambulift support
• Accessible parking

Sunflower lanyards are available from Special Assistance desks, and the airport launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme in 2024. If you are new to the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, my guide explains what the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard is and how to get one of your own.

Special assistance page: Zayed International Airport Special Assistance

Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)

Sharjah International Airport provides mobility assistance and accessibility services for passengers requiring extra support.

Typical services include:

• Wheelchair support
• Boarding assistance
• Reduced mobility support
• Accessible facilities

Passengers should usually arrange support through their airline when booking.

Airport assistance information page: Sharjah International Airport Special Assistance

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT)

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport supports passengers requiring mobility assistance and wheelchair services.

Support may include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Boarding help
• PRM support
• Accessible access routes

Special assistance information: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport Special Assitance

The special assistance information for Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is extremely limited on their website – but do check it incase they have updated it. I would recommend using their contact information if you have any questions about special assistance services.

Contact information for Ras Al Khaimah International Airport:

Telephone: +971 7 2075200

Email: info@rakairport.com

Fujairah International Airport (FJR)

Fujairah International Airport offers reduced mobility assistance for passengers who request support in advance.

Typical services include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Boarding support
• Mobility help

Special assistance information: Fujairah International Airport

The special assistance information for Fujairah Airport is on their passenger services page – unfortunately, I cannot actually access the page for some reason but hopefully you can if you need it.

Contact Fujairah International Airport:

Email: info@fia.ae

Telephone: +971 9 2226222

Al Ain International Airport (AAN)

Al Ain International Airport is managed under Abu Dhabi Airports and assistance is typically arranged through airline support.

Airport information: via Abu Dhabi Airports

Which UAE Airport is Best for Hidden Disability Support?

Currently, the strongest hidden disability support is found at:

Zayed International Airport (AUH)

Because it offers:

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Sensory Space
• trained staff
• dedicated hidden disability recognition

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Because it offers:

• dedicated hidden disability support pages
• support for visible and non-visible disabilities
• priority services for neurodivergent travellers

These are usually the easiest UAE airports for autistic families and passengers with non-visible disabilities.

Tips Before You Fly to The UAE with Autistic Children

Request Assistance Early

Always request support through your airline at least 48 hours before departure. You can also add a booking in the PRM Assist app, but I would recommend doing this as a backup only and making contact with the airline as a priority.

Use the Correct Airline Code

If your child is autistic or has non-visible support needs, ask your airline about adding DPNA or the correct assistance code to your booking. My guide breaks down all the disability codes airlines use, and you can learn more about the DPNA code from my post which details what it is, who it is for and how it should be used.

Bring Supporting Documents

This can include:

• fit to fly letters
• medication letters (learn what to include on a doctors letter in my guide)
• proof for mobility equipment
• EpiPen documentation (learn more about flying with EpiPens from my post)
• disability pushchair confirmation (my disability pushchair tag might come in useful)

Ask About Quiet Spaces

Not every airport advertises sensory spaces clearly, so ask directly.

The UAE has made major improvements for accessible travel, especially for People of Determination and travellers with hidden disabilities.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the strongest airports for autism-friendly and hidden disability support, but all major airports can provide reduced mobility assistance when arranged properly.

Free tourist eSIM

Tourists area able to get a free eSIM when visiting the UAE. I have a seperate guide that explains how it works and how to get a free tourist eSIM in the United Arab Emirates.

Planning ahead makes a huge difference.

If your child struggles with crowds, noise, queues or unexpected changes, using airport special assistance can completely change the travel experience.

If you are planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates, my guide to visiting with autistic children is the best place to start.

Continue Planning Your UAE Trip With Kids

• Choose the right emirate based on your child’s needs
• Use indoor attractions to manage heat and overwhelm
• Plan transport to reduce unpredictability
• Build in downtime between activities

For a full list, check out our United Arab Emirates archives.

Continue Planning Your Middle East Trip With Kids

• Start at the beginning, with my guide to visiting the Middle East with autistic children
• If you need an easier introduction to the Middle East, check out Turkey with kids
• For big city exploration in the Middle East, consider visiting Qatar with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your Trip With Autistic Children

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Special Assistance Links For All of The UAE’s Airports appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

If you’re travelling to the United Arab Emirates, there’s a genuinely useful perk most people don’t realise exists – a free tourist eSIM with around 10GB of data valid for 24 hours.

This is one of the easiest ways to get connected as soon as you land, without needing to find WiFi, queue for a SIM card, or worry about roaming charges.

This guide to the free tourist eSIM in the UAE explains exactly how it works, how to get one, and how to set it up.

What is The UAE Free Tourist eSIM?

The UAE offers a free prepaid tourist eSIM (or SIM) to eligible visitors when they arrive in the country. If you are landing in the UAE and need help getting through the airport then my guide with links to special assistance departments of the UAE airports will help.

Typically, this includes:

• Around 10GB of mobile data
• Valid for 24 hours from activation
• Works on local UAE networks
• Designed to get you online immediately after arrival

It’s essentially a “welcome” data package – enough to book taxis, message family, access tickets, and get through your first day without stress.

Who Provides The Free eSIM?

The main provider is:

• Etisalat (also branded as e&)

In some cases, you may also see similar tourist SIM offers from:

• du

However, Etisalat is the most common provider offering the free tourist data package, especially at major airports.

Where do You Get The Free eSIM?

You’ll usually receive it at major UAE airports, including:

• Dubai International Airport
• Zayed International Airport

There are two common ways it’s issued:

At Immigration (Automatic or Offered)

• Some travellers are automatically issued a SIM/eSIM linked to their passport
• Others may be directed to a kiosk immediately after passport control

At Official Telecom Counters

• Etisalat or du kiosks in arrivals halls
• Staff will scan your passport and issue your eSIM or physical SIM

eSIM vs Physical SIM

You may be offered either:

eSIM (most common now):

• Activated via QR code
• No need to insert anything into your phone
• Faster setup

Physical SIM:

• Insert into your phone manually
• Same data allowance

If your phone supports eSIM, it’s worth choosing that — it’s quicker and easier.

How to Set up The eSIM (QR Code Method)

This is the standard method most travellers will use.

Step-By-Step Tourist eSIM Setup:

1. Connect to airport WiFi
2. Open your phone settings
3. Go to:
   • Mobile Data / Cellular
   • Add eSIM / Add Mobile Plan
4. Scan the QR code provided by Etisalat
5. Follow on-screen prompts
6. Set it as your active data line

Once installed:

• Turn on mobile data
• Enable data roaming (yes, even locally — some phones require this)

You should be connected within minutes.

How to Set up The eSIM Without a QR Code

If you don’t want to scan a QR code (or prefer to do it later), you can usually:

Option 1: Manual Entry

• Enter details manually (provided by the network)
  • SM-DP+ address
  • Activation code

Option 2: Online Activation

Using Etisalat:

• Visit their tourist SIM page
• Enter your passport details
• Follow instructions to download and activate the eSIM

This option is useful if:

• You skipped the airport kiosk
• You want to set it up after arrival
• You lost the QR code

Important Things to Know

It’s Only Valid for 24 Hours

This is the biggest limitation.

After 24 hours:

• Data stops working
• You’ll need to buy a full tourist plan to stay connected

You May Need to Show Your Passport

The SIM/eSIM is linked to your identity, so:

• Passport is required for activation
• Details are registered with the network

Not All Phones Support eSIM

Before relying on this:

• Check your phone supports eSIM
• Make sure it’s unlocked

There are two easy ways to check if your phone will accept the free eSIM in the United Arab Emirates.

1. dial *#06# on your keypad and look for an EID number in the results. If an EID is listed, your phone supports eSIM.
2. Enter your phone model on this eSIM compatibility checker and hit enter.

It’s Not Unlimited

Even though 10GB is generous, it’s still limited:

• Streaming or hotspot use can burn through it quickly

What Happens After The Free 24 Hours?

You can easily upgrade to a paid plan with:

• Etisalat
• du

Tourist plans typically include:

• Larger data allowances
• Local minutes
• Validity from a few days to a month

You can upgrade:

• Online
• Through the app
• At airport or mall kiosks

Is it Worth Using?

Yes – and honestly, there’s no reason not to use it.

This free eSIM:

• Gets you online instantly
• Removes the stress of arrival
• Gives you time to decide on a longer-term plan

For families (especially with kids), it’s one of those small things that makes a big difference — no scrambling for WiFi, no delays, just immediate access to everything you need.

Set it up before you leave the airport.

Trying to do it later – especially with tired kids, no data, and no WiFi – is exactly the kind of avoidable stress you don’t need.

Continue Planning Your UAE Trip With Kids

• Choose the right emirate based on your child’s needs
• Use indoor attractions to manage heat and overwhelm
• Plan transport to reduce unpredictability
• Build in downtime between activities

For a full list, check out our United Arab Emirates archives.

Continue Planning Your Middle East Trip With Kids

• Start at the beginning, with my guide to visiting the Middle East with autistic children
• If you need an easier introduction to the Middle East, check out Turkey with kids
• For big city exploration in the Middle East, consider visiting Qatar with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your Trip With Autistic Children

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

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