5 Days at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai: My Honest Review

• Check-in starts at 3 PM, and check-out is at 11 AM. The process was quick and efficient.
• As soon as I exited my Uber, the staff took my luggage to my room and provided me with a ticket to track it.
• Early check-in is available but depends on room availability, especially for Atlantis Unlocked members. If you inform the hotel during booking, you might get lucky. I didn't request early check-in, yet I was accommodated by 11 AM.

• Check-out is at 12 PM. If you are a member of Atlantis Unlocked (membership is free), you can request a late checkout. You can leave your luggage in your room, and the staff will bring it down to your car at the entrance, ensuring a true 5-star experience.

• I stayed in a Palm King Guest Room, which offers a direct view to the inner courtyard, Palm Island and the Dubai skyline.

• Ocean View rooms face the Persian Gulf, but the view is not as captivating as the Palm view, which offers a stunning panorama of Palm Island and the Dubai skyline.

• King rooms feature a single large bed, making them ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking comfort and space.
• Queen rooms are equipped with two queen beds, making them ideal for families. They can comfortably accommodate either two adults and two children or three adults and one child.

• The guestroom is spacious and state-of-the-art, complete with essential amenities and offering spectacular views.
• The Wi-Fi in my room was unreliable, and the door lacked soundproofing, allowing hallway noises like conversations, children crying, and staff moving carts to disturb the peace, especially in the morning.

Food and Drinks Station

• Each room features a well-stocked drink and food station, complete with a Nespresso coffee machine, filtered water, a variety of snacks, and a minibar available for an additional charge.

• In the first drawer, you'll find coffee capsules, creamer, tea, cups, and trays.

• In the middle drawer, you will find glasses suitable for alcoholic beverages and a bottle opener.

• In the bottom drawer, you'll find a kettle and a thermos for your convenience.

• Room service is available for an additional charge, though with the variety of buffets and restaurants in the hotel, it might not be necessary.

Wardrobe

• The wardrobe includes two pairs of slippers, a safe, an iron and ironing board, a flashlight for emergencies, and hangers.

The Bed

• The king beds are exceptionally comfortable, with pillows and mattresses that strike the perfect balance between softness and firmness.
• Despite a note about conserving energy by not changing sheets daily, they were replaced every day, which I didn't mind at all.

Desk

• The marble work desk is equipped with a universal power adapter and multiple electrical outlets for all your devices.

• The chair is ergonomic and remains comfortable even after extended periods of sitting.

Praying Mat

• Our Muslim guests will be pleased to find a luxurious prayer mat and Quran included in the room.

Hairdryer

• Lastly, there's a hairdryer and laundry bags (laundry service) available for an extra charge, though the pricing structure based on clothing type can be quite complex, as is common in virtually all hotels.

‍ Balcony / View

• The view from the Palmscape rooms is truly breathtaking, offering a clear sight of the inner courtyard and the Dubai skyline.
• During my stay, I experienced no major disturbances such as construction noise or loud guests (except from the hallway), and my view was unobstructed by any palm trees, unlike at Rixos.

💡 Tip: Don't hesitate to request a room change if you're not satisfied with your current one, such as asking for a room with a better view.

• Overall, the bathroom is immaculate and includes all the essentials you might need, such as towels, bathrobes, shampoo, shower gel, a vanity kit, and more.

Vanity Kit

• The vanity kit includes cotton pads, cotton buds, a bamboo comb, a dental kit, mouthwash, an emery board, and bubble bath gel.

Bathrobes / Bathtub / Towels

• The bathroom comes with 2 sets of bathrobes, large and small towels
• Towels are changed daily.

Toilet / Bidet

• The toilet and bidet... works as expected (not going to post proof, sorry). Excellent hygiene. Comfortable.

Shower

• Water temperature doesn't fluctuate and water pressure is good. Hygiene good. Shampoo, conditioner and shower included.

Rooms

• Imperial Club Room
• Family Club Room (1 or 2 Bedroom)

Suites

• Terrace Suite (1 or 2 Bedroom)
• Skyline Suite (1 or 2 Bedroom)
• Regal Suite (1 or 2 Bedroom)
• Underwater Suite
• Presidential Suite
• Grand Atlantis Suite

• Atlantis, The Palm offers an unparalleled dining experience with over 34 restaurants, including those led by renowned celebrity chefs and Michelin-starred establishments, as well as a variety of international buffets.
• Atlantis The Palm offers two breakfast buffets: Saffron and Kaleidoscope. Both serve the exact same food for breakfast.

• Breakfast hours are from 7 to 11:30 AM. It's advisable to arrive before 9 AM to avoid waiting in line and the morning rush.

💡 Tip: If you're deciding between all-inclusive and half board, here's my take: all-inclusive isn’t really necessary —breakfast is so filling, you might not even feel hungry again until dinner.

• The buffet food quality, both for breakfast and dinner, is the best among the hotels I've visited. The variety is extensive, and the quality is top-notch.

• Atlantis The Royal, the newer and ultra-luxurious sister of Palm Atlantis, serves the exact same gourmet-quality food.

• The staff is exceptionally friendly and polite, always attentive to your needs and quick to offer refreshments.

• Just remember to place a crossed fork and knife on your plate to signal you're still eating, as they tend to clear tables swiftly.

• Breakfast even includes Mimosas and Bloody Marys.

• Fans of Far Eastern Asian cuisine will not be disappointed either.

• There is a wide variety of Indian food available as well.

• Finally, they also offer a variety of cheeses and hams as well.

Celebrity Chef / Michelin Star & Michelin Guide Restaurants

• Atlantis The Palm is a top dining destination with Michelin-starred and celebrity chef restaurants like Ossiano, Hakkasan, Nobu, Studio Frantzén, FZN and Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, offering everything from underwater fine dining to modern Asian and British cuisine.
• Some, like Bread Street Kitchen, are included for hotel guests, while others, such as Nobu, are not.

Other Premium Restaurants

• Other notable restaurants include Seafire, which offers top-quality steaks and a rich wine list; Ayamna, delivering refined Lebanese cuisine with live music; and En Fuego, bringing Latin flair with bold flavors and lively performances.

Casual Restaurants

• Atlantis The Palm offers plenty of casual dining options perfect for relaxed meals.

• Enjoy burgers and arcade games at Wavehouse, tacos by the pool at The Shore or flavorful pan-Asian dishes at Asia Republic.

• The Burger Joint delivers classic American comfort food meanwhile the The Edge offers a relaxed poolside dining experience with Italian-inspired dishes, including stone-hearth pizzas, fresh salads, burgers, and grilled meats.

‍

Kaleidoscope

• Dinner is served in the same locations as breakfast —Saffron and Kaleidoscope.

• Kaleidoscope restaurant offers a diverse selection of international dishes, including Chinese dim sum, Indian curries, Italian pastas, and French pastries. I noticed that the overall variety is less extensive than Saffron, and the restaurant area is smaller too.

• The quality and variety of food at both buffet restaurants are outstanding. T hey offer world-class dining experiences. Neither is better than other, it ultimately depends what you prefer for the evening.

• Next, we have a selection of South Asian cuisine available.

• The buffet also features a seafood section with a variety of options including lobsters, shrimp, oysters, and crabs.

• Next, a wide array of Italian dishes is available. Mamma mía!

• Next, there's a diverse selection of Indian cuisine available.

• The dessert selection is vast, with 15-20 different options. It's almost certain you'll indulge and gain a few pounds during your stay.

Saffron

• Saffron is renowned as Dubai’s largest Asian buffet, featuring over 220 dishes and 20 live cooking stations. Each evening offers a distinct theme, such as Indian, seafood, or Korean-Japanese fusion.

• Apologies for the quality of the photos - They are snapshots taken out of the video food tour as I forgot to take HQ photos separately.

• Following this, a delicious selection of seafood awaits you.

• Next, you'll find a delightful array of Indian dishes to enjoy.

• Next up, you'll discover an assortment of cheeses to savor.

• Russian cuisine is also well-represented. :)

• Next, you'll encounter a tempting selection of Chinese dishes to savor.

• And more Chinese dishes!

• Finally, indulge in a selection of exquisite French gourmet desserts.

Lobby

• The Grand Lobby at Atlantis The Palm is the first thing you see—and it’s absolutely out of this world. Towering at 19 meters, it features a jaw-dropping Dale Chihuly glass sculpture, marble floors, cascading water walls, and ocean-inspired design.
• It’s the kind of place that looks incredible on Instagram and makes your friends instantly wish they were there.

Lounges

• The hallways at Atlantis The Palm carry the ocean theme with grand columns, domed arches, and sea-inspired decor, making the whole place feel luxurious. Right next to the Grand Lobby, you can relax in a stylish café with amazing pastries or chill in a lounge open to everyone.

Shops

• Atlantis The Palm’s The Avenues shopping area features 35+ luxury stores, offering everything from high-end fashion (Tiffany & Co., Montblanc, Via Rodeo) to beachwear (Vilebrequin, Hamac) and souvenirs (Legends of Atlantis, Dolphin Bay Boutique).

• You'll also find specialty shops like Rivoli for watches, Yateem Optician for eyewear, and Marina Pharmacy for essentials—all without leaving the resort.

The Lost Chamber's Aquarium

• The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis The Palm is an immersive, Atlantis-themed underwater world with over 65,000 marine animals across 21 exhibits.

• Walk through glass tunnels to see sharks, rays, and seahorses, or take part in interactive touch tanks, behind-the-scenes tours, and even snorkeling or diving in the Ambassador Lagoon.

• Open every day 10 AM–9 PM, it’s free for resort guests and kids under 3.

Aquaventure World Waterpark

• Aquaventure World, included free with your stay at Atlantis The Palm, is the world’s largest waterpark and a must-visit. With over 105 slides and attractions, it features record-breaking thrills like the Leap of Faith and Odyssey of Terror, plus family rides, rapids, splash zones, and a 1km private beach.

• I tried it all—it’s a blast, though be ready for lots of stair-climbing and queues. Kids will love the massive Splashers play areas, while marine lovers can enjoy encounters with dolphins, sea lions, rays, and sharks at Atlas Village.

Garden

• Step outside at Atlantis The Palm and you’ll find palm-lined paths, lush gardens, and beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf. It’s a peaceful, photo-worthy setting—perfect for a quiet walk, relaxing moment, or just enjoying the resort’s calm, tropical vibe.

Pools

• The Grand Pool offers a more laid-back, spacious setting surrounded by palm trees and luxury loungers. It’s ideal for adults or anyone looking to relax in a quieter atmosphere, although it's not adults-only (i.e. there are children around).

• The Family Pool at Atlantis The Palm is perfect for kids and parents alike. With shallow areas, lifeguards, and a fun, energetic vibe, it’s a safe and exciting place for children to splash around while adults relax nearby.

Free Private Beach

• As a guest at Atlantis The Palm, you get free access to the resort’s private beach. Enjoy complimentary sun loungers, umbrellas, towels, and beachside food and drink service. Swimming is safe and family-friendly, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available for an extra fee.

White Beach (Extra Cost)

• WHITE Beach is Atlantis The Palm’s upscale beach club offering a chic adults-only vibe with stunning views, stylish loungers, and two infinity pools. It’s not included for hotel guests.

• Part of the fee is usually redeemable on food and drinks.

• By day, it’s perfect for sunbathing and Mediterranean dining. By night, it transforms into a vibrant party spot with live DJs and a trendy crowd.

Tennis Court

Gym (AWAKEN Fitness Centre)

• The AWAKEN Fitness Centre at Atlantis The Palm is equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment for cardio, strength, and flexibility training. Guests can benefit from personal trainers, virtual classes, and a dedicated fitness studio. The center is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

AWAKEN Spa

• The AWAKEN Spa at Atlantis The Palm offers a unique holistic experience blending aromatherapy, UAE-made skincare, and healing sound frequencies to cleanse the body and uplift the mind and spirit. ‍
• Signature treatments use high-frequency wellness essences, and guests can unwind in the sauna, steam room, cold plunge, vitality pool, and relaxation lounge.

Explorers' Club

• The Atlantis Explorers Club at Atlantis The Palm is a top-tier kids' facility for ages 4–12, featuring ten themed zones like cooking workshops, creative crafts, interactive games, and role-play villages. It blends fun with education through expert-led programs on marine life and conservation.
• For toddlers (0–3), there's a safe, supervised play area. Staffed by multilingual childcare pros trained in pediatric first aid, it ensures a secure and enriching experience. Read more about it here.

• The staff at Palm Atlantis are exceptionally friendly and polite.

• The cafeteria and restaurant staff were always prompt in seating me upon arrival. They quickly brought refreshments and coffee and were attentive to any requests I had. I appreciated their occasional check-ins to ensure everything was satisfactory.

• As you exit the elevator to the ground floor, a security guard is always there to greet you with a smile and a friendly 'good day.' In the main hall, staff are more than willing to assist with taking photos as well. Additionally, there's a public area downstairs after the underground aquarium, where a two-man security checkpoint ensures that only hotel guests can enter.

• I consistently experienced smooth and friendly service from the receptionists and concierge during both check-in and check-out.

• I appreciated the thoughtful gestures from the room cleaning staff, who gifted me a free mouse pad and a glass cleaning cloth, and often tidied up and organized my room. All of this was unprompted, but it made my stay more special.