Dubai is at the forefront of making the country one of the most accessible places globally. This initiative is why the Accessibility App, launched in October at the AccessAbilities Expo in Dubai, is perfectly aligned with the city's goals. Inspired by a similar app in North America that assists people of determination (POD) in navigating daily life by highlighting accessible locations, routes, and facilities, the Accessibility App simplifies travel and daily living.
The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and the Department of Economy and Tourism collaborated on this project, which took about two years to come to fruition, as explained by Myron Pincomb, CEO and board chairman of IBCCES.
In an interview with Khaleej Times, Pincomb detailed the app's functionalities, availability, and how businesses can join the program. The app offers various tools for POD, aiding them in better navigating life. Currently, around 860 hotels and 60 attractions, including airports, beaches, and municipalities, are part of the program. These establishments are trained and certified to accommodate guests with autism and other sensory needs.
The app serves as a communication tool for the POD community, showcasing what's available. For instance, on the home screen, users can find a directory with 10 buttons. When in Dubai, the app displays all certified locations, with nearly 200 listed. Selecting a place like the Burj Khalifa provides standard information like hours of operation, along with specific accommodations for people of determination, such as Braille menus or sensory guides.
Specialized features include an autism and sensory button to filter companies with autism training, a closed loop hearing system button for locations equipped with this technology, and translation capabilities in over 133 languages. For those with mobility issues, the app can map out paths based on the type of wheelchair or mobility device. Additionally, a tool for people with low vision connects users with live assistance via video.
Recognizing the employment challenges faced by the POD community, the app also lists job opportunities targeted towards them, with nearly 1,500 jobs currently available in Dubai. The app, initially launched in Dubai, is set to expand across the GCC, with new features and partnerships being added regularly.
Businesses interested in being listed can contact the IBCCES team to set up a training and certification program. The training, delivered online and in multiple languages, is tailored to the specific business and position, ensuring it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The app is free and available on both the Apple Store and Android store.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
