Atlantis Dubai

Atlantis the Palm Dubai

The last quarter of 2008 saw the biggest fireworks display the world has ever seen in order to launch one of the world’s most glamorous (or garish to some) hotel in the world.  The Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai is probably the runner up hotel choice in Dubai after the prestigious Burj Al Arab.  Both have many similarities in the overall décor; grand, gaudy and excess but both score very highly on customer service and feel good factor.  Based on a replica of its sister outlet in the Bahamas, the Atlantis, Dubai is just a tad different as it sits on reclaimed land and the surrounding waters go through a rigorous desalination process.  Artificial and un-eco friendly as it may appear, you have to nod your head in approval as this is one mega impressive structure to talk about.  Ten years ago the area that is now Palm Jumeirah was nothing but the Persian Gulf, in a matter of years, the area was transformed into artificial land with an unimaginable amount of rock and sand to form the shape of a palm tree and at its northern tip, the area for the Atlantis was reserved. 

The Atlantis, The Palm is quite a distance from Dubai city centre, so if you are choosing this hotel for your holiday to Dubai, be prepared to stay in the hotel grounds for most of your trip, this isn’t unfortunate unless you are on a budget and eating outlets here don’t come cheap.  There are about 15 restaurants a mixture of casual dining and award winning; Nobu to Michelin star eateries by Santi Santamaria and Michel Rostang to name a few.   For entertainment there is the cool waterpark of the moment – Aquaventure which will thrill the young and old.  Beware the Leap of Faith is not for the faint hearted with its 90 ft drop down a 84 degree incline  - it’s heart popping I tell you!  For the timid bunch there are many doable slides and rides through the rapids not to mention a 700 metre private beach.  For a real treat, you can arrange a playdate with the dolphins by getting up close and personal or just enjoying an observer pass from the beach.  Aquaventure has so much and you can quite easily spend a relaxing day here with the family, the park is open to hotel guests normally free of charge (check before booking with your travel agent) and for visitors the rates are listed below.

If planning a stay at the Atlantis, rooms start at 895 AED for a deluxe.  If booking via a travel agent you may be able to secure a better deal and even include breakfast.  If your feeling rich, why not book the famous Lost Chambers suite, spread over 3 floors and stunning views of marine life from the bedroom, dining and bathroom areas!

Cheack out our review of the Atlantis Dubai

Points of note:

When – Aquaventure, Dolphin Bay and the Lost Chambers are open all year round, however opening times will vary with the time of year so please refer to website.  Take note, the weather in Dubai can get extremely uncomfortable during June – August, but on the flip side, this will probably be the quietest time in the resort. 

How long – You can easily spend a full day at Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers respectively. Dolphin Bay can be done in half to a full day depending on the activities you choose. 

Location – The Atlantis, The Palm is not in the centre of Dubai.  It is a 30 min (35km) journey from Dubai International Airport and about a 25 taxi ride into Dubai city centre although if travelling during morning or evening rush hour allow more time.  Alternatively, take the monorail from the Atlantis till the Gateway and connect to a dubai metro station to complete your journey – saves traffic!

Cost – Rates of Aquaventure as at May 2011.  Adult day pass including access to private beach 200 AED each. Child 3-13 years 165 AED.  Child 2 and under are free.

Rates for different activities in Dolphin Bay vary.  Ray Feeding starts from 175 AED per person and the Dolphin  Encounter starts at 595 AED per person.  Note that children below the age of 6 cannot participate in most Dolphin Bay activities.  Day entries to The Lost Chambers start at 70 AED for children and 100 AED for adults.

Booking – you can book via the website or calling directly.

More Info - The Atlantis Dubai