Traveling can be stressful for anyone, but for passengers with limited mobility, the experience comes with unique challenges. That’s why Emirates Wheelchair Assistance is such an essential service—providing comfort, support, and accessibility from booking to arrival. Whether you're flying solo, with a caregiver, or assisting a loved one, this guide covers everything you need to know about requesting and using wheelchair assistance with Emirates. Let’s walk through the entire journey so you can fly with confidence.
What Is Emirates Wheelchair Assistance?
Wheelchair Assistance is a free, dedicated service offered by Emirates Airlines for passengers who require mobility support during their journey. From check-in at the airport to arriving at your destination, Emirates ensures that passengers with reduced mobility receive personalized assistance at every step.
This service includes:
- Assistance with check-in and security
- Escort to and from boarding gates
- Help with baggage handling
- Support with boarding and disembarkation
- In-transit assistance for connecting flights
- Return of personal wheelchairs at arrival
Emirates is committed to inclusive travel, making flying safe, dignified, and comfortable for all passengers.
Who Can Request Wheelchair Assistance?
Anyone with a temporary or permanent mobility limitation is eligible for this service. Whether it’s due to age, injury, surgery, disability, or any medical condition, Emirates encourages you to request assistance early to ensure a seamless experience.
It’s also ideal for:
- Elderly passengers needing help with long distances at the airport
- Passengers recovering from surgery
- Individuals with visual or hearing impairments (additional services available)
- Passengers with conditions requiring reduced movement
How to Request Emirates Wheelchair Assistance
1. At the Time of Booking
When booking a ticket through the Emirates website, mobile app, or through a travel agent, there’s an option to request wheelchair support under “Special Assistance.”
2. Via Manage My Booking
If you've already booked your flight, simply go to “Manage My Booking” on the Emirates website and add your special assistance request.
3. Contact Emirates Directly
You can also call Emirates customer service or visit an Emirates sales office at least 48 hours before your flight to ensure availability.
Pro Tip: The earlier you request, the better the coordination—especially for connecting flights or long-haul journeys.
What to Expect at the Airport
Once you’ve requested wheelchair assistance, here’s how your journey will typically unfold:
Arrival at the Airport
Upon arrival, notify the check-in counter or special services desk. A trained staff member will be assigned to assist you from this point forward.
Check-In and Baggage
The Emirates team helps you check in and ensures your luggage is handled correctly. Personal wheelchairs can either be checked in or used all the way to the aircraft.
Security and Immigration
Your assistant will guide you through fast-track security and immigration lines where available, minimizing wait times and fatigue.
Gate Assistance
You’ll be escorted to your departure gate in plenty of time, with access to restrooms and lounges if needed.
Boarding and In-Flight Comfort
Priority Boarding
Passengers using Emirates Wheelchair Assistance are offered priority boarding, ensuring you’re among the first to settle into your seat.
Onboard Comfort
While Emirates cabins are spacious, aisle wheelchairs are available to help you access lavatories on long-haul flights. Cabin crew are trained to provide discreet support where needed, though personal care assistants must be arranged if more intensive help is required.
Assistance During Layovers and Connections
If your journey involves connecting flights, don’t worry—Emirates coordinates wheelchair assistance at every airport in your itinerary. From disembarkation to re-boarding, a staff member will ensure you're guided through terminals and transition points comfortably and on time.
Note: Always confirm your assistance request for each leg of the journey, especially when traveling through partner or codeshare airports.
Arrival at Destination
Upon landing, Emirates staff will meet you at the aircraft door and assist you through:
- Immigration and customs
- Baggage claim
- Personal wheelchair retrieval
- Transfer to ground transportation or family pickup point
If you've arranged connecting ground transport or mobility services, Emirates can help coordinate the handover.
Bringing Your Own Wheelchair?
Passengers are welcome to bring personal mobility devices such as:
- Manual or electric wheelchairs
- Mobility scooters
- Walking aids
These items are carried free of charge and handled with care. Emirates ensures that your device is either returned to you at the aircraft door or at baggage claim, depending on local airport procedures.
Tip: Clearly label your wheelchair and provide handling instructions, especially for electric models.
Emirates’ Commitment to Accessibility
Emirates is recognized globally for its exceptional service standards—and that includes its approach to disability support and accessibility. The airline is continually investing in training, equipment, and process improvements to better support passengers with mobility challenges.
- Staff receive sensitivity and assistance training
- Airports have designated special assistance counters
- Boarding bridges and ramps are used wherever possible
- Online support and FAQs are available 24/7
Final Thoughts
Flying doesn’t have to be stressful—especially when you're supported by a world-class airline like Emirates. Their wheelchair assistance service ensures that passengers with reduced mobility can travel with ease, dignity, and peace of mind. Whether you're taking a short-haul flight or embarking on a long international journey, Wheelchair Assistance is your key to accessible and worry-free travel. From booking to baggage claim, you're in expert hands every step of the way. Ready to fly comfortably? Make your Wheelchair Assistance request today and enjoy a travel experience designed with care.