Exploring world map-shaped islands in Dubai: Have you been to this luxury resort in the middle of the ocean?

UAE and GCC residents get special discounts of up to 35 per cent

Sahim Salim

Published: Sat 1 Jul 2023, 6:00 AM

Last updated: Sat 1 Jul 2023, 9:46 PM

There is a ‘world’ waiting to be explored off the coast of Dubai. An archipelago designed to resemble the world map, The World has a total of 260 islands grouped under seven sets that represent different continents.

Covering over 230km of shoreline, the project’s three islands are currently open: Lebanon, Argentina and Heart of Europe. In the second of a three-part series, we set sail for Argentina.

Read the first part of the series here:

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Luxury resort in the ocean

A 15-minute boat ride from the Palm island takes visitors to The World’s first luxury resort, Anantara. Located on its own island 4km into the Arabian Gulf, the resort offers a unique perspective to Dubai’s famed skyline.

The property opened in December 2021 and boasts 68 rooms and villas. The private beach is “steps away from every room”.

35% off for UAE, GCC residents

According to Jeremie Lannoy, cluster director of Marketing and Communications, the resort’s most coveted offer is a UAE and GCC resident special. It provides “up to 35 per cent off on accommodation, complimentary daily breakfast for two, and Dh200 worth of resort credit for guests to redeem across either of the dining outlets or the spa”.

Rates start from Dh1,200 for this offer, according to the property’s website.

The resort tends to be busier over weekends, “attracting many guests from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC”.

“However, our weekdays also see an influx of international tourists seeking a longer city stay, sometimes in combination with a stay at Anantara the Palm,” added Lannoy.

The resort also welcomes visitors for extended stays. “Most commonly, guests who are seeking a tranquil, long-term escape choose to stay with us for a week or slightly longer. Their aim is typically to unwind completely without the need to travel far.”

How to get there

To reach the island, guests enjoy a serene boat ride, a service the resort operates from Anantara the Palm.

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It will soon be offering an additional boarding point at the J4 Marina in Umm Suqeim, which will reduce the travel time. Guests also can arrive on their own private boats.

Safety first

As the island is man-made, periodic maintenance is needed.

“Our diligent efforts are focused on moulding and maintaining the lush island vegetation, which forms an integral part of the island's allure. Additionally, understanding the water movement around the World Islands, particularly its effect on our beaches, remains paramount as we reinforce certain areas,” said Lannoy.

Water levels are monitored meticulously. “Over the course of the year, we've gained a deeper understanding of the tides and weather patterns, which aids us in preserving the beauty of our island.”