Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.
I recently enjoyed a wonderful, short holiday in Dubai. You can read my trip reports here:
- Review: Emirates Boeing 777 new Business Class from Brussels to Dubai
- Review: Atlantis The Royal Dubai, a phenomenal, ultra-luxury hotel (today)
Today: Review of Atlantis The Royal (Dubai)
- Hotel website: Atlantis The Royal Dubai Resort
- Location: Google maps
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso
Atlantis The Royal is more than a luxury hotel — it’s a statement of architectural audacity and modern glamour. Opened in early 2023, this flagship resort from Kerzner International instantly became one of the most recognizable icons on Dubai’s skyline. Designed to redefine what a “destination resort” can be, Atlantis The Royal offers a sensory journey that fuses art, technology, and hospitality, where every experience feels curated for modern travelers who expect nothing less than perfection. The ultra-luxury hotel is home to 795 sophisticated rooms and suites including some with their own private pool plus a Michelin-worthy lineup of dining venues spearheaded by celebrity chefs. The hotel’s scale is breathtaking, yet its service remains intimate and attentive — a hallmark of true five-star luxury. Whether you’re visiting for romance, family luxury, or pure escapism, Atlantis The Royal is engineered to impress from the moment you arrive.
Atlantis The Royal Dubai features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury hotels in Dubai and the best luxury hotels in the world.
Have you ever stayed at Atlantis The Royal? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.
In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):
- Pros & things I like
- Cons & things to know
- My verdict
- Tips for future guests & save money
- Best time to visit
- How to get there
- Photos
PROS & THINGS I LIKE
- Nestled on the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis The Royal occupies the most coveted addresses in Dubai. Its position ensures panoramic views of both the Arabian Gulf and the glittering city skyline — particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset. The resort shares proximity with its sister property, Atlantis The Palm, yet feels distinctly more exclusive, with heightened privacy and sophistication. Guests enjoy easy access to Dubai’s major landmarks — only a 25-minute drive to Downtown Dubai, 20 minutes to the Mall of the Emirates, and just 15 minutes from Dubai Marina. Despite its urban convenience, the hotel feels worlds away from the city’s bustle, surrounded by calm waters and tropical landscaping. This balance of seclusion and accessibility makes Atlantis The Royal ideal for travelers seeking the perfect blend of serenity and excitement in one location.
- Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, the stunning architecture of Atlantis The Royal is a bold reinterpretation of resort design. Its structure, composed of interlocking terraced towers that are connected by sky bridges, resembles a cascade of stacked sky villas suspended in mid-air. At 178 meters (584 feet) tall, the building dominates the Palm skyline, yet its tiered geometry prevents it from feeling monolithic. A standout feature of the design is the double-curvature façade, which, combined with the stepped profile of the towers, creates a sculptural composition unlike any other property in Dubai. From the north-facing windows, guests are treated to uninterrupted vistas of the Gulf, while south-facing views reveal the Palm beaches and Dubai’s glittering skyline. The exterior is a spectacle both day and night — by daylight, it gleams like a futuristic sculpture; after sunset, LED lighting transforms the building into a luminous jewel.
- Inside Atlantis The Royal Dubai, the public interiors continue the narrative of grandeur and sophistication established by its striking architecture. The unique design concept draws from the four natural elements — water, fire, earth, and air — woven seamlessly into every texture and surface. The vast corridors, lounges, and atriums are clad in polished marble and shimmering onyx, while cascading light installations emulate the fluid motion of water. Gold accents and warm natural stone add depth and richness, creating a balance between grandeur and intimacy. Sculptural columns and reflective ceilings amplify the sense of space, while curated art pieces by international and regional artists give the interiors a gallery-like sophistication. The lighting design deserves special mention — ambient glows and subtle spotlights change throughout the day, transforming moods as guests move from one area to another.
- The moment guests step into the majestic lobby of Atlantis The Royal, they are enveloped in a world of light, water, and grandeur. At its center stands Droplets, an 12 meter (38 feet) tall stainless-steel sculpture symbolizing the first drop of rain that brings life to the desert. The feature is surrounded by a reflective water pool, while natural light pours through towering windows and glimmers off crystal installations above. Along the lobby’s edges, aquariums filled with colorful marine life shimmer softly, bringing a sense of calm and connection to the ocean beyond. Despite its grandeur, the space feels warm and inviting thanks to a palette of neutral tones, soft seating clusters, and discreetly placed floral arrangements. Every element, from the geometry of the lighting to the scent of Arabian amber that lingers in the air, has been choreographed to make the lobby not just an entry point — but an unforgettable introduction to the world of Atlantis The Royal.
- Beyond the lobby, a collection of luxury boutiques extends the resort’s atmosphere of refinement and exclusivity. Guests can explore flagship stores from world-renowned fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, and Valentino, each presented in interiors as polished and artful as the hotel itself. The design of the retail promenade mirrors the calm elegance of the main lobby — soft lighting, marble walkways, and warm metallic details create a gallery-like ambience that invites unhurried browsing. Each boutique has been thoughtfully integrated into the architecture, maintaining clean sightlines and an effortless flow between spaces. Whether selecting a statement evening look, an exclusive fragrance, or a bespoke accessory, shopping at Atlantis The Royal feels more like a private couture experience than a traditional retail visit — an extension of the resort’s signature blend of glamour and sophistication.
- Atlantis The Royal houses 795 rooms and suites, divided into 10 distinct room categories spread across three interconnected towers linked by dramatic sky bridges. The interiors boast contemporary luxury, with warm tones, sculpted lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood every space with natural light. During my holiday, I stayed in one of the Seascape Rooms with two queen-size beds (as requested), which opened onto a private balcony with jaw-dropping views of the Arabian Sea, the perfect setting for morning coffee or sunset reflection. Inside, soft cream fabrics, bronze accents, and subtle blue hues echoed the ocean outside. The bathroom was equipped with a walk-in shower alongside a stand-alone bathtub fitted with smart privacy glass, allowing to enjoy the view or create seclusion at the touch of a button. It also featured luxurious Frette bathrobes and in-room bath amenities by Graff, exclusively created for Atlantis The Royal.
- For those seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, the Sky Pool Suites and Signature Penthouses redefine the very idea of a private sanctuary. Perched high above the resort, these accommodations feature vast terraces with private infinity pools that seem to merge seamlessly with the horizon, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai skyline. Each suite is meticulously designed with architecturally landscaped gardens, spacious living areas, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The pools themselves are strategically positioned to provide complete privacy while maximizing the view, allowing guests to soak in the water while gazing at both the skyline and the sea. Every detail, from bespoke furnishings and artisanal décor to curated lighting and soundscapes, contributes to a resort-within-a-resort experience, making these suites the ultimate retreat for travelers who desire exclusivity, luxury, and breathtaking vistas.
- Cloud 22, located on the 22nd floor of Atlantis The Royal Dubai, is the resort’s premier panoramic rooftop pool, offering breathtaking views over the Palm Islands and Dubai’s skyline. Standing 96 meters (315 feet) above the Palm and stretching across 90 meters (295 feet), the space features an expansive infinity pool, complemented by floating sunbeds, eleven private cabanas, and a two-storey VIP suite complete with its own pool. Cloud 22 also boasts six acrylic Trumpets topped with hand-blown glass flowers. Six Stem and Bloom installations line the pool, with crystal chandeliers that open and close to provide shade or light for each cabana. The Lotus Bar, inspired by a lotus leaf, serves as the rooftop’s centerpiece with a swim-up bar and projection mapping. Cloud 22’s design is enriched with the signature style of Dolce & Gabbana, brought to life with Ounass, celebrating Italy’s cultural heritage through bold patterns, folkloric motifs, and carefully curated furnishings.
- The Royal Pool serves as the hotel’s central lagoon-style swimming oasis, designed with families in mind. Surrounded by lush palms and landscaped terraces, the massive pool area offers a safe and inviting environment for guests of all ages. Shallow zones and gradual slopes make it safe for children, while larger, deeper sections provide plenty of space for adults to enjoy leisurely swims. The pool deck features comfortable loungers, floating daybeds, and private cabanas, with attentive staff available to provide refreshments and poolside service. Thoughtful water features – including small cascades, fountains and interactive elements for younger guests – enhance the playful yet relaxing atmosphere. Shaded areas and strategically placed seating offer quiet corners for reading or resting, while easy access to nearby family amenities, such as kid-friendly restaurants and restroom facilities, ensures convenience.
- The exclusive adults-only pool at Nobu by the Beach offers a more tranquil and refined pool experience compared to the family-focused Royal Pool. Designed with a sleek aesthetic, the pool area combines natural materials like soft woods, stone, and neutral fabrics to create a relaxed and stylish ambiance. The pool is accompanied by shaded cabanas, loungers, and intimate seating areas that encourage small gatherings and quiet moments of relaxation. Guests can enjoy Nobu’s signature Japanese-Peruvian cuisine served directly to the pool deck (or at the adjoining restaurant), allowing for a seamless blend of dining and leisure. The space feels calm and sophisticated, with subtle landscaping and gentle water sounds contributing to a sense of privacy and serenity. This pool is ideal for guests seeking a peaceful, elegant environment for daytime relaxation, while still being close to the beach and resort amenities.
- The private beach at Atlantis The Royal features soft sand and clear waters, creating a serene escape for guests. Lined with hundreds of comfortable loungers, it offers ample space for relaxation while providing a safe swimming zone ideal for families and casual swimmers alike. From the shoreline, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Dubai skyline in the distance, adding a cosmopolitan backdrop to the tropical setting. A well-appointed beach bar serves refreshing cocktails, chilled beverages, and light bites throughout the day, ensuring a leisurely experience without ever leaving the sand. The beach’s design combines tropical landscaping, shaded areas, and easy access to pool and resort amenities, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery. Atlantis The Royal promotes its 2 km (1.3 mile) beachfront as the largest continuous stretch of private beach in Dubai.
- Awaken at Atlantis The Royal is a spa sanctuary designed to guide each guest toward mindfulness, health, and happiness, awakening all elements of true nature — body (earth), mind (fire), emotion (water), and spirit (air). Located on the lower ground level, it features 15 therapy, VIP, and specialty suites with fireplaces. The Hammam Sensorium reimagines bathhouse culture with treatments inspired by the four elements, while the Elements Retreat offers an immersive circuit: Fire for the mind with a charcoal sauna and tepidarium; Earth for the body in Halotherapy Salt Rooms and Meditation Gardens; Water for emotional release through hydrotherapy pools and alchemy showers; and Air to lift the spirit in aromatherapy steam rooms and air loungers. A fitness center complements the spa experience with indoor and outdoor classes, a movement studio, a 25 m (82 ft) lap pool, and beach-camp HIIT sessions along the resort’s beachfront.
- Atlantis The Royal has gathered some of the finest chefs in the world to offer guests and visitors a dining experience like no other. Home to more celebrity chefs under one roof than anywhere in the world, Atlantis The Royal is thé culinary and entertainment destination in Dubai, offering 14 restaurants and bars:
- Dinner by Heston Blumenthal presents contemporary British cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Heston Blumenthal. Guests can savor historically inspired dishes like Meat Fruit and Tipsy Cake in a relaxed fine dining setting with a terrace overlooking the Dubai skyline.
- Ariana’s Persian Kitchen showcases authentic Persian flavors reimagined by celebrity chef Ariana Bundy. Signature dishes include Ghormeh Sabzi and 24K gold-jewelled rice, enjoyed in a beautifully designed space reflecting Ariana’s historic Kashan home.
- La Mar by Gastón Acurio features upscale Peruvian cuisine by renowned chef Gastón Acurio, specializing in ceviches, tiraditos, and charcoal-grilled whole fish. The indoor/outdoor restaurant provides stunning views of the Palm and Dubai skyline.
- Estiatorio Milos by Costas Spiliadis highlights Greek Mediterranean seafood at its finest, renowned for the freshest catches and family-style sharing dishes. Guests can select fish from the display for preparation in multiple ways while taking in views of the Skyblaze fountains.
- Nobu by the Beach delivers Japanese-Peruvian cuisine alongside a refined pool club experience by Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. Lounge in VIP cabanas or indulge in sushi, black cod, and signature cocktails by the ocean.
- Ling Ling by Tao Group Hospitality features contemporary Asian cuisine in a stylish dining and ultra-lounge setting with panoramic views. Signature dishes include Gold A5 Wagyu & Lobster Maki and Australian Tea Smoked Duck.
- Cloud 22 presents Mediterranean-inspired sky pool dining and lounge on the 22nd floor. Guests can unwind in cabanas or the VVIP suite while tasting smoked salmon flatbreads and enjoying panoramic views of the Palm and Arabian Sea.
- Malibu 90265 specializes in American classics in a West Coast diner environment, with lobster rolls, Reubens, and burgers. The retro-inspired interior with a jukebox creates a family-friendly casual dining experience.
- The Royal Tearoom hosts luxury afternoon tea with premium chocolates, pastries, and rare teas curated by Chef Christophe. Situated beneath the 11.5-meter Droplets sculpture in the main lobby, it’s an elegant and interactive experience.
- Ling Ling Ultra Lounge offers an exclusive nightlife experience with DJs and creative cocktails, seamlessly evolving from dining to dancing in a stylish, panoramic setting.
- Seascapes Beach Bar & Restaurant features casual beachfront dining with light meals and cocktails, paired with stunning views of the Palm and Dubai skyline.
- Elements Cocktail Bar provides a contemporary setting for signature drinks in a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for sunset cocktails.
- House of Desserts tempts guests with sweet creations, including waffles, crepes, and ice cream, ideal for indulgent daytime or evening treats.
- Gastronomy Dining Hall serves as the resort’s all-day dining venue, showcasing fresh, global flavors in an elegantly designed hall.
- The lavish breakfast buffet at Gastronomy Restaurant in Atlantis The Royal Dubai is a breathtaking culinary experience — easily one of the most impressive hotel breakfasts anywhere in the world, perhaps second only to Soneva Fushi in the Maldives. The restaurant is divided into distinct themed areas, each the size of a full hotel buffet on its own, creating a true food lover’s paradise. There’s The Bakery, where the scent of daily fresh croissants, breads, and pastries fills the air; The Grill, offering made-to-order eggs, meats, and breakfast classics; and an Asian Corner with steaming dim sum, noodles, and aromatic curries. A dedicated Pizza Oven serves artisanal flatbreads straight from the fire, while the Seafood Station presents delicacies like smoked salmon, sushi and sashimi. The elegant Deli Counter highlights fine cheeses, charcuterie, and cold cuts, laid out with exquisite presentation. My personal favorite, The Orchard, focuses on healthy dishes crafted from fresh ingredients — from smoothies and cold-pressed juices to avocado toast, salads, and colorful fruit bowls. Every section truly feels like a boutique restaurant within the grand dining hall.
- The fountains at Atlantis The Royal, designed by WET, are a spectacular celebration of water, architecture, and the resort’s iconic location on The Palm. Drawing inspiration from the property’s design, surrounding waters, and the Atlantis brand, the fountains create a continuous visual and physical connection to the bay and the Arabian Gulf, ensuring guests feel immersed in water at every turn. Along the resort’s main axis, a series of choreographed fountains guide visitors from the entrance to the dramatic Horizon and Skyblaze finale, the frst and only permanent fire and water performance fountain in the Middle East. By combining contemplative moments with high-energy displays, these fountains transform the resort into a living canvas, and the nightly shows elevate the experience, merging light, fire, and water to create a captivating experience for guests. The shows are best viewed from either the Elements Cocktail Bar or the Greek restaurant, Estiatorio Milos.
- Connected directly to the resort, Aquaventure Waterpark is officially recognized as the largest waterpark in the world, featuring over 100 rides and attractions. Highlights include record-breaking slides like “Leap of Faith” and “Odyssey of Terror”, which challenge even the bravest thrill-seekers. Families can explore dedicated children’s areas, gentle lazy rivers, and spacious lounging zones ideal for relaxation between rides. The park’s scale allows for full-day adventures — with on-site dining, shaded cabanas, and direct access to a private beach. Beyond the slides, guests can interact with marine life through the park’s aquariums and dolphin experiences. Atlantis The Royal guests enjoy complimentary access, making this attraction an unbeatable addition to a luxury stay and turning the resort into a world-class adventure destination.
CONS & THINGS TO KNOW
- While the grandeur of Atlantis The Royal is undeniably part of its allure, the vastness of the resort can make it feel somewhat impersonal at times. With hundreds of rooms, multiple restaurants, and sprawling amenities, guests seeking a boutique experience might find themselves longing for a more intimate scale. It can also get quite busy in communal areas—particularly around the main pools and at the breakfast buffet—where the crowds somewhat detract from the sense of exclusivity. It’s easy to get lost—both literally and figuratively—in the resort’s opulence, which can dilute the feeling of calm some luxury travelers may value.
- The design and experience of Atlantis The Royal lean heavily toward extravagance and visual drama—flames, fountains, and futuristic architecture dominate every corner. While this makes for dazzling Instagram moments, it can occasionally feel more like a theatrical set than a reflection of Dubai’s authentic culture or the surrounding natural beauty. That said, this pursuit of spectacle is hardly unique to Atlantis The Royal—most of Dubai’s top hotels aim to impress through grandeur and innovation—but Atlantis arguably does it best. Its attention to scale, lighting, and sheer visual impact sets a new benchmark for opulent design.
- Atlantis The Royal’s pricing firmly places it in the ultra-luxury category, yet the atmosphere doesn’t always deliver complete seclusion. Public spaces, pools, and even fine-dining venues can become quite busy, especially during weekends and holidays. For travelers who equate luxury with tranquility, the lively, sometimes celebrity-infused energy may feel at odds with the serene escape they expect from a top-tier resort. That said, discerning travelers who love unapologetic opulence will absolutely revel in the experience—and are likely to feel that every dollar spent is well justified by the sheer spectacle, service, and indulgence on offer.
- Although Atlantis The Royal boasts a private beachfront with stunning views of the Palm and Dubai skyline, the sand—while impeccably maintained—feels a little firmer and less silky underfoot, an inevitable result of its artificial construction. Of course, this is hardly surprising given that the entire Palm itself is a man-made island built from reclaimed land. It’s a beautiful spot for sunbathing, yet seasoned travelers who’ve experienced the natural beaches at Dubai’s Jumeirah shoreline may find the texture and feel of the beaches at The Palm just a touch less inviting.
- While the upbeat soundtrack at Atlantis The Royal Dubai adds to its vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, the constant presence of music throughout the resort—from pool decks to common areas—can become a bit tiring for guests seeking peace and quiet. The curated playlists fit the resort’s glamorous vibe, but finding a truly tranquil spot to read, nap, or simply enjoy the sound of the sea can be a challenge. For travelers who equate luxury with serenity, the perpetual background music may feel more like a distraction than a mood enhancer. That said, those who love a lively, Miami Beach–style ambiance will absolutely adore the constant beat and energetic vibe that pulse through every corner of the resort.
- While the lower-category rooms at Atlantis The Royal are stylish, luxurious, and impeccably maintained, they don’t quite deliver the “wow” factor many guests expect from a resort of this caliber. Bathrooms can feel somewhat compact, and the overall space, while functional, lacks the drama and indulgence of the higher-tier accommodations. For travelers seeking that full sense of luxury and grandeur, booking a suite (e.g. Sky Pool Suite or Signature Penthouse Suite) is highly recommended—it provides significantly more space, striking design features, and the unforgettable “wow” factor that defines the Atlantis Dubai experience.
- A notable downside of staying at Atlantis The Royal is that not all of its headline-grabbing pools are actually included in the room rate. While guests receive complimentary access to the resort’s main pool (The Royal Pool) and beach areas, the most sought-after spots – Cloud 22, the dramatic rooftop infinity pool, and the exclusive Nobu By the Beach pool – require separate reservations and additional fees, even for hotel guests. For a property positioned as one of Dubai’s most luxurious resorts, many travelers find it disappointing that these premium pools aren’t part of the standard experience, especially when they’re showcased so prominently in the hotel’s marketing.
MY VERDICT
- Layout: 9/10
- Design: 10/10
- Pool: 10/10
- Rooms: 8/10
- Food: 10/10
- Breakfast: 10/10
- Spa: 9/10
- Service: 9/10
- Wow factor: 10/10
- Value for money: 8/10
- Overall experience: exceptional – 9.3/10
TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY
- Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Atlantis The Royal via Virtuoso:
- Room upgrade
- Daily breakfast
- Early check-in
- Late check-out
- $100 USD resort credit
- Complimentary bottle of wine
- Save money: read here my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like Atlantis The Royal (and/or receive many free perks).
- Room tip: for travelers seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, upgrading to a suite—like the Sky Pool Suite or Signature Penthouse Suite—transforms the stay entirely. With expansive space, eye-catching design details, and that unforgettable “wow” factor, these suites perfectly capture the essence of the Atlantis Dubai experience.
- Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March, when daytime temperatures are comfortably between 24 and 30°C (75–86°F) and evenings are pleasantly mild. This period is ideal for enjoying the city’s beaches, outdoor dining, desert safaris, and sightseeing without the intense heat of summer. It also coincides with major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival and the Dubai Food Festival, making it a lively time to explore. While hotel rates are higher due to peak tourist season, the weather makes it the perfect window for both relaxation and adventure. Visiting outside these months is possible, but the summer months from June to September bring extreme heat, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), which can make outdoor activities challenging.
HOW TO GET THERE
Atlantis The Royal is located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai and is easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem. Visitors arriving by air can reach the resort in approximately 40–45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, depending on traffic. For those staying elsewhere in the city, the Palm monorail offers a scenic route along the trunk of the Palm, stopping near Atlantis The Royal, though a short taxi ride from the station is still required.
PHOTOS
Below is a selection of my photos from Atlantis The Royal Dubai. To see more images, including breakfast and dinner at the various restaurants, click here.
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