Dubai Health Dental Hospital’s Pediatric Dentistry Clinic has made history by becoming the first healthcare facility in Dubai to receive the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation. This achievement highlights the clinic’s commitment to providing inclusive care for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals.
The CAC status, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), recognizes organizations that have made significant efforts to serve autistic patients by training staff to understand and address their unique needs. As part of this certification, 80% of the clinic’s patient-facing staff have completed specialized training in autism and sensory awareness.
This milestone also supports Dubai’s broader goal of becoming the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. Led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this city-wide initiative seeks to create a welcoming environment for autistic individuals, with certified accommodations, recreational spaces, and healthcare facilities.
Dr. Anas AlSalami, Program Director at Dubai Health Dental Hospital, expressed pride in the clinic’s achievement. “We are honored to be the first healthcare facility in Dubai to achieve the Certified Autism Center™ designation,” he said. “This milestone reinforces our ‘Patient First’ promise and shows our dedication to serving the community with empathy and excellence. By equipping our team with the skills to meet the specific needs of autistic children, we aim to provide the highest standard of care tailored to each child’s requirements.”
Autistic individuals often face increased challenges in healthcare settings, including communication barriers and sensory sensitivities, which can make medical visits stressful. Traditional hospitals may not always be equipped to accommodate these needs, leading to difficulties for families seeking care. To address this, IBCCES provides specialized training for medical professionals to ensure they can offer compassionate, inclusive care for autistic and sensory-sensitive patients.
The Pediatric Dentistry Clinic at Dubai Health Dental Hospital has created an environment that prioritizes comfort for autistic patients. The clinic features sensory-friendly elements such as calming lighting, soothing music, and quiet areas designed to reduce sensory overload. Dental professionals use gentle techniques, clear communication, and tailored treatment plans to alleviate anxiety. Additionally, the clinic offers extended appointment durations with breaks and employs visual aids and social stories to engage and comfort young patients.
Myron Pincomb, CEO and Board Chairman of IBCCES, praised the clinic’s commitment to inclusivity. “Dubai Health Dental Hospital’s Pediatric Dentistry Clinic is a trailblazer in making healthcare more accessible for autistic individuals,” he said.
“Their efforts align with Dubai’s vision to create a city that is welcoming to all. We hope this accomplishment will inspire other healthcare providers to adopt similar practices.”
This achievement not only marks a significant step forward in providing specialized dental care but also reinforces Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global leader in supporting individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities.
