When it comes to air travel, Emirates special assistance stands as a benchmark of compassion, care, and inclusivity. As one of the world’s leading airlines, Emirates ensures that every passenger—regardless of mobility, age, or medical condition—can enjoy a seamless, comfortable journey. In this guide, we explore the extensive range of services provided by Emirates under their Special Assistance Program, helping you prepare confidently for your next flight.
Understanding Emirates Special Assistance Services
Emirates special assistance covers a wide range of support services tailored to the needs of passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, reduced mobility, elderly travelers, pregnant women, and unaccompanied minors. Emirates is fully compliant with international aviation regulations and prioritizes the dignity, independence, and safety of all passengers.
Whether you need wheelchair assistance, oxygen support, or help navigating the airport, Emirates has a comprehensive system in place to accommodate your specific requirements.
Wheelchair and Mobility Assistance
Passengers who have difficulty walking long distances or are unable to walk at all can request wheelchair services at all airports served by Emirates. Here's how the process works:
Pre-booking Required: You must request wheelchair support at least 48 hours before departure via the Emirates website, travel agent, or customer service.
Airport Support: From check-in counters to the boarding gate and even during layovers, trained staff are available to assist.
Types of Wheelchair Services:
WCHR – for passengers who can walk short distances but need assistance at the airport.
WCHS – for those who need help getting to the aircraft and climbing stairs.
WCHC – full assistance from check-in to boarding and deplaning.
Every stage of your journey is carefully managed to maintain your comfort and dignity.
Medical Assistance and Special Equipment
For passengers with medical needs, Emirates special assistance goes above and beyond to ensure medical equipment and treatments can accompany you during the flight.
Medical Clearance: If you’re traveling with certain medical conditions or require in-flight oxygen, you may need to submit a Medical Information Form (MEDIF), to be approved by Emirates’ medical team.
In-flight Oxygen: Emirates offers oxygen cylinders onboard at no cost, but the service must be requested in advance.
Use of Personal Medical Devices: Battery-operated medical devices like CPAP machines are permitted, provided they meet aircraft safety standards. Passengers must provide documentation.
Stretchers and Escort Nurses: Emirates can provide stretchers and allow trained medical escorts onboard with prior arrangement.
Planning medical travel is now safer and simpler with Emirates’ highly personalized care.
Support for Visually and Hearing Impaired Passengers
Emirates is committed to making travel accessible for passengers with sensory disabilities. As part of Emirates special assistance, the following services are available:
Guide Dogs: Certified guide dogs can travel in the cabin on specific routes, in compliance with local regulations.
Braille Menus: Available on select flights, allowing visually impaired passengers to read meal options independently.
Safety Demonstrations: Personalized safety briefings and assistance are provided.
Subtitled In-flight Entertainment: A wide selection of movies and shows includes subtitles for the hearing impaired.
Passengers are encouraged to notify Emirates in advance to ensure every detail is prepared ahead of their journey.
Assistance for Elderly Passengers and Pregnant Travelers
Special care is available for elderly passengers and expectant mothers. Emirates takes proactive steps to make sure their journey is both enjoyable and secure.
Priority Boarding and Seating: Elderly passengers receive early boarding and can request seats with extra legroom or near lavatories.
Onboard Support: Cabin crew are trained to assist with mobility, medications, and mealtime support.
Pregnancy Guidelines:
Expectant mothers under 29 weeks can fly without medical clearance.
From 29 to 36 weeks, a medical certificate is required.
Travel is not permitted beyond 36 weeks of pregnancy for single births (32 weeks for multiples).
Hydration and Comfort: Emirates offers extra support to ensure hydration, reduced swelling, and overall comfort during long-haul flights.
Travel Assistance for Unaccompanied Minors
Another key aspect of Emirates special assistance is the exceptional care offered to children traveling alone, known as the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service.
Age Group: Children aged 5 to 15 years traveling alone must register for this service.
Dedicated Staff: From check-in to final handover at the destination, trained staff provide personalized supervision.
Lounges and Meals: Unaccompanied minors have access to lounges at some airports and receive kid-friendly meals.
Constant Monitoring: Parents are notified at every step, offering peace of mind during the journey.
With a strong safety protocol and warm care, Emirates ensures your child’s journey is secure and enjoyable.
How to Request Emirates Special Assistance
Requesting Emirates special assistance is easy and user-friendly. Here’s how to ensure your support is ready on time:
Booking Phase: Use the “Special Assistance” section during online booking or inform your travel agent.
Manage Booking: If you've already booked, you can modify your preferences by logging into the "Manage Booking" section on the Emirates website.
Medical Clearance Timeline: All medical requests, including MEDIF, should be submitted at least 48 to 72 hours before departure.
Confirmation and Updates: Emirates typically confirms assistance via email or phone, and you can call their 24/7 customer support for further help.
Being proactive ensures a smooth, worry-free experience.
Emirates Special Assistance: A Commitment to Dignity and Care
What truly sets Emirates special assistance apart is the airline’s commitment to offering dignified, respectful service to all passengers. Every journey is personalized, from seamless airport transfers to trained cabin crew ready to assist discreetly and efficiently.
With a robust network of global destinations, modern aircraft, and a service ethos grounded in excellence, Emirates ensures that every individual—regardless of circumstance—can fly in comfort, safety, and style.
If you're traveling with special needs or accompanying someone who is, rest assured that Emirates is prepared, trained, and dedicated to making every moment of the journey exceptional.
