The palatial architecture and envied facilities of Atlantis, The Palm have made it not only one Dubai's most iconic hotels, but a firm favourite with families. Whether you're adrenaline junkies, culture seekers, or you're just hoping for some quality time together, this sprawling resort has something for all ages.
Aquaventure Waterpark
Iconic waterslides, splash-worthy rides and Dubai's longest Lazy River; it's hardly surprising Atlantis' Aquaventure Waterpark is equally adored by younger travellers and the young at heart. There's over 17 hectares of excitement to explore, including 500 metres of private beach and two dedicated dining zones for when you've worked up an appetite. You can also grab a board to try out the cutting-edge Surf's Up Wave Rider, or head beneath the surface for an unforgettable shark safari - pop on your state-of-the-art helmet and walk underwater amongst amazing marine life including sharks, rays and colourful tropical fish.
The epic heights and high-speed drops of the attractions record-breaking rides are, of course, the biggest temptation for thrill seekers of all ages. Defy gravity on a six-seater tube, be catapulted around terrifying turns and navigate your way through the wild river rapids - but will you be brave enough to take the 60km/h speeds and upside-down loop of Poseidon's Revenge? However, don't worry if your little ones aren't up to an adrenaline rush, they'll still have a blast! The custom-built Splashers zone is a family friendly paradise; while youngsters zoom down the kid-friendly waterslides and dodge the spills from the giant buckets at Splashers Mountain, parents can relax with peace of mind as lifeguards watch over the water.
Atlantis Kids' Club and Teens Zone
We're sure your little VIPs will be desperate to get stuck into new adventures whilst making friends along the way, so where better for them to let off some steam than their very own wonderland? Atlantis Kids' Club - targeted at youngsters aged four to twelve - is bursting at the seams with activities, promising to wear out even the most tireless of tots. Whether it's tackling one of the two climbing walls, watching a movie at the underwater theatre or perfecting an artistic masterpiece, little imaginations will be mesmerised by the never-ending list of things to do.
Teens might think they're too cool for 'kids' club', but they won't be able to resist The Zone. Designed to provide 13 to 17-year-olds with the parent-free space they need, this trendy hangout is brimming with state-of-the-art equipment and all the 'must-have' technology teens simply can't live without. Whilst budding musicians can choose from seven instruments, an open DJ deck and a karaoke corner, gamers can challenge their newly found friends on FIFA - or go 'old school' with a classic game of table football. The Zone is open until 11pm - so if parents fancy an evening alone, teenagers have their very own late-night hangout.
The Wavehouse
Opened in 2019, The Wavehouse isn't just a dining venue but an entertainment destination, pairing food and drinks with music, gaming, bowling, food and a state-of-the-art wave machine. Although built to look authentic and industrial from the exterior, inside you'll find state-of-the-art technology, high-energy activities and Wavehouse staff in happiness-inducing Hawaiian shirts. LEVELS is the venue's arcade area, housing a multi-level climbing frame for tireless tots, as well as an upper level with more than 50 arcade games including the world's largest Pac Man. If gaming isn't for you, try out the four-lane bowling alley in search of a lucky strike, or stick around until dusk when the music kicks in.
When hunger strikes, the Wavehouse's family friendly restaurant will leave even the fussiest eaters spoilt for choice. The menu features a mouthwatering medley of lunch, dinner and snack options, whether you fancy a feast or just a light bite. You can choose between health-conscious cuisine and comforting favourites, from twelve-piece oysters to instagrammable rainbow sliders, as well as a mind-boggling choice of to-die-for desserts - who could resist a soft-serve sundae topped with a tower of treats? If it's child-free fun you're looking for, head The Wavehouse's adults-only bar; there's eleven custom cocktails to keep you feeling refreshed, as well as a daily 'happy hour' and the soundtrack of resident DJs David De Luca and Chris Roberts.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium
Many have spent years searching for the lost city of Atlantis, but families staying at Atlantis, The Palm don't need to look any further. The Lost Chambers Aquarium brings you face-to-face with 65,000 marine creatures as you navigate your way through a maze of tanks and tunnels. In amongst the 21 exhibits, there's also chance to touch, feel and interact with some of the spectacular sea life, including starfish, horseshoe crabs and pencil urchins. Like everywhere at Atlantis, out-of-the-box ideas can be found throughout the aquarium; an augmented reality experience brings you up-close with penguins and polar bears, whilst yoga sessions surrounded by the fascinating underwater environment are truly unique.
Mini marine biologists in the making will love taking a Fish Tales Tour to the nursery, where they can interact with new-born jellyfish, seahorses and rays, before a visit to the fish kitchen and chance to feed the magical marine creatures. To get even closer to the fascinating fish below the surface, head over to the 11 million litre, 10-metre-deep Ambassador Lagoon for an 'Ultimate Snorkel' experience, letting you admire the underwater world with guidance from a marine expert.