Whether this is your first trip to Dubai, or you’ve been here before, if you have never seen ‘Atlantis, The Palm’ along the crescent of Palm Jumeirah then it’s probably time to set that right. The 5-star ocean-themed resort, covers an area that is equivalent to the size of 64 Wembley football pitches, features over 65,000 marine animals in 2.5 million gallons of water. The beauty of the resort’s architecture and surrounding landscapes comes alive at night when the entire area is lit up, making it a sight to remember.
If you want to go back in time then ‘The Lost Chambers Aquarium’ is a must-visit attraction. Themed around the lost civilization of ancient Atlantis, the underwater aquarium takes visitors through dimly lit alleys and halls that are filled with interesting and eerie props that get more attention than the marine life forms around.
For a good time of splashing and sliding around in waterslides, head to Aquaventure Waterpark, which is right around the corner of the resort. Having won the title of the world’s fifth largest waterpark and the best in the Middle East, Aquaventure Waterpark features several adventurous, computer automated water rides amidst beautiful gardens with spectacular views of the ocean. Try the ‘The Leap of Faith’ slide that sends its riders plummeting through a 60-foot slide in five seconds, into a clear tunnel submerged in a shark-filled lagoon, or try some of the less extreme water rides that are also suitable for children. There’s no better way to beat the heat!
Stay refreshingly cool by swimming, or scuba diving with the dolphins at Dolphin Bay – an 11-acre lagoon where you could get in the water and interact with dolphins under the supervision of marine experts. The dolphin experience is suitable for all ages and should be on your list of ‘things to do when in Dubai.’
Visitors can take a break from these adrenaline-filled activities and head to the Jumeirah Open Beach, which is a long stretch of clean white sand and clear blue waters. The beach facilities include a jogging track, walking path, kitesurfing, soap football, beach tennis, beach volleyball nets, kayaking and Kite Beach Kiosks, all making it a perfect R&R spot for the family.
Although the well-connected metro network takes you to all of the nearby attractions, hiring a taxi would be the quickest and easiest way to head off to this thrilling corner of Dubai city.
