Atlantis Aquaventure or Wild Wadi Waterpark
The great number of exceptional recreational facilities has always played a significant, pivotal role in the number of tourists Dubai welcomes every year. You might give it a shot and try to count these attractions, which will prove harder than you might imagine, but why count when you can compare? And what better subject for comparison than waterparks, as they hold a very high place in Dubai’s recreational facilities list. We all know and might even be highly familiar with UAE scorching heat, and that is exactly where the Wild Wadi or the Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park come to save the day.
Two of Dubai’s most popular water parks, each with their own fan base and unique characteristics are our subject of discussion today. In this article, we will introduce them in every respect so if you’re planning a trip to Dubai and are unsure which waterpark to choose, you’ll be armed with every information to know which one deserves your time and money.
Wild Wadi Water Park: What to Expect
Wild Wadi Water Park is perhaps the most recognised water park as it is the first and oldest one in Dubai. Filled with thrilling attractions, it was first established in 1978, featuring pools with adjustable water temperatures. Wild Wadi is unique in its Arabian folklore theme, based on Juha, which adds a touch of culture to your experience. This iconic water park is located comfortably in the Jumeirah area, right between the iconic Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
Like so many things in Dubai, Wild Wadi boasts a world record, in this case for the tallest water slide. In this thrilling water slide called Jumeirah Sceirah, you will reach speeds of 80 kilometers per hour, which might look like a frightening prospect for some and a dream come true for the adrenaline junkies looking for adventure in Dubai. If that resonates with your taste, we highly recommend visiting some of the best escape rooms in Dubai as well. Now let’s check out some the facilities at Wild Wadi Water Park:
Facilities at Wild Wadi Water Park
Here at Wild Wadi, you’ll find two pools with artificial waves enabling visitors to surf, giving you a memorable experience. There is also an 18-meter waterfall at the entrance of the park, giving the place an especial charm. But that’s not all as there are 30 different rides in Wild Wadi, having something in store for all age groups and body types.
Besides these, the park has three large pools, exclusively for relaxation, without artificial waves or slides, so that anyone can enjoy sunbathing around, swimming leisurely, and being at ease rather than seeking thrill after thrill.
If you are in pursuit of more serenity, then go for a 360-meter Juha River ride which will make you feel quite peaceful and enjoyable. If the ultimate amount of peace is on your mind, you can also book a private Wadi Cabana, sit back, and relax in the space provided with complete privacy while looking at the scenic views. That relaxation is extended to parents as well, as there is plenty of space for kids to play, featuring over 100 water games and activities.
Wild Wadi Available Services, Rules, Address & Working Hours
Other services include restaurants, cabanas, restrooms, and shops that ensure a problem-free and pleasurable visit. You can get souvenirs, enjoy excellent food we will introduce later, and generally find all that you might need during your stay. Whatever else one might need when entering the Wild Wadi Water Park can also be found in it. Moreover, the park does not trouble women with any special restrictions regarding their clothes.
- Operating Hours: open daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM;
- Location: Jumeirah, opposite Burj Al Arab
Atlantis Water Park: Introduction
One other similar to wild Wadi yet independent and incredibly popular in its category is the Atlantis Water Park. Stretching over 42 hectares, It is also famous under another name – Aquaventure. This one is located in the Atlantis Hotel, on Palm Jumeirah Island.
Home to more than 105 records breaking high-speed water slides and tranquil rivers, this one has also claimed its rightful place in the Guinness Book of World Records. A trip to this behemoth amongst water parks will prove to be a unique experience, catering to all ages and genders.
One of the most popular features of this park is its private beach, which is one kilometer in length. Aquaventure Waterpark houses some of the most beautiful views and rides in the world. Some have noted that food is very highly priced, though free water shoes are definitely one of the perks.
Facilities in the Atlantis Water Park
One of the features which Atlantis is famous for is its slides, due to which a lot of entertainment and joy is created for tourists. Other facilities of Atlantis Water Park include two thrilling experiences: surfing and jet skiing. These draw a large number of fans, along with many tourists.
The most iconic feature of this park is the Poseidon’s Tower, which offers all kinds of possibilities to experience high-speed slides. Moreover, the famous Leap of Faith slide, a 27-meter vertical drop into a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks will definitely be that incredible moment that this water park is remembered for.
You and your companions can:
- Go down the highest water chute in the world.
- Swim with the dolphins.
- Walk around the lost city of Atlantis.
- Join sea lion assemblies.
- Wear diving gear and plunge into the bottom of the ocean to interact with different sea animals.
And, of course, this park has not forgotten about children and welcomes them with two adventure towers, where they can entertain themselves for hours on end.
Atlantis Water Park Unique Attraction: The Aquarium
One of the unique features of Atlantis Water Park is an aquarium that houses 65,000 representatives of aquatic creatures. This aquarium is the largest in the Middle East and Africa. This extraordinary aquarium entertains visitors for several hours.
Plus, It is impossible to see all those fish swimming around without feeling like you need to feed them. Worry not-with the coordination of the staff, you can do so. If this is the sort of activity you live for, we highly recommend visiting the Dubai aquarium and underwater zoo, as it sure is a dream land for marine lovers.
Atlantis Water Park Additional Amenities, Timing & Address
The park has also taken into consideration a number of tourist facilities like restaurants, lifeguards, nurses, and children’s play area. You will be provided with all sorts of facilities so that you may enjoy your visit comfortably. Fortunately, the recreational facilities are not restricted to these and we will get to more details on them later on.
- Timing: It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Location: Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis Hotel
Comparing the Water Slides: Atlantis vs. Wild Wadi
Are the slides in Wild Wadi better than the ones in Atlantis? When it comes to a choice between the thrilling slides of Atlantis Water Park and Wild Wadi, both offer exceptional experiences tailored to different tastes. In Wild Wadi, you’ll have 30 rides to experience, including the legendary Jumeirah Sceirah slide, which will provide you with a pure adrenaline rush. Jumeirah Sceirah slide is 120 meters and provides a freefall feeling at 80 km/h. Families looking for a more relaxing option could try the Juha River, a great area where kids can play with water guns as much as they want. Don’t forget Breaker’s Bay Wave Pool and the park’s tranquil river to laze around.
But Atlantis takes water slides a notch higher. With over 105 attractions, this park deserves its glorious reputation. Highlights include Blackout and Leap of Faith, two heart-pounding slides for thrill-seekers, and Aquaconda, which is considered the biggest slide in this entire park.
If you’re seeking a high level of excitement and diversity in rides, Atlantis might be the better option. However, Wild Wadi, with its family-friendly environment and various attractions, remains a popular choice as well.
Affordability: Atlantis or Wild Wadi?
If you’re looking for an exciting experience but also want to keep your budget in check, here’s a comparison of the ticket prices for both parks:
- Wild Wadi Ticket Prices: The online ticket prices for this park range from 180 AED, up to 300 AED. The price enables the visitors to enter all 30 slides and attractions, including Jumeirah Sceirah, the main attraction of this water park.
- Atlantis Ticket Prices: The tickets here cost around 300 AED to 350 AED. This ticket provides you with access to all the water slides, pools, and the Lost Chambers Aquarium for an amazing underwater experience. If you are an overnight guest at any of the Jumeirah hotels, you will have free access to the waterpark for as long as you stay there.
While Wild Wadi comes across as the budget-friendly option, Atlantis surely worth the price. In the end, the choice comes down to what’s most important to you: your budget or access to more features.
Which Water Park Is More Accessible: Atlantis or Wild Wadi?
Waterpark accessibility can make a great difference in your experience. Now when it comes to Wild Wadi vs Atlantis in terms of accessibility, we must tell you that Wild Wadi Water Park is nestled in a very posh area. It is situated between Souk Madinat and the Jumeirah Hotel, providing the best views of the Burj Al Arab. If you are interested in The Majestic Towers of Dubai, coming here would mean killing two birds with one stone.
The Wild Wadi Water Park is located about 25 kilometers from Dubai International Airport and 16 kilometers from downtown Dubai. It is easily accessible with many bus routes passing to the nearest Mashrek bus station. It is completely stress-free to visit, especially for families and groups.
In comparison, Atlantis Water Park is situated in Palm Jumeirah Islands, and it is 36.2 km away from the airport. It’s a bit outside from the center of the city, but is also situated atop the Atlantis Hotel and a must-visit location on its own.
So, Wild Wadi remains a better choice in terms of ease of access, but the beauty of Palm Jumeirah has to be experienced fully along with the park.
Which Water Park Has Better Dining: Atlantis or Wild Wadi?
A couple of hours of jumping into rivers, pools, or sliding down the countless water slides is enough to get you exhausted and hungry. Now, when it comes to choosing a dining option between Atlantis and Wild Wadi Water Parks, both parks have much to offer:
Dining Options at Wild Wadi
Wild Wadi hosts several restaurants and cafes for every taste:
- Wild Wadi Surfer’s Burgers: famous for its fast food comprising hot dogs and burgers.
- Firecrust Pizza: Renowned for its traditional brick oven pizzas using fresh ingredients.
- Dhow & Lagoon Kitchen: This kitchen serves Middle Eastern dishes from shawarma to fried chicken.
- Wave View Cafe: great if you want to have a quick snack, nachos or popcorn
Dining Options at Atlantis Aquaventure
Moreover, Atlantis has a number of tempting dining experiences with various restaurants combined with striking views. They include:
- Atlantis Shark Bites: Family-friendly, this restaurant serves international flavors both indoors and outdoors.
- Barracudas: serving many different types of cuisines, from Indian and Middle Eastern to the classic favorite. You can enjoy dining indoors or take your meal outdoors.
- Snappers: A laid-back spot with a selection of pizzas, burgers, and fried chicken that are crowd favorites among Atlantis visitors.
In the end, it all boils down to your preference because Wild Wadi is known for affordability and variety, serving burgers, shawarma, and ice cream, while Atlantis offers a luxurious dining environment along with a great view.
Which Water Park Has Stricter Rules: Atlantis or Wild Wadi?
When you try to compare the rules and policies in Atlantis and Wild Wadi Water Parks, you’ll notice that there actually are no huge differences between them. The rules are similar in both parks and include what one usually expects of a water park, with minor differences in detail perhaps.
The rules at Atlantis are pretty strong when it comes to safety. Appropriate swimwear is required, with a ban on regular clothes with zippers and buckles that can potentially hurt someone. Contact lenses and smoking within the park premises are also prohibited. Following instructions by the lifeguards is also strictly necessary.
Similarly, Wild Wadi does the same, but it may not be as strict as Atlantis in some aspects. In any case, safety precautions and a ban on taking one’s own food and drinks inside are vital.
Even though both parks follow the same rules for the safety of their visitors, Atlantis still has slightly more rigid regulations. By respecting these easy to follow rules, one will have a pleasant and safe time in either park.
General Tips and Best Time to Visit Atlantis or Wild Wadi Waterparks
To avoid crowds, we suggest visiting these parks on weekdays or during cooler months from November through March. Mornings are better for shorter lines, while midday offers fewer crowds for those who can tolerate the heat. Atlantis is naturally busier during holiday seasons, so booking your tickets in advance can save plenty of time.
Arrive early to find a good seat and experience popular slides without waiting in long queues. Wear quick-dry swimwear, and bring water shoes for comfort. You may also carry sunscreen, a waterproof phone pouch, and extra clothes for post-park activities. If you are coming here with your little ones, you need to bring swim diapers for those who still wear them. Regular ones aren’t permitted. Don’t worry as there are lockers for your belongings. You can also take photos with your camera in these Waterparks, or buy a waterproof case when you are there.
Similarities Between Atlantis Waterpark and Wild Wadi
We have discussed in detail all the differences between these water parks but we must also consider their similarities. Both Atlantis Aquaventure and Wild Wadi are thrilling parks that share certain characteristics that make them stand out:
- Full of Thrilling Rides: Both parks boast some of the most exciting rides any thrill enthusiast would wish for. From sharp bends and twists to lazy pools, both parks are equally entertaining.
- Designed for All Ages: The various attractions in both parks are designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages. From children to adults, everyone will have a great time.
- Prime Locations: Both are located along coastlines, hence offering proximity to beautiful beaches where you can relax after a whole energetic day at the waterpark.
- Professional Staff and Services: Both parks pride themselves on very good service and experienced staff are ready to handle visitors and ensure safety as well as fun moments for the visitors.
- Themes: While Atlantis bases its theme on the lost city of Atlantis, Wild Wadi draws its inspiration from Arabian folklore. Each provides a visually and emotionally enriching experience.
Wild Wadi vs. Atlantis Aquaventure: What DO Customers Think
Both these waterparks offer unique experiences, but here’s what customers say about each to help you decide:
Wild Wadi Waterpark
Here are a few customers feedback about Wild Wadi Waterpark:
- “It was a great day out, but things are starting to look dated. We waited for a long time to get on a ride to realise we only waited so long due to a lack of boats.”
- “Loved the Jumeirah Sceirah slide! A real adrenaline rush. Just wish the food options were better.”
- “The park is beautifully clean and well maintained and all of the staff are exceptionally friendly. Also, lifeguards are everywhere and very helpful.
- The water slides are really cool, the river is also amazing and peaceful to explore. You can try them all for free and as many times as you’d like.”
- “In love with the place. Beautiful Burj Al Arab view. You will also get scenic views when you go to the higher side. All level rides are there. The journey from the lazy river to the Jumeirah Scare was just speechless and can’t be described in words.”
- “Wild wadi waterpark is Amazing, my son who has autism enjoyed it very much. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. We enjoyed all the rides,very clean and super family friendly.”
Atlantis Aquaventure
Here are a few customers reviews about Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark:
- “Massive park with so much to do! The Leap of Faith was unforgettable.”
- “It’s pricey, but the beach access and variety of attractions make it worth it.”
- “The park offers a fantastic variety of rides suitable for all ages, ensuring there’s something fun for everyone. The atmosphere was electric, with great music vibes that really added to the excitement.”
- “This waterpark needs no introduction. It brings joy and unforgettable experiences to both tourists and Dubai residents! If you’re looking for the perfect place to spend a day with family or friends, here you’ll find happiness, fun, and lasting memories.”
- “Didn’t have much time to try all the slides but had chance to try some of the best slides. “Blackout’ was really a blackout, didn’t knew where I would go out. Couldn’t try Leap of faith but it was on a different level. Can’t imagine how it would go. Waiting times for some slides were around 45min. But some just 25-30 min.”
- “The slides are next level thrilling, some of them had me screaming all the way down, and the lazy river is so much fun with its surprising twists and turns. The whole place has such a cool vibe, and there’s something for everyone”
Hotels Near Atlantis Aquaventure and Wild Wadi
To make your Dubai trip unforgettable, staying at hotels close to these waterparks can enhance your experience. Here are five nearby hotels for each park:
Near Atlantis Aquaventure:
Situated in Palm Jumeirah Islands, here are the hotels nearby Atlantis Waterpark:
- Atlantis The Palm – 0.5 km
- Sofitel Dubai The Palm – 1.5 km
- Atlantis The Royal – 1.2 km
- Raffles The Palm Dubai – 2.8 km
- Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah – 2.6 km
Near Wild Wadi:
This waterpark is situated in the Jumeirah area, right between the iconic Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Here are the hotels closest to it:
- Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf – 1 km
- Jumeirah Beach Hotel – 0.4 km
- Jumeirah Al Naseem – 0.4 km
- Jumeirah Burj Al Arab – 0.5 km
- Jumeirah Mina A’Salam – 0.7 km
Both locations are quite accessible if you know how to use the Public Transportation in Dubai.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Atlantis Aquaventure or Wild Wadi depends on what you really expect from a waterpark. Ultimately, both parks have excellent ratings and reviews on the experiences that their guests have.
If you’re looking for heart-stopping adventures and brand new, wonderful facilities, then Atlantis is a very good option with its amazing slides and astounding aquarium. If you would love to be in a family park where the atmosphere is rather easy and relaxed, having joyful moments with your loved ones, then Wild Wadi works great for you.
This guide aimed to fairly compare the two parks by exploring their facilities, rides, attractions, ticket prices, and food costs. We also included reviews from previous visitors to give you a clearer perspective before planning your trip.
Both parks invite you to experience a day filled with excitement. Both of these parks have a significant contribution to the surge in Dubai property prices around them, and if such amenities close to your residence sounds appealing to you, we are eager to help. With countless luxury properties and off-plan investments throughout Dubai, we at Dxboffplan are ready to turn your dreams and ideas into reality.
frequently asked questions
Both parks are very family-friendly, but Wild Wadi has a more relaxed atmosphere, with rides that would appeal to younger children, while Atlantis Aquaventure has a better variety of thrilling slides for older groups.
Wild Wadi tends to be less packed, especially during the week, while Atlantis Aquaventure tends to be busier because of its larger popularity. In Aqua Venture, there is an AquaXpress Fast Track for visitors to skip long lines.
Yes, both are close to luxury hotels. A few options for Atlantis Aquaventure include Atlantis The Palm and Sofitel Dubai The Palm, while for Wild Wadi, you have Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.
The answer is yes for both; Atlantis Aquaventure has a private beach to its name, while Wild Wadi is next to Jumeirah Beach and has a nice coastal view.