In Dubai, the Atlantis, The Palm resort hosted more than 500,000 visitors last year. With the upcoming Dubai Expo 2020 projected to attract 25 million visitors over a period of six months, the property recently emerged from a major renovation to accommodate the projected influx of visitors.
“Ahead of Expo 2020 we undertook a program that has updated our property with contemporary flair while staying true to the property’s iconic heritage. Revamped and revitalized, it has been stylishly upgraded while still keeping the soul of Atlantis alive,” said Timothy Kelly, EVP/managing director, Atlantis Resorts & Residences. “We are maintaining our focus on customer needs and demands and constantly evolving.”
As part of the refurbishment program, operator Kerzner International Resorts tapped UAE-based architects WA in 2017 to update the resort's suites with a contemporary underwater design and implemented integrated technology with sound bars and touch screen panels.
The refurbishment program also introduced four new restaurants, including Wavehouse, an entertainment destination with the world’s largest Pac Man, a bowling alley and the world’s first three-axis virtual reality simulator. Other restaurants are Hakkasan, poolside burger concept Beach Buns and the introduction of beachside venue White Beach & Restaurant complete with an infinity pool and uninterrupted views of Dubai’s skyline. (All-day-dining restaurant Kaleidoscope received a complete refurbishment in 2018.)
In 2020, Aquaventure Waterpark is set to become one of the world’s largest with the addition of the 111-foot Trident Tower, which will feature 12 rides, including Dubai’s first-ever ProSlide Dueling hybrid ride and the world’s longest waterslide.
The hotel's Imperial Club service has relaunched with a new 3,091-square-meter lounge in the East Tower. The space sits over two floors and offers complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, cocktails and canapés over the course of a day.
Additional refurbished guest areas include The Zone, a teen-only hangout for ages 13 to 17, Plato’s Lounge serving breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails and the concierge and VIP check-in lounge. Sun loungers located on The Royal Beach, Royal Pool and zero-entry pool have also been replaced for a cleaner, more modern look.