Dubai
It looks as if someone stacked giant staircases on top of each other at the tip of the palm island. Atlantis The Royal has been Dubai's most talked-about hotel since it opened in 2023, with pools in the sky, 16 restaurants and a private beach. Here is what to know before you book.
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In short: is Atlantis The Royal worth it?
Yes, if you want to stay at one of the most distinctive hotels in the world and are willing to pay for it. Guests rate it 9.4 from more than 700 reviews, and many mention the staff. It suits couples and families who plan to spend much of the holiday at the hotel.
Book Atlantis The Royal: Check availability and prices
Picolo has been to Atlantis The Royal, and the assessments below are our own.
Location
The hotel sits on the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah, right next to its older sister, Atlantis The Palm. The Aquaventure waterpark is a few minutes away by car. For Dubai Marina and Downtown, take a taxi.
Atlantis The Royal
From the pool high above you look out over the whole palm island.
The pools and the beach
The hotel has two outdoor pools and a lazy river, and the Cloud 22 pool sits on the 22nd floor with views across the whole palm island. Down by the sea there is a private beach with cabanas and parasols. Access to the waterpark is included.
The restaurants
Atlantis The Royal has 16 restaurants and a long list of bars, including on the beach and by the pools. Several restaurants are run by well-known chefs, among them Heston Blumenthal. Book tables well ahead, especially for weekend dinners.
For families
The hotel has a kids' club and its own children's pool, and cots are included. With the waterpark and Aquaventure nearby, it is easy to fill the days for children.
Atlantis The Royal or Atlantis The Palm?
Atlantis The Royal: newer and more exclusive, with a focus on design and pools high above the ground.
Atlantis The Palm: the older sister hotel from 2008, more family-oriented and with Aquaventure right next door.
Alternatives on Palm Jumeirah
For a quieter resort on the palm island, Waldorf Astoria is a good choice, with three pools and a guest rating of 9.4. See more in our guides to Dubai hotels and the best hotels in Dubai.
Book Waldorf Astoria: Check availability and prices
Tips before you book
Choose a sea-view room: the view is a big part of the experience.
Check what is included: breakfast and other extras vary between rates.
Go in winter: from November to March it is comfortable to be outdoors. See the Dubai weather.
Frequently asked questions about Atlantis The Royal
When did Atlantis The Royal open?
The hotel opened in 2023.
Where is Atlantis The Royal?
On the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, next to Atlantis The Palm.
Does Atlantis The Royal have a beach?
Yes, the hotel has a private beach with cabanas and parasols.
Is Atlantis The Royal good for kids?
Yes. It has a kids' club and a children's pool, and access to the waterpark is included.
What is the difference between Atlantis The Royal and Atlantis The Palm?
The Royal is newer and more exclusive. The Palm is more family-oriented, with Aquaventure right next door.