Palm Jumeirah

Whether you see it from a plane, when skydiving, or while researching your dream trip online, Dubai’s iconic palm-shaped island is extraordinary.

This engineering marvel is synonymous with Dubai’s efforts to consistently evolve and make dreams come true. The neighbourhood offers an urban mix of island residences, glamorous five-star resorts, on-trend restaurants and chic beach clubs.

Whatever your scene, you’re sure to find it here. Get sun-soaked at the family-friendly Riva Beach Club or W Dubai’s WET Deck while enjoying top tunes, refreshing poolside dining and five-star facilities. There are many private hotel beaches along The Palm that can be accessed with a day pass, though its waters offer aquatic adventures for everyone.

Charter a luxury yacht and cruise along the vast coastline, or rev up the excitement with a speedboat ride and wakeboarding trips. In between the island’s ‘fronds’, and along the trunk, the waters are calmer, making it a popular choice for kayaking and paddle-boarding.

The five-star Atlantis, The Palm resort, located on the outer crescent, is a popular stop. The grand property is home to world-class restaurants by the likes of Nobu, Giorgio Locatelli and Gordon Ramsay, as well a waterpark, giant aquarium and more.

Step outside to the Palm Jumeirah boardwalk, which comes alive at dusk with tourists and residents all vying for the perfect selfie. Sit by the rocks or grab a bite at a nearby food truck, and watch the sky ablaze with colour. Bicycles are also available to rent, allowing you to pedal along the shoreline and take in panoramic vistas of the Arabian Gulf.

Looking for more to explore? Palm Jumeirah is home to the Nakheel Mall and The Pointe, both housing plenty of branded stores and family-friendly attractions. For relaxation lovers, a gentle walk along The Pointe’s 1.5km promenade is a tempting option, affording the best waterside views of Atlantis in the distance.

Getting there: If using the Dubai Metro, alight at either the Jumeirah Lakes Towers or Dubai Marina station and then take the Dubai Tram to the Palm Jumeirah stop. A short walk leads you to the Gateway station, which is the starting point for the Palm Jumeirah Monorail that runs along the main trunk of the island. Alternatively, take a water taxi to the Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah.