'Atlantis Dubai': Crafting Excellence and Continuing Luxury Hospitality... No Ceiling to Success!
Dubai – Mohammed Abdullah:
Under the banner of “Exceptional Enhancements at Atlantis, The Palm,” an extraordinary session delved into the depths of an exceptional experience that has cemented the concept of luxury hospitality. Moderated by veteran media personality and distinguished host Tom Orkhardt, and featuring Philippe Zuber, Chief Executive Officer of Kierzen International, the owner of the Atlantis resorts, leaders of the resort—one of the world’s most renowned exceptional destinations—unveiled a promising vision for development and the creation of exceptional excellence. The session, which attracted a number of global leaders and innovators in the tourism and luxury hospitality industries, was driven by a central question and challenge: what can be added to sustain excellence, prove that success has no ceiling, and continue with the same passion to deliver an exceptional experience that compels guests of “Atlantis” to return without hesitation? And how can the resort maintain its ability to astonish?
The presence of Michael Johnson, an inspiring figure in the Atlantis experience and a legend of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics—officially known as the Games of the XXVI Olympiad, also referred to as the Centennial Olympics to mark the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic Games (1896–1996)—added an exceptional atmosphere. Held from July 19 to August 4, 1996, the Games featured approximately 10,318 athletes representing 197 countries. Johnson won four Olympic gold medals in track and field events. His remarks served as the closing note, blending his personal and athletic journey with Atlantis’s exceptional experience. He spoke about creativity in critical moments, resilience in the face of challenges, the journey that leads one to the pinnacle, and how to maintain one’s level once reaching it becomes part of history.
Kim Bartle, General Manager and Executive Director of Atlantis, The Palm, opened the session and went straight to the heart of the matter, discussing the vision behind upcoming development projects and how the resort’s management views the guest experience from the moment of arrival. He emphasized that development cannot be limited to merely changing the physical appearance of the place; rather, the idea lies in studying guest needs, expectations, and their desire to find something new in every visit, or an experience that allows them to see the place through a different lens. He underscored the commitment of the integrated Atlantis Dubai ecosystem—which includes Atlantis, The Palm, Atlantis The Royal, and Aquaventure Waterpark—to continue developing experiences and services, and to strengthen the resort’s position as a prominent destination in the world of luxury hospitality. This commitment includes ongoing investment in ideas and projects that enhance the visitor experience, and upholding the resort’s philosophy that goes beyond mere hotel accommodation to encompass a vast world of dining, entertainment, aquatic experiences, and events.
Hanan Aissa, Executive Vice President of Commercial and Marketing for Atlantis Dubai Resorts, walked the audience through her experience leading marketing campaigns for the Atlantis resorts. She highlighted the historic launch of “Atlantis The Royal” as one of her most significant milestones, discussing innovation and boldness in creative decision-making, and how to transform a hotel brand from a mere commercial name into an experience that people know and talk about. She also addressed how a regional brand can establish its presence on the global tourism map. Meanwhile, Kip Charalambous, Vice President of Sales, emphasized the continued effort to build local and international partnerships and strengthen Atlantis’s presence in key markets that form part of global tourism flows. He spoke about Dubai’s position as a global destination for luxury tourism and entertainment, and outlined the vision and commercial plans for Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. He also underscored the importance of international markets and partnerships in expanding the resort’s reach and attracting more visitors.
