Atlantis the Palm Dubai Luxury Family Resort Hotel exterior with waterpark access

Atlantis The Palm Dubai Review + 6 More Luxury Family Resorts (2025)

model of the atlantis palm hotel dubai

⭐ 5-star luxury resort
📍 Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for: Families who want waterpark thrills with luxury touches
💰 From £350/night
👉 Check current prices and availability here

Dubai has become one of the world’s top luxury destinations for families. With year-round sunshine, world-class resorts, and endless activities for kids, it’s no surprise so many parents choose Dubai for their next big holiday.

When my family stayed at Atlantis The Palm Dubai, it was the first time I’d experienced a resort that truly catered to both children and parents at a luxury level. Even now, 8 years later, I can still remember the ease, fun, and indulgence that made the holiday unforgettable.

In this Atlantis The Palm Dubai review, I’ll share our personal experience of Atlantis The Palm ( plus our trip to Legoland Dubai) — from the iconic Aquaventure Waterpark to the thoughtful details that made it magical for our young family — plus 6 more luxury family resorts in Dubai worth considering. If you’re planning a stress-free getaway that balances fun for the kids with indulgence for the grown-ups, this guide will help you choose the perfect resort.


First Impressions & Check-In

My dad booked our holiday to Dubai through a travel agent. It was a once in a lifetime family holiday to celebrate his 60th Birthday. It was even more special for us because my sister flew over from Australia with her 2 children ( whom I’d never met at this point) ! So as you can imagine, the whole family were very excited!

Even the moment you arrive in Dubai it feels extraordinary. Dubai International Airport itself is vast and ultra-modern, with endless moving walkways and a sense of scale that hits you straight away. Stepping into a taxi, the journey feels like a tour in itself — you’re immediately surrounded by pure luxury, from the sleek supercars cruising past to the towering Burj Khalifa glittering in the distance. And then, as you make your way along the Palm, the excitement builds — until finally you see Atlantis The Palm rising up ahead of you like something out of a movie.

Walking into Atlantis The Palm is an experience in itself. The grand lobby feels almost overwhelming at first — soaring ceilings, chandeliers, and the scent of perfumed air drifting through the cool air-conditioning. It’s the kind of detail you don’t expect, but it makes you instantly feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Everywhere you turn there are high-end boutiques and jewellery shops, almost like you’re inside a luxury shopping mall rather than a hotel !

Rooms & Accommodation

We had a spacious interconnecting room with our children, with a balcony overlooking the pool. The beds were blissfully comfortable, and the kids adored the daily towel animals left by housekeeping — a small but magical touch. Infact, it became a fun daily game to guess what animal we’d find next, and it added so much joy to returning to the room. It’s these thoughtful, family-friendly details that make the stay feel magical for children as well as parents.

Families can request cots, connecting rooms, or upgrade to Imperial Club for exclusive lounge access, complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening drinks. For us, this upgrade was worth it — not only for the calmer atmosphere but also because it cut down on the cost of snacks and extras.

Why Families Love Atlantis The Palm

  • Aquaventure Waterpark 🏝️
    A full-scale waterpark right on site. My kids could have stayed there all day. Arrive early to avoid queues, and don’t forget water shoes.
  • The Lost Chambers Aquarium 🐠
    Magical tunnels filled with marine life — perfect downtime after a busy morning in the sun.
  • Kids’ Clubs & Activities 🎨
    Supervised play gave us time to enjoy the spa or a quiet dinner.
  • Dining Options 🍴
    With over 20 restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Families will love Wavehouse with its arcade and bowling, while adults can book fine dining at Nobu or Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen (definitely book ahead).
  • Babysitting Services 👩‍👧‍👦
    One evening we booked a babysitter so we could enjoy a relaxed dinner. It was reassuring and allowed us to have some grown-up time.
  • On-Site Doctor’s Surgery 👩‍⚕️
    When our toddler became poorly, the on-site clinic was a lifesaver. Quick, professional care without the stress of leaving the resort.

We were especially grateful for the on-site doctors surgery when our daughter (who was 2 at the time) suddenly became poorly. We were able to get her seen quickly without the stress of leaving the resort or figuring out where to go in a new city. The service was professional, reassuring, and a real lifesaver during what could have been a very stressful situation. For families, knowing that medical help is right there if you need it gives huge peace of mind.

Another family-friendly service we really valued was the resort’s babysitting option. We booked it one evening so that the adults could enjoy a relaxed dinner at Gordon Ramsay’s steak restaurant, knowing our little one was safe and cared for. It was such a treat to have a grown-up night out in the middle of a family holiday — and it showed how well Atlantis balances fun for kids with luxury for parents.

Facilities & Extras

  • Multiple pools plus direct beach access
  • Imperial Club lounge for upgraded guests
  • Spa, wellness, and fitness centre
  • High-end boutiques and jewellery stores
  • Fun extras like a gourmet ice cream parlour

We upgraded to the Imperial Club, and it honestly made such a difference to our stay. Every afternoon we could pop into the Club Lounge for complimentary afternoon tea, which quickly became a daily treat. The lounge felt calmer and more exclusive than the main areas, and it gave us a little pocket of peace as a family. For parents, it also makes the stay more cost-effective — with breakfast, snacks, and even evening drinks included, you end up spending less on extras around the resort.

And the ice-cream parlour was fantastic, you could mix any combination of flavours and fillings you wanted into your own creation.

The attention to detail at the Atlantis carries through everywhere, even the poolside toilets, which were spotless and beautifully designed. It’s this mix of scale, luxury, and family-friendly touches that makes Atlantis feel so unique.

Dining at Atlantis

From casual beachside bites to world-renowned fine dining, Atlantis offers more than 20 restaurants. For families, the variety is a blessing — even picky eaters are catered for. Our personal highlight was afternoon tea in the Imperial Club Lounge, which became a daily ritual.

Atlantis The Palm: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Huge on-site waterpark (Aquaventure) + aquarium
  • Multiple pools + direct beach access
  • Amazing kids’ clubs and family suites
  • Grand lobby with perfumed air-conditioning + luxury shopping arcade
  • Wide choice of dining options (20+ restaurants, including family-friendly)
  • Memorable touches: ice cream parlour, spotless poolside facilities
  • On-site doctor’s surgery → peace of mind if children fall ill
  • Babysitting service → adults can enjoy luxury dining experiences

Cons

  • Very large resort → can feel busy in peak season
  • Premium price point (rooms + on-site food are expensive)
  • Location on the Palm = longer transfers into central Dubai
  • Luxury shopping + extras may feel unnecessary for some families

Insider Tips

  • If you’re not staying at Atlantis, you can still book a day pass to Aquaventure Waterpark here.
  • Pack a waterproof phone case — it keeps your phone safe while you capture memories in the pool or on the slides and you can put any lose items like your hotel room key card in them . Honestly, it’s a must-pack item.
  • Stay cool by hiring your own Cabana. Perfect for keeping hot kids out the mid day sun and for a cozy spot by the pool.

Final Verdict

Atlantis The Palm is a true “city within a resort” that blends adventure, luxury, and family-friendly service. Even all these years later, I still remember how “easy” it felt. Everything we needed was in one place — activities, food, relaxation.Yes, it’s busy and not cheap — but for families looking for an unforgettable Dubai experience where every detail is thought of, it delivers in a way few hotels can.

👉 Check current prices and availability here
👉 Or book a day pass to Aquaventure Waterpark if you’re staying elsewhere.

Ready to stay at Atlantis the Palm?

Check current prices and availability below:


Our Family Day at LEGOLAND Dubai

My sister is a Lego fanatic and insisted on going to Legoland Dubai whilst we were in Dubai, it was certainly a highlight of the trip. We got a taxi from the hotel which took about 50 minutes each way. I found it quite amusing that at this time we hadn’t even been to Legoland UK so to be visiting the Dubai park first felt quite luxurious! Better still, we visited ‘off season’ in February and practically had the entire place tour ourselves ! The kids loved the freedom of just being able to run from one ride to another without having to queue once!

Top Tip: If you plan of visiting Legoland Dubai, I’d definitely suggest going during off peak times. We got far more value for our money in Dubai than the time we visited Legoland UK in May .We literally only managed to get on a handful of rides during the entire day and the queues were horrendous.

  • Best Ages: Perfect for ages 3–12. Our little ones loved the themed rides, while older kids enjoyed building zones and roller coasters.
  • Family Tip: Go early in the day and bring hats — much of the park is outdoors.
  • Where to Stay: If you plan to spend more than one day exploring Dubai Parks (LEGOLAND, Motiongate, Bollywood Parks), consider staying at Lapita Resort (Polynesian-themed, right inside the park).

👉 If your family loves theme parks, this part of Dubai is unmissable. You can pre-book your LEGOLAND Dubai tickets on Viator, which saves both time and money — especially during busy holiday weeks.

👉 Suggestion: If you’re planning to do LEGOLAND and Motiongate together, staying at Lapita puts you right inside the park.

Other Luxury Family Resorts in Dubai Worth Considering

Jumeirah Beach Hotel Dubai – Best Family Resort for Beachfront Fun

  • Why Go: Famous for its wave-shaped design and direct access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.
  • For Families: Huge rooms, connecting suites, and multiple pools.
  • Tip: Ask for a room with Burj Al Arab views — magical at night.

Best for: Families who want easy access to Wild Wadi Waterpark and spacious rooms with iconic Dubai views.

With its iconic wave-shaped design, Jumeirah Beach Hotel feels instantly recognisable, and it’s brilliant for families who want space. The hotel has huge rooms and connecting suites, so even bigger families don’t feel cramped. Plus, having Wild Wadi Waterpark right next door means unlimited fun just steps from your room.

Pros: Huge family rooms, direct Wild Wadi access.
Cons: Can feel very busy during peak family holiday weeks.


Jumeirah Al Naseem Dubai – Best Luxury Family Hotel with Modern Style

  • Why Go: Part of the Madinat Jumeirah complex — modern design, upscale yet family-friendly.
  • For Families: Private beach, plenty of restaurants, kids’ facilities.
  • Style: More contemporary than Jumeirah Beach Hotel, perfect if you prefer sleek interiors.

Best for: Style-conscious families who want a modern, contemporary resort with private beach access.

Sleek and stylish, Al Naseem has a more contemporary vibe than many Dubai resorts. Families love the private beach and modern restaurants, but one of the highlights is the turtle rehabilitation lagoon — kids adore watching the turtles while parents enjoy the upscale atmosphere.

Pros: Chic design + unique turtle lagoon.
Cons: Feels more adult-oriented; less “theme park buzz” than Atlantis.


The Ritz-Carlton Dubai – Best Family-Friendly Resort for Relaxed Luxury

  • Why Go: A beachfront property with lush gardens.
  • For Families: Family suites, children’s programs, and a quieter vibe compared to Atlantis.
  • Style: More intimate, less busy, great for parents who want luxury without overstimulation.

Best for: Families who prefer a quieter, garden-style resort with plenty of space and a calmer vibe.

The Ritz-Carlton feels like an oasis compared to Dubai’s mega-resorts. With lush gardens, quieter pools, and a slower pace, it’s ideal for families who want luxury without the constant buzz. Parents love the attentive service, while kids enjoy the spacious suites and children’s programs.

Pros: Calm, garden-style setting with attentive service.
Cons: Less entertainment on-site compared to Atlantis or Jumeirah.

Ready to stay at the Ritz?

Check price and availability below.


Anantara The Palm Dubai – Best Villa Resort for Families

  • Why Go: Unique villa-style stays (including overwater villas).
  • For Families: Lagoon-style pools, private beach, and lots of space.
  • Tip: Book a villa if you want extra privacy — especially great for larger families.

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in an overwater villa but didn’t fancy the flight to the Maldives, Anantara is your answer. Families love the lagoon-style pools and the sense of privacy that comes with villa living, while still having restaurants and activities nearby.

Pros: Unique overwater + villa-style stays.
Cons: More spread out — families may need to walk further to facilities.

👉 Staying in a villa-style resort? Grab my Luxe Family Villa Packing List for an organised, stress-free holiday.

Best for: Families who want the privacy of a villa or overwater suite while still enjoying luxury resort facilities.


One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai – Best Resort for Families with Teens

  • Why Go: Classic Arabian design, elegance, and long stretches of private beach.
  • For Families: Better suited to families with older kids/teens.
  • Style: Quieter and more refined, ideal for families who want luxury + culture.

Best for: Families with teens who appreciate culture, elegance, and a less crowded luxury experience.

For families with teens or older kids, this is a stunning option. The architecture is pure Arabian elegance, with courtyards, mosaics, and long stretches of private beach. It’s quieter and more refined, making it ideal if you want culture and calm rather than waterpark thrills.

Pros: Beautiful Arabian design + private beach.
Cons: Not much in the way of rides/attractions for younger kids.


Lapita Dubai Parks & Resorts – Best Family Hotel for Theme Park Access

  • Why Go: Located inside Dubai Parks & Resorts, giving families easy access to LEGOLAND, Motiongate, and more.
  • For Families: Polynesian-themed fun with direct entry to the parks.
  • Tip: Great if you’re planning a multi-day theme park adventure.

Best for: Families planning to spend several days at Dubai Parks & Resorts (LEGOLAND, Motiongate, Bollywood Parks).

Lapita is Polynesian-themed and right inside Dubai Parks & Resorts, which means you can walk straight to LEGOLAND, Motiongate, and Bollywood Parks. It’s colourful, fun, and designed to feel immersive — kids love the tropical vibe while parents love not having to deal with taxis for park days.

Pros: Walkable access to theme parks.
Cons: Location feels more theme-park than luxury beachfront.

Family Planning Guide for Dubai Resorts

Best Time to Visit with Kids

Dubai is warm year-round, but timing really does make a difference for families.

  • October–April → This is the sweet spot. With temps around 25–32°C, you can enjoy the pools, beaches, and parks without worrying about heat exhaustion.
  • May–June → Shoulder season. It’s hotter, but manageable if you plan mornings outside and afternoons in the resort. Prices tend to drop, which can be a bonus.
  • July–August → Not for the faint-hearted! Expect 40°C+ heat, which limits you to indoor attractions and air-conditioned resorts. On the plus side, this is when you’ll find the biggest discounts.

My take: if you’re travelling with younger kids, October–April gives you the most stress-free family holiday.

Resort Dining Hacks

Luxury dining in Dubai can get expensive — but a few smart tips can save families a fortune:

  • Many resorts offer half-board deals (breakfast + dinner). This often works better than all-inclusive since you’ll likely be out exploring at lunchtime.
  • Keep an eye out for “Kids Eat Free” promotions — Atlantis and Jumeirah run these regularly.
  • Buffets are plentiful and usually include child-friendly stations (think pasta, pizza, and desserts).

Tip: pre-book popular restaurants before you travel — especially if you’re eyeing places like Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen or Nobu.

Waterpark Hacks

Dubai’s waterparks are epic, but a little prep goes a long way:

  • At Atlantis Aquaventure, head straight to the big rides first — queues build fast. It’s also worth checking that all of the water park is operating when you book (I wish I’d known this, as the lazy river was closed during our visit, which was a huge disappointment!)
  • At Wild Wadi, consider renting a shaded cabana if you’re travelling with little ones. It’s worth it for the comfort and downtime.
  • Don’t forget the essentials: I highly recommend water shoes for kids (the ground gets scorching) and UPF 50 rash vests for sun protection. Both are must-packs for peace of mind.

Cultural Tips for Families

Dubai is modern and family-friendly, but it’s still important to respect local culture:

  • Dress modestly in malls and markets (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Alcohol is only served in licensed hotel venues.
  • During Ramadan, avoid eating and drinking in public during daylight hours.

Resorts are relaxed, but a little cultural awareness goes a long way.

Budgeting for Extras

Even at luxury resorts, extras can add up quickly. Here’s what to expect:

  • Transport: Taxis are surprisingly affordable for short trips, but many families still opt for resort transfers for convenience.
  • Activities: Dolphin encounters, desert safaris, or camel rides can add £100–£200 a day for a family of four. These are unforgettable, but best planned in advance so you’re not hit with surprise costs.

Final Thoughts

Dubai is an unbeatable family destination — where luxury meets convenience. From waterparks to theme parks, private beaches to overwater villas, there’s truly something for every type of family.

For us, Atlantis The Palm will always stand out. Even after 8 years, I can still remember the ease and indulgence — the perfumed lobby, towel animals in our room, afternoon tea in the Imperial Club, and knowing a doctor was right there when we needed it. Add in a magical day at LEGOLAND Dubai, and it became one of those family trips you never forget.

👉 Want to plan your own Dubai adventure?

Dubai is more than just a holiday — it’s an experience. And with the right resort, it can be one that’s as relaxing for parents as it is exciting for kids.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Luxe Family Getaways.

✨📌 Save this Dubai family travel guide to Pinterest for when you’re ready to book your escape.

Similar Posts

3 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *