NEWS h SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL REPORT


Emirates, British Airways and other carriers,” added Charalambous. He was also keen to dispel a


myth that Atlantis, The Palm is only for families or thrill-seekers. “We offer a diverse range of


experiences, from serene adult-only areas and Michelin-starred dining to luxurious spa treatments and private beach escapes,” he said. “Another misconception is that


we’re exclusively ultra-luxury, but we have a variety of accommodation and packages to suit different budgets.”


Family preferences Families tend to book between four months and a year in advance, particularly for peak seasons such as school holidays and Easter, he noted. “Te best time to visit depends on


preferences,” added Charalambous. “Winter (November to April) offers


perfect weather, while summer (June to August) comes with great deals and indoor entertainment options.” He highlighted how the resort


“continuously” upgrades facilities, offers new atractions and introduces seasonal experiences “to keep Atlantis fresh and exciting for repeat and first-time visitors”. Atlantis Explorers Club, which


travelweekly.co.uk


Agents can


emphasise our unique family experiences and customise packages to different family ages


can cater for up to 400 children, has been redesigned. Tose aged up to three can use the Litle Explorers soſt play area, with a new parent-supervised play area. In all, there are 10 specialised areas, offering activities such as culinary workshops, a mini village, reading nook, gaming and arts and craſts. Another recent development


saw Swedish chef Björn Frantzén make his Middle East debut with the opening of Studio Frantzén, a modern European bistro, and FZN by Björn Frantzén – sibling to the three-Michelin-starred Frantzén in Stockholm and Zén in Singapore.


Selling tips Asked about selling tips for UK agents, Charalambous advised: “They can emphasise unique family


experiences – such as Aquaventure World, the Lost Chambers Aquarium and marine mammal activities – and customise packages to cater to different family sizes and ages. “Atlantis Explorers Club is


perfect for younger kids, while Te Zone caters to teens with gaming, music and social spaces. “Family suites or interconnecting


rooms ensure families have space and privacy, and agents can highlight the dining flexibility and Atlantis Dubai as a culinary destination.” Te resort also caters for children


with special needs, he continued. Accessible rooms have features


such as wider doorways, roll-in showers and grab bars, while services include wheelchair rental, accessible transportation arrangements and assistance with navigating the resort. Staff are trained to help guests


with special requirements and Atlantis Dubai has earned the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. Charalambous was also keen to


highlight the resort’s sustainability initiatives, describing them as “of utmost importance”. “Sustainability is something which


our guests and agents oſten want to learn more about,” he said, noting how Atlantis Dubai – which comprises Atlantis, Te Palm and Atlantis Te Royal – has an on-site water botling plant, food waste reduction technology in all buffet restaurants and 2,178 rooſtop solar panels. Additionally, the resort runs the


Atlantis Atlas Project, which was launched to “do business in ways that are good for people and the planet”. Te ‘Atlantis Atlas Project 1 USD’


initiative has raised $386,000 since its inception in 2021. In the 12 months to May 2024, for every marine animal experience that a guest participated in, Atlantis Dubai contributed $1, resulting in a $126,000 fund, which supports ocean and environmental projects. Charalambous said the fund this year will continue to support six organisations from previous years, as well as two new organisations.


6 MARCH 2025 11


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PICTURES: Atlantis Dubai; Jonathan Stokes Photography highlights family focus


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