Latest news with #AtlantisDubai


Web Release
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Web Release
ATLANTIS, THE PALM UNVEILS 'A WORLD AWAY': A TRANSFORMATIVE NEW BRAND CAMPAIGN INSPIRED BY EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES
Atlantis, The Palm unveils 'A World Away', a visually striking and emotionally resonant brand campaign developed entirely in-house by the Atlantis Dubai team, in collaboration with an award-winning, globally recognized film crew. Created to reshape perceptions, spark imagination, and reignite global awareness, the campaign positions Atlantis, The Palm as far more than a holiday destination. It is a world rich with energy, wonder, and emotion—where guests are invited to leave the ordinary behind and step into the extraordinary. Whether it's a guest overcoming their fears on the iconic waterslide Leap of Faith, or a quiet moment spent face-to-face with marine life, every experience becomes a fulfilled dream. For the first time in Atlantis history, a campaign of this scale is conceived, produced, and executed entirely by the in-house brand and marketing teams—ensuring the final product is creatively ambitious, deeply authentic, and true to the spirit of the resort. To bring the story to life, the Atlantis team collaborates with Bruce Macdonald, winner of the New York Film Festival and International Film Talent Awards, whose cinematic direction anchors the emotional depth of the campaign. He is joined by Simon Duggan, the acclaimed Director of Photography behind The Great Gatsby and Hacksaw Ridge, and a two-time AACTA Award winner for Best Cinematography. The visual narrative is further enhanced by London-based photographer Jonathan Stokes, known for his work with National Geographic Traveler; FPV drone expert André Larsen, one of the world's top talents in aerial filming; and underwater cinematographer Mike Rall, founder of Base Films and a recognised leader in his field. Filming takes place across several of Atlantis, The Palm's most iconic locations, including the grand main lobby, the awe-inspiring Underwater Suite, the renowned Lost Chambers Aquarium, world-class culinary venues under the most Michelin-awarded destination in the region, and the record-breaking Aquaventure World. Visually, 'A World Away' is defined by a distinctive 80/20 composition principle—80% of each frame showcases the vast, dreamlike environment of Atlantis, while 20% highlights authentic human connection. This deliberate balance amplifies both the scale of the resort and the emotional impact of the experience that guests are invited to partake in. The campaign runs across digital, social, in-resort, and out-of-home platforms—not just in the UAE, but across key global markets including Saudi Arabia, the UK, USA, Australia, and Europe. To experience the campaign firsthand, watch it here and follow @atlantisthepalm on social media.


The National
6 days ago
- Business
- The National
Clean start: UAE hotel soaps recycled in drive to cut waste and boost hygiene
Each year, hotels across the UAE throw away an estimated 16 million bars of soap – many after just a single use. Now, a growing number of hotels are signing up to a grassroots recycling programme that is tackling the waste head-on, transforming used soap into new bars for communities in need. Launched in 2023, the Unisoap UAE initiative – powered by sustainability platform Goumbook and modelled on a French non-profit – is offering a rare win-win: cutting hospitality waste while boosting hygiene access for vulnerable groups. 'It's a practical solution that serves both people and planet,' says Goumbook founder Tatiana Antonelli Abella. 'And it's gaining momentum.' So far, Goumbook has distributed 10,000 recycled soaps under the initiative. Leading hotel brands supporting the campaign include Atlantis Dubai - which operates Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal - Saadiyat Rotana and Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. "We are proud to partner with Goumbook and Unisoap UAE to help transform soap that would otherwise be destined for the landfill into new soap bars for disadvantaged communities,' said Kelly Timmins, director of marine animal operations and sustainability at Atlantis Dubai, in a testimony shared on Goumbook's website. From luxury waste to vital resource Globally, 2.3 billion people still lack basic handwashing facilities at home, according to the World Health Organisation. Yet, in hotel suites across the world, soaps are routinely tossed out after a single use. 'We realised that soap is not just waste, it's a resource made from water and natural materials and it's vital for hygiene,' Ms Abella told The National. After early experiments with local start-ups, Goumbook formed a strategic partnership with Unisoap in France, leveraging its technical expertise to launch the UAE arm of the project. Today, the initiative works with 15 hotels, including major names such as Atlantis The Palm, Atlantis The Royal, Shangri-La Dubai, Rotana Saadiyat and Centara Mirage, with more coming on board. How soap is recycled Housekeeping staff are trained to separate used soaps into branded Unisoap boxes. These are collected monthly by recycling partners, then delivered to a soap lab where each bar undergoes a meticulous cleaning process: the outer layer is grated off by hand, soaps are thoroughly washed and then remanufactured – without mixing brands, colours or scents. 'The result is a high-quality bar that looks and smells just like new,' said Ms Abella. 'And crucially, there's no plastic or packaging involved.' Zero waste, big impact In keeping with World Environment Day's 2025 theme – cutting single-use plastic – Unisoap UAE goes beyond soap. Used hotel bed linens and towels are repurposed into washbags or reusable sponges to accompany the soaps in hygiene kits, distributed unpackaged to eliminate waste. The initiative reflects the UAE's increasing alignment with circular economy principles and environmental goals. 'We've designed this project to work hand in hand with national sustainability targets,' said Ms Abella. 'It's a practical solution that creates both environmental and social value.' So far, more than three tonnes of soap have been recycled through the initiative, benefiting low-income communities during Ramadan, as well as organisations such as the Al Ihsan Foundation in Sharjah, the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, the Giving Family, Amal Community and Happy Happy. Empowering women and educating communities The social impact is just as important as the environmental one. Unisoap UAE targets women and children as key recipients, and engages women in every level of the process – from hotel housekeeping staff to charity partners and end users. 'We often forget that not everyone has access to something as basic as soap,' said Ms Abella. 'Through this initiative, we also raise awareness about hygiene – how and why it matters.' The project operates through a combination of hotel contributions and corporate sponsorships. Sponsors can fund the production and distribution of soaps to specific communities while Goumbook covers early-stage costs to prove concepts and scale up. There are also plans ready to expand the model to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where interest is growing. Call to action: Join the circular economy To mark the Year of Community, Goumbook is organising clean-ups and community events across the UAE and is inviting residents to volunteer, donate or share ideas for future projects. Soap is just one piece of the puzzle, said Ms Abella. 'If we can change how we view waste – whether it's a bar of soap or a discarded towel – we can make a real difference. And we'd love more people to join us.'


The National
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Impressive Ramadan tents in the UAE, from Burj Al Arab's first to Emirates Palace's new majlis
Every year during the holy month, Ramadan tents add an element of festivity to iftar time. In addition to the wide variety of dishes served, here in the UAE, these purpose-built venues can be visual and architectural marvels. This year, these are some of the striking tents to visit around the emirates. By far one of the most famous iftar and suhoor destination in the UAE, Asateer Tent is back bigger than ever, this year including a new garden by the terrace. Set on a patch overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Palm Island, with a backdrop of Dubai's stunning skyline, this expansive tent features a modern decor with unique traditional Arabian touches. Up to 1,730 guests can dine each night with both indoor and outdoor dining options. Those looking for a bit of exclusivity can choose either the Royal Majlis or the VIP Majlis, which seat up to 20 or 14 guests respectively. Helmed by Atlantis Dubai's executive Arabic chef Ali El Bourji, the international buffet will feature a rotating theme each night for iftar, showcasing Arabic, Khaleeji, Persian and Turkish cuisine. For suhoor, visitors can expect live entertainment alongside a curated menu. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and priced at Dh285 per person on weekdays and Dh310 per person on weekends; suhoor is served from 10pm until 2.30am, with a minimum spend of Dh180 per person; Royal Majlis and VIP Majlis are charged separately; a smart casual dress code is enforced; Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai; 04 426 0800 The luxury desert destination has launched a Ramadan experience at its stunning camp, which has been transformed into an authentic Arabian spice market. Guests can book for iftar or suhoor seating and enjoy their meals amidst striking dunes in a specially designed setting. On the menu for iftar are a selection of Middle Eastern and international dishes, including live food stations, regional clay pot specialties such as fish sayadieh, tajines, curries and slow cooked spit roast lamb. After breaking their fast, guests can also go on camel rides and enjoy a falcon show as live oud players entertain. Suhoor entertainment includes a fire show as guests relax in the lounges and enjoy shisha and tea. The camp is also fully equipped with prayer tents for both men and women. Iftar is served from 5.30pm until 9pm and is priced at Dh590 for adults and Dh250 for children; suhoor is served from 9pm until midnight; Nara Desert Escape, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve; 050 336 7909 Iftar and suhoor at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab's first Ramadan tent is meant to be as memorable as visiting the Dubai landmark. With a menu designed by Solayman Hasan, the head chef of Al Iwan, the lavish spread includes live cooking stations, as well as elevated traditional Ramadan dishes for iftar. Three menus will be rotated throughout the holy month, with a separately designed suhoor menu. Guests will be entertained by live music every evening. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and priced at Dh360 per person; suhoor is available from 10pm until 1am on weekdays or until 2am on weekends and priced at Dh260 per person; Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai; 04 301 7333 Another UAE Ramadan staple, The Majlis by the Sea moves to a new location on the grounds of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental this year. The massive tent will feature pop-ups from the hotel's top restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Talea by Antonio Guida and Hakkasan Abu Dhabi. There will also be catering from their signature Indian restaurant Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi and Japanese Warayaki from Strawfire. The tent also features a Kids Palace, which includes iftar movie nights, Ramadan crafts and team-building games. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and priced at Dh355 per person; suhoor is served from 10pm until 2am featuring an a la carte menu with an average spend of Dh200 per person; Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi; 02 690 9000 Spread across 1,600 square metres and making its debut this Ramadan, Alsimrah is the largest tent in Sharjah, according to developer Arada. Located within the sprawling 2.2 square kilometre megaproject Aljada site close to the airport, the tent will offer a mix of Emirati and international delicacies for iftar and suhoor. For those who want a bit of exclusivity, a VIP Majlis with a set menu for a minimum of 15 guests is available. Entertainment and activities include storytelling sessions for kids, Arabic calligraphy and henna work as well as live oud and qanun performances. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and is priced at Dh195 per person; suhoor is served from 9.30pm until 2am and is a la carte, with a minimum spend of Dh80 per person; Aljada, Sharjah; 04 702 0600


Hi Dubai
13-02-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Atlantis Dubai Ranked Among Top 10 Global Integrated Resorts by Forbes Travel Guide 2025
Forbes Travel Guide ('FTG'), the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises, yesterday announced its 2025 Star Awards. Atlantis The Royal earned a Five-Star award for the second consecutive year, and Atlantis, The Palm earned a Four-Star award for the fourth consecutive year. Atlantis Dubai continues to prioritize building and nurturing a passionate, dedicated team devoted to delivering exceptional guest experiences. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, both properties have consistently showcased outstanding service, world-class amenities, and unparalleled hospitality. Atlantis The Royal's prestigious Five-Star award reaffirms its status as the world's leading ultra-luxury experiential resort, while Atlantis, The Palm's Four-Star recognition highlights its continuous exceptional performance. After debuting its restaurant star rating in Dubai last year, Forbes Travel Guide has, for the first time, awarded Five-Star ratings to select restaurants in the city. Atlantis Dubai was honored to have four of its exceptional dining venues receive this esteemed rating. Ossiano and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal were awarded Five-Stars, Seafire Steakhouse & Bar earned Four-Stars, and Ariana's Persian Kitchen received a Recommended rating. Recipients of this globally recognized award have demonstrated a unique and unwavering commitment to elevating the guest experience, further cementing Atlantis Dubai's position as a leader in the region's culinary landscape. Having pioneered the Five-Star Rating concept in 1958, Forbes Travel Guide is the world's only independent rating system. Its anonymous professional inspectors travel globally, staying a minimum of two nights and covering their own expenses. They evaluate properties based on 900 objective standards, focusing on outstanding service and ensuring discerning travelers can identify the finest luxury experiences. Star Ratings are awarded exclusively through this independent inspection process. Paul Baker, President of Atlantis commented, On behalf of Atlantis Dubai and Kerzner International, we are immensely proud to be recognized with a record-breaking 31 stars in the Forbes Travel Guide 2025, making us the most awarded resort in the Middle East and one of the tops achieving resorts globally. This achievement is a testament to our incredible team's dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment, who continuously strive to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality. Achieving such a high ranking among all integrated resorts worldwide reaffirms our mission to deliver extraordinary hospitality in the Middle East and beyond. Forbes Travel Guide's Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality. This year's list continues to reflect the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being, and delivering unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating truly world-class travel options for today's discerning guests. says Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. Atlantis Dubai Forbes Travel Guide 2025 Listing: Atlantis The Royal – Five-Star Rating Atlantis, The Palm – Four-Star Rating Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal - Five-Star Rating Ossiano at Atlantis, The Palm - Five-Star Rating Seafire Steakhouse & Bar at Atlantis, The Palm - Four-Star Rating Ariana's Persian Kitchen at Atlantis The Royal – Recommended Rating AWAKEN Wellness at Atlantis The Royal – Four-Star Rating AWAKEN Wellness at Atlantis, The Palm - Four-Star Rating News Source: Evins Communications