Palm Jumeirah

Dubai is globally recognised for its world firsts, and The Palm Jumeirah is an impressive example. Viewed from above, the man-made island resembles a stylised palm tree, which was built from reclaimed land mass and a series of artificial archipelagos.

Palm Jumeirah is home to some of Dubai's most luxurious resorts, including Atlantis The Palm, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, One&Only The Palm and many more. It is also packed with fantastic dining options worth visiting, such as Nobu and 101 Dining Lounge – even if you’re not staying at one of the many resorts.

set on the coast of the Arabian Sea, in the dynamic city of Dubai, Palm Jumeirah is an eye-catching landmark of the world. As the name suggests, it is built in the shape of a palm tree which is a common plant in the Middle East. The Palm Jumeirah island consists of the Trunk, the Crescent and 16 Fronds, together forming its unique shape. This area is home to an exceptional collection of luxury villas, townhouses, apartments and hotels. Boasting world-class facilities and aesthetic views, living in Palm Jumeirah is an experience in itself. You can find an assortment of gourmet restaurants, chic cafes, adventurous entertainment facilities that serve both the faint of heart and the adrenaline junkies.

The majestic man-made archipelago of Dubai, Palm Jumeirah is known all over the world as the synonym of beauty and elegance. The aerial view of this stunning island appears like a huge palm tree, which extends into the vast Persian Gulf. Considered to be the UAE’s first important tourism project, Palm Jumeirah is presently home to many of the major tourist destinations of Dubai including Atlantis, Lost Chambers Aquarium, and Aquaventure Waterpark.

The prime parts of Palm Jumeirah are referred to as Crescent, Spine, Trunk, and Fronds. The entrance part of this place happens to be the huge trunk that forms a bridge between the island and the mainland. Another bridge forms a connection between the Spine and the Trunk. The Crescent part happens to be the breakwater, which is linked with the Spine through a tunnel. The long and beautiful Fronds form the most amazing part of this island destination and its actual beauty can be witnessed by taking an aerial tour over the island in an aeroplane or helicopter. 

In addition to tourist destinations, Palm Jumeirah is also packed with a plethora of upmarket apartments, luxurious villas, lavish resorts, ritzy retails, and royal hotels, which are mainly positioned on the Crescent and Trunk. The place is also dotted with a number of elegant beach clubs and bars, which form the backbone of the bustling nightlife of the entire city. At the present day, this world-class artificial island shelters a vast population of more than 10,000.

How to Reach Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is situated at a distance of about 24 km from the city centre of Dubai and it is directly connected with a number of means of transport to the city. It takes about 30-40 minutes to cover the distance between the island and the city centre. 

By cabs: If you were new to Dubai, then it would be better to book cabs on rent to take you to the island without any inconveniences. 

By Monorail: If you wish to travel by public transport, then the best way to reach the island would be by taking a palm monorail that runs every 15 minutes from 9 AM in the morning to 9:45 PM in the evening.

Best Time to Visit Palm Jumeirah

The best time to visit the Palm Jumeirah Islands in Dubai is from the month of November to the month of April. January and February are both considered to be the peak tourist season as zillions of tourists come over to Dubai from all over the world to spend their holiday season.

At this time, the island of Palm Jumeirah mostly remains crowded with tourists and there is a slight hike in the prices of everything. If you are planning to come over to Dubai, then it would be better to book your accommodation and flights a bit early to save some bucks.

Fun things to do on Palm Jumeirah

The Palm is well developed with roads, tunnels and public transport. So you can easily access the various hotels, restaurants and attractions on the island. You can also hop aboard the Palm Monorail that runs to Atlantis that sits at the helm.

Sailing around Palm Jumeirah in a yacht or speedboat is also a popular option, with many private touring companies to choose from. Thrill-seekers can even skydive above the island for a truly unique experience. 

For a laidback evening, check out Club Vista Mare. The row of restaurants is built on a pier that stretches out over the water. Restaurant options include al fresco bites and enticing plates at Breeze Beach Grill and fresh seafood with an Arabic twist at Ibn AlBahr. Both offer beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s city skyline and the majestic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Al Ittihad Park

Al Ittihad Park is spread over an area of 1.1 million sq. ft. and happens to be one of the best places to visit in the Palm Jumeirah Island. The park was founded in the year 2012 and was open to the public on the 41st National Day celebration of UAE.

This is an eco-friendly designed park that also serves as the focal point of all residents and visitors coming over to the awe-inspiring Palm Jumeirah islands. The park has a 3.2 km long walking and jogging track and is home to numerous varieties of indigenous coastal, desert and mountainous plants and trees. 

Timings: 7 AM to 11 AM

The Lost Chambers Aquarium

The Lost Chambers Aquarium is sheltered inside the submerged Atlantis hotel on Palm Jumeirah island. In the present times, the lost chambers aquarium is the centre of tourist attraction in the islands. They are home to a world of various marine life and it is made up of many chambers and lagoons. The aquarium is themed as per the legendary mythical city of Atlantis.

There are more than 65,000 different marine animals in the aquarium that includes creatures like seahorses, sharks, rays, reef fish and many more. Tourists love to take part in various activities being arranged in the aquarium-like snorkelling, aquarium dives, aqua theatre shows, and fish tale tours. It is the best place in the Palm Jumeirah to rejuvenate your soul indulging in the exceptional experience. 

Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM

Nasimi Beach

Nasimi Beach happens to be a place that is widely held among the tourists who come to the coastline to spend some time with nature. One can go for sunbathing in the sunbeds and wish to relax at any of the cabanas to enjoy the host of the Mediterranean cuisine at the beachfront restaurants.

Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM

Skydive over the Palm Jumeirah

Skydiving is yet another adventure sport that tourists love to try out. Falling from great heights with a parachute on the back is an incredible experience. You will be given a small introductory lesson on the jump and then you will be flying in an aircraft from which you will jump out as it moves over the islands.

You will dive out of the aircraft moving at a speed of about 120 mph and it is surely an ultimate adrenaline pumping activity to try out. You will see amazing eye-popping views of the surreal Palm Jumeirah island, Dubai Marina and the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. 

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

Enjoy Sunset Sips at the Penthouse

The penthouse is located on the 16th floor of an Ultra-luxe Five Hotel. This is an adult-only place and offers amazing views of the Dubai Marina Skyline. This is a place known for its amazing offerings such as the penthouse pool session, food and drink vouchers, and massage sessions.

If you are someone who loves to party at night time then come here with your friends and party with the backdrop of mesmerizing scenery. 

Timings: 12 PM – 5 AM

Spy the iconic sights of Dubai

If you have less time to spare in the city of Dubai, then the best way to have a glimpse of the city would be taking a City Circuit Helicopter Tour that departs from Atlantis. The tour is of 25 minutes and it gives the tourists a bird’s eye view of the Palm Jumeirah, the nearby World Islands, Burj Khalifa and Burj al Arab.

You will surely have a great time flying over the city sighting a number of tourist attractions and heritage corners of the Old Town and Dubai Creek. 

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

Aquaventure waterpark

Atlantis is definitely one of the most recognized landmarks on the entire island and with its own waterpark, you get to unleash the inner child in you by riding on record-breaking waterslides and many other fun rides. You could also choose to relax by the private beach with your favorite cocktail and call it a day.

Dolphin Bay

Atlantis is full of surprises and you will be engaged throughout without any doubt. You can swim with the dolphins, go snorkeling or drive through lagoons. Getting up close and personal with the dolphins is going to be worth your time.

Dining Options at Palm Jumeirah

Nobu

This dining option is located at the prestigious hotel Atlantis in Palm Island. This offers a rooftop ambience for tourists to dine out. The restaurant is widely held for its amazing Japanese offerings infused in the cooking techniques of South America.

The décor of the place is upmarket and you will definitely have a great time listening to the pleasant music and ambient mood lighting. The must-try delicacies of the Nobu Restaurant in Dubai are Sushi and Lobster.

Timings: 12:30 PM – 4 PM and 7 PM to 12 AM. 

101 Dining Lounge and Bar

101 Dining Lounge and Bar has a perfect ambience gittering with designer showpieces and hanging lights in the city of luxury. It offers amazing views of the city and the beach, especially at night. You can enjoy a wide range of menu and live musical performances.

The most recommended delicacies of this place are Pasta, Seafood Paella, and Beef Tenderloin.

Timings: 11:30 AM – 2 AM. 

Ibn Al Bahr

The luxurious aura of Ibn Al Bahr will drive you crazy. This restaurant is mainly famous for its seafood offerings. The restaurant has high ceilings and beautiful wall-length windows that offer an amazing view of the glittering Dubai city at night.

The best part of this place is its well-curated service that lets you relish a sumptuous meal accompanied by the best background live music. The must-try delicacies of this place are Fish Grill and Tandoori Prawns. 

Timings: 12 PM – 12 AM. 

Zest

Zest Restaurant, located in One & Only The Palm, is primarily known for its awe-striking Arabic architecture which gives it a completely distinct look. You can either dine inside the restaurant, or you can choose to dine under the shaded terrace, which is a unique experience. Western cuisine, blended with authentic Arabic touch makes the food absolutely delicious!

social by Heinz Beck

What if you are in Dubai, but you suddenly start to crave for an Italian touch? You may not be able to experience the architecture and history of Italy, but at least you can feel as close to Italy as possible through Italian cuisine. And that is why if you ever crave for Italian cuisine, then the Social by Heinz Beck, located in Waldorf Astoria, is where you should be. A special menu designed by the 3-star Michelin Chef Heinz Beck where you can find the regular dishes along with celebratory signature dishes that specialize in Italian and European cuisine. Don’t forget to try the chef’s signature ‘fagotelli carbonara’ whenever you are here!

Places To Stay In Palm Jumeirah

FIVE Palm Jumeirah Resort

If you are watching out for a lifestyle resort in Dubai that is embraced with glitz and glamour then there is no better place to stay except the FIVE Palm Jumeirah Resort. It is such a place in Palm Island where you can have loads of fun and take part in a wide range of activities.

The stay offers you to choose from a wide range of rooms that are elegant and at the same time provide an incredible view of the beach. The resort has it's in-house spa, cafes, bars, lounges, and restaurants. 

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Anantara is the true destination for a luxury holiday stay on Palm Jumeirah island. It offers a perfect beachfront luxury for the tourists and has some of the extensive offerings starting from spa treatments to the latest innovations in the health and wellness products.

The spa treatment at this place is tailor-made and would definitely make your stay worth it. 

Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah

It is a perfect five-star luxury resort in Dubai that is widely held for its upscale rooms and suites.The hotel has plenty of penthouses and villas that offer amazing scenic views of the city as well as the beach.

You can choose to relax and unwind yourself at the spa Cinq Mondes Spa and Fitness Centre, which offers amazing personalized treatments for relaxing your body and mind. 

One&Only The Palm Dubai

One&Only The Palm is arguably the most exclusive luxury hotel on Palm Jumeirah. With architecture inspired by Andalusia’s Moorish palaces, cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno and beachfront accommodation, this place is dripping with splendour.

One&Only is perfect for those seeking an intimate and highly luxurious experience. Take in awe-inspiring panoramic views over the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline. Climb aboard the private boat and step into the city, or enjoy the 850-square meter infinity pool with its spectacular double daybeds to relax, as well as an adults-only pool for a more private dip.

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island and enjoys a private sandy beach, the 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Free WiFi is available throughout the entire property.

All the Arabian and oceanic décor inspired rooms feature a balcony with scenic views. They include a flat-screen satellite TV, a seating area, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities and a mini bar. Some rooms include a stunning large terrace with panoramic views of the palm or an oversized spa bath located in the center of the bathroom.

Essential Information about Palm Jumeirah 

• Location: The Palm Jumeirah is located on the Crescent Road of Dubai in UAE. 

• Timing: The Palm Jumeirah island can be accessed 24 hours, all through the week. The timing of the various nightclubs, restaurants, and retail shops may vary. 

• Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for visiting Palm Jumeirah. The visitors only need to pay for their personal activities and experiences. 

• No. of hotels and resorts: There are over 21 hotels, hotel residences, and resorts on Palm Jumeirah. 

• No. of restaurants and cafes: There are over 80 cafes and restaurants on Palm Jumeirah

Tips for Visiting Palm Jumeirah

• It is best recommended to visit the Palm islands in between the months of November and April. However, if you want to avoid the crowd on the island, then it would be better to avoid the months of January and February. 
• You should carry all the personal identification and immigration documents with you at all times.
• You should pay proper respect to the cultures of Dubai. You should make sure that you wear proper clothes while going out in public as well as visiting any places of worship. 
• You should drink enough water in the course of your stay in Dubai to avoid being dehydrated because of the high temperatures.