Business Growth and Demand for Homes
January 9, 2026
A huge resort is being built on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah. Why destination hotels matter for island property and what it could mean for owners.
Director of Research
Previously with Knight Frank's Global Research team. Michael brings deep expertise in cross-border capital flows and emerging market real estate dynamics.
On the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah, a vast resort is taking shape: Atlantis, with its distinctive arch, waterpark and aquarium. It is designed to be one of the island's main attractions and a destination for visitors from around the world. For property owners on the Palm, it could play an important role in establishing the island's identity.
A major resort brings visitors, restaurants, entertainment and jobs. It gives the island a reason for people to visit and makes it better known internationally. For residents, it adds amenities that would be difficult to provide otherwise.
A major resort also brings traffic and crowds, especially at peak times. Owners close to the resort should consider how visitor numbers might affect access and privacy. Infrastructure, including the island's connections to the mainland, will need to handle increased traffic.
The crescent is designed for hotels and resorts, giving the island a strong hospitality offering. Together with the residential fronds and trunk, it is intended to create a complete destination where people live, stay and visit.
Atlantis is scheduled to open in the coming years. Until then, its benefits remain in the future, and owners on the island will see it under construction. Its eventual opening could be a turning point for the Palm's reputation.
Atlantis has the potential to put Palm Jumeirah firmly on the global map and to support both lifestyle and rental demand for owners. Buyers should weigh its benefits against the traffic and activity it will bring, depending on where their property is located.