Is there anything more overrated in luxury tourism than paying a steep entrance fee to swim in a pool that, technically, also exists at any three-star resort? In the case of the Cloud 22 infinity pool, the answer is a resounding no: here, the water is just the excuse.
Atlantis The Royal opened its doors in January 2023 as the most expensive and media-covered hotel on Palm Jumeirah, but it was Cloud 22’s appearance on Instagram and TikTok that turned this rooftop into the most sought-after destination in Dubai among travelers who can’t — or don’t want to — pay room rates. The good news is that you don’t need to stay overnight to get access.
Cloud 22, the Infinity Pool That Turned the 22nd Floor Into Dubai’s Best Viewpoint
Cloud 22 is not the highest infinity pool in the world, but it is the most viral on Palm Jumeirah. Located on the 22nd floor of Atlantis The Royal, approximately 80 meters above sea level, it offers panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, the Persian Gulf, and the complete silhouette of the world’s most famous artificial island.
The pool stretches 90 meters in length — a figure many confuse with its height — making it one of the largest rooftop-format pools in the world. With capacity for only a limited number of swimmers at a time and access restricted by time slots, the exclusivity isn’t just marketing: it’s a real operational policy that makes every photo look like it was taken at a private resort.
How Much Does the Day Pass Cost and What Does It Include?
Day pass prices for this infinity pool vary depending on the day and time slot. Visiting Palm Jumeirah for this experience on weekdays starts from 335 AED (around 86 euros) for a morning session; on weekends, the same access rises to 400 AED or more. The full weekend day pass exceeds 670 AED (approximately 175 euros).
The ticket covers access to the infinity pool, an individual sun lounger, and use of the facilities during the reserved time slot. It does not include drinks, food, or towel service. Premium options — floating beds, private cabanas, or double beds — are booked separately and can easily double the cost.
The Social Media Effect: Why This Infinity Pool Is a Top Trend in 2026
Before any influencer set foot in the venue, Cloud 22 was already designed to be photographed. The infinity pool’s edges blend visually with the horizon, the water reflects the golden tones of sunset over the Gulf, and Dubai’s skyline appears in the background like a movie set. It’s no coincidence: it’s architecture conceived for visual content.
In 2025 and into 2026, searches for “Cloud 22” on Google have grown steadily in Spain, Italy, and France. European travelers heading to Dubai no longer ask whether they’ll visit the infinity pool — they ask when to book to get the best light for photos. Sunset — the sunset session, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekends — is the most requested slot and the first to sell out.
Experience Comparison: Cloud 22’s Infinity Pool vs. Other Options in Dubai
Before booking, it’s worth knowing what other infinity pools exist in Dubai to put Cloud 22’s price and value in context. The rooftop pool market in the city is competitive, and each option has its own traveler profile.
Not all visitors need the same experience: Aura Skypool, for example, offers a genuine 360° format from the 50th floor of Palm Tower, but with an even more restricted capacity and higher prices. Cloud 22 wins on pool size, club atmosphere, and visibility of Dubai’s continental skyline.
| Rooftop Pool | Approx. Height | Entry Price (from) | Main Views | External Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud 22 – Atlantis The Royal | Floor 22 (~80 m) | €86 (weekday) | Dubai Skyline + Gulf | Yes, day pass |
| Aura Skypool – Palm Tower | Floor 50 (~240 m) | ~€100 | 360° views of Palm Jumeirah | Yes, with reservation |
| SLS Dubai Rooftop Pool | Floor 75 (~300 m) | ~€70 | Downtown and Burj Khalifa | Yes, day pass |
| Address Beach Resort Pool | Floor 77 (~293 m) | ~€110 | Sea + JBR + skyline | Yes, day pass |
| Five Palm Jumeirah Pool | Low level | ~€60 | Palm Jumeirah and beach | Yes, day pass |
When Is It Worth Going and What’s Next for Cloud 22?
Cloud 22 will not get cheaper in the short term. The trend in Dubai points in exactly the opposite direction: accessible luxury experiences — those offering five-star hotel glamour without requiring an overnight stay — have been consistently raising prices since 2024. Anyone wanting to enjoy this infinity pool at the best price has a window of opportunity before rates permanently consolidate above 200 euros on weekends.
The advice from those who know the Emirates luxury tourism market well is clear: book at least 72 hours in advance, choose a weekday afternoon session to combine a reasonable price with sunset light, and remember that the real spectacle of this infinity pool begins when the sun touches the Palm Jumeirah horizon line. That moment — free, unrepeatable, and widely shared on social media — is what truly justifies the ticket.
