Whether you’re in need of a mind-soothing massage, transformative facial or a pampering day with friends, Dubai’s cutting-edge spas have got you covered. Of course, the global pandemic meant the weighty glass doors were shuttered for some time. But most finally, happily reopened for business – with strict new safety guidelines in place, of course. Some are operating as close to ‘normal’ as possible, with full facilities and treatment menus, while others offer a revised menu. From trying out the iconic Talise spa at the 7-star Burj Al Arab to wrapping my face in 24 karat gold and putting to test the 24 karat gold facial (gave me the Cleopatra feels) at Caesars Palace Dubai, being the spa connoisseur that I’m, I’ve had a chance to try it all. So safe to say that after a thorough evaluation of the treatments, ambiance, therapist intuitiveness, the luxe factor, products used, and more, we have whittled down these havens that are Dubai’s hotspots for pampering, both holistic and aesthetic. Before you book, see LL’s pick of the ultimate Dubai spas.
Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab
Imagine a pamper-day at the 7-star hotel. Matching the fabulousness of the property’s grandiose accommodations and service is the Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab. Perched 150m above the Arabian Gulf, Talise Spa can be sure touted as the ultimate destination to luxuriate, relax and rejuvenate. Bathed in natural light, this groundbreaking spa is set over two floors, with separate men’s and women’s amenities to ensure total privacy and discretion. Each experience has been carefully crafted and exclusively developed using the world’s most luxurious products, including La Prairie, Aromatherapy Associates, QMS, and Carol Joy, to leave you feeling utterly pampered.
The award-winning sanctuary features separate indoor infinity pools, Jacuzzi, and treatment rooms, as well as saunas, steam rooms, and plunge pools. The spa also includes a squash court and a fitness center that offers aerobic facilities and advanced cardiovascular and resistance training equipment.
Treatment: ‘Royal Rose’ couple treatment – AED 1,750 per person
This delicate and soothing experience begins with an Organic full-body scrub infused with natural, ambrosial scents of budding flowers to leave guests with a glowing, healthy complexion. This is followed by the Majestic Floral Massage using organic shea and jojoba floral butter to moisturize the skin. An organic rose, beech bud, aloe vera, and argan facial follows, resulting in brighter, rejuvenated skin. Guests can further make use of complimentary access to the spa’s facilities and will emerge radiant from this luxurious treatment feeling rejuvenated and even more youthful. The experience also includes a spa tea with assorted canapes, pastries, scones, and petit fours. The 120 minutes of sheer bliss guarantee an awakening, and boy, you are ready to take on the world!
Website: www.jumeirah.com
Phone: (04) 301 7365
Qua Spa at Caesars Palace Dubai
An award-winning wellness concept from Las Vegas where Japanese technologies and luxurious spa treatments soothe the mind and body, this one is sure a showstopper. The first of its kind in the UAE, the Iyashi Dome at Qua Spa uses state-of-the-art infrared rays to deeply cleanse the body, restore its balance and gain efficient and long-lasting slimming effects. Inspired by traditional Japanese practice, ‘Suna Ryoho’ – where the locals bury themselves in the sand near hot springs on the beach to eliminate toxins, this spa treatment also burns up to 600 calories a session, making it a must for wellness connoisseurs looking for a serious detox.
I love how many wet facilities such as rock saunas, aroma steam rooms, experience showers, and ice fountains help you unwind before a treatment.
As a spa connoisseur, it’s worth pointing out that what stands out about this spa is that there is no attempt at forcing the idea of tranquility here; instead, it’s all very contemporary with earthy gray tones, light wooden beams, a bright reception area with a boutique and well-lit corridors.
Treatment: Arabian Gold [120mins] – AED 1,690
I tried the Signature Senses collection massage combined with a Golden facial by Carol Joy on the innovative ultra-relaxing and easing Quartz bed.
Based on hot sand therapy originally used in Ancient Egypt to treat medical ailments, the groundbreaking Psammo Concept Quartz Bed is derived from the age-old concept of thermal therapy for mental and physical relaxation. Integrating the multiple benefits of sand therapy, aromatherapy, inversion therapy, and wave-like massage, the quartz sand bed treatment offers the chance to experience something extraordinary.
A relaxation session on the warm quartz bed is combined with herbal compresses of frankincense, a cedar wood massage, and the application of a spicy muscle balm to banish stress.
The massage is followed by an exceptional facial using the Carol Joy London products with 24-carat gold to encourage cell regeneration. I drifted into a slumber filled with visions of tropical wellness and then emerged two hours later with my skin feeling creamier, tighter, and more even, and my body and mind rejuvenated to the core.
Website: www.caesars.com
Phone: (04) 301 7365
Saray Spa at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
Tucked away behind ornately carved doors, the world-class Saray Spa is a health and wellness haven at the heart of the world’s tallest 5-star hotel. True to its name and drawing inspiration from the historic Caravanserais located along the silk trade routes of old, Saray Spa offers a personal experience of restoration and renewal through rituals that have withstood the test of time.
Ancient healing techniques and locally sourced natural ingredients are combined to pay homage to the Arabian heritage of Saray Spa. All products used in these treatments come from an exclusive line only found at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai and are available in the luxurious Saray Spa Boutique.
The Saray Golden Hammam – AED 1270
This one is a luxury Hammam treatment worthy of a queen. I like the powerful combination of the traditional Hammam and precious Gold, which has been used since ancient times for its mystical powers of rejuvenation and healing. Relax and let the herbal scented black soap purify your body and clear your senses. After a vigorous exfoliation with your personal Hammam kese mitt you will continue your Arabian journey with a body wrap of Gold Clay and Myrtle and a facial mask of Golden Arabian Honey. To finish, precious oil infused with 24 karat Gold is massaged into the skin. This valuable body oil will help to purify the spirit, stimulate cell regeneration and leave you with a radiant glow and the scent of Arabian Jasmine. It is performed in one of the private Hammam treatment rooms.
“From the moment guests arrive at Saray Spa, we treat them with the utmost care and ensure that their comfort and well-being is ensured at all times. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai being the flagship property of Marriott International in the Middle East and the flagship property of JW Marriott worldwide, we strive to live up to the excellent reputation both hotel and spa enjoy daily. Our therapists have been hand-selected and are well trained, and come with their various areas of expertise. Guests live our multi-award-winning spa not only relaxed but renewed for the journey ahead,” says Amar Tiwari, Director of Guest Experience and Wellness.
Phone: +971 4 414 6754| [email protected]
Website: https://portal.marriott.com
Dreamworks spa at multiple luxury hotels
Dreamworks Spa is the largest, multi-award-winning, independent spa chain in the United Arab Emirates, operating since 2007. With over 20 outlets situated in the heart of the city, the Asian-inspired wellness center provides traditional, specially curated, and bespoke treatments that suit one’s everyday lifestyle. Each Dreamworks Spa is specifically designed to bring healing and relaxation through the blissfully rich and authentic Asian experience.
The Treatment:The Traditional Balinese Massage – AED 398 and the scrub for AED 200
The 60-min full-body Traditional Balinese Massage is a brilliant combination of reflexology, aromatherapy, and acupressure techniques.
A 30-min body scrub using an all-natural, cruelty-free, and vegan-friendly scrub follows. As my therapist rubbed, kneaded, and stretched my muscles, I felt a pleasurable tinge traverse. With my body cocooned and the mind relaxed in preparation for a luxurious head massage, I was completely nourished and relaxed.
Website: www.dreamworks.ae
The spa at Address sky view
The Spa at Address Sky View presents a unique array of treatments and therapies that combine natural and organic elements with cutting-edge methods and world-class journeys of revival that nourish, enrich, and revitalize from deep within the expertise. Space allows you to relax in an aura of utter refinement across state-of-the-art treatment rooms in dedicated sections for men and women. Each of them also features a luxurious sauna, steam room, relaxation lounge, and plunge pool. A breathtaking couple’s suite offers the opportunity for shared experiences of rejuvenation followed by a private meal on the stunning Sky Deck. Dubai’s first spa in the sky is a must-try!
Address Signature Ritual – 795/995 AED | 90/120 Mins
This one combines the healing effects of indulgent full body exfoliation, followed by a blissful massage that includes both the physical and emotional benefits of Address Signature Cedar & Vetivert scent. It will leave you slipping into a state of complete relaxation, leaving you refreshed and renewed.
After an hour-long massage replete with exotic essences, an intuitive therapist with hands-on techniques, and soothing spa music, I emerged completely reborn and spoilt-to-the-core.
Phone: (04) 873 8888
Website: www.addresshotels.com
Armani/Spa at Armani Hotel Dubai
The exclusive ambience of Armani SPA reflects the lifestyle and design by Giorgio Armani.
An oasis of peace and tranquility in the heart of a bustling city, the 12,000-square-foot Armani/SPA offers unique spaces and outstanding service for a day out, including personal fitness, sequential thermal bathing, or simply, private and social relaxation areas.
It allows you to take a break in the enchanting relaxation pool, with a panoramic view of the city, or get involved in the spa trail with saunas, steam baths, and ice waterfalls. Finally, you can choose from a wide range of hot teas, cold infusions, and fresh fruits, the best solution to pamper you along the path and boost your energy to face your day better
Triple the Spa Indulgence
This treatment gives your body some much-needed care and attention with 90 minutes of tailored treatment and allows you to receive 2 treatments of 25 minutes each for free on your next visit. You can choose any day and reserve your preferred time slot and treatment type. Let the experienced team of professional therapists work magic. The package includes access to Armani Terme facilities and a relaxation area.
Date: throughout April & May 2021
Phone: +971 4 888 3282 or email [email protected]
Jiva Spa at Taj Dubai
The Jiva Spa at Taj Dubai offers a unique range of spa treatments and rituals that blend some classic Indian healing techniques with the finest natural ingredients and the iconic Taj service. All products used at Jiva Spa are natural and uniquely developed from Indian herbs, essential oils, and special ingredients.
Located just above the gym and the pool deck, the Spa features four intimate treatment rooms, including a luxury couple’s treatment suite, sauna, and steam rooms, dedicated male and female lockers, and direct access to an outdoor swimming pool with a spacious deck, pool bar and a separate shallow pool for little guests.
Taghthia Amiqa – AED 920
An indulgent treatment for deep nourishment and glowing skin. Set the mood for this pure indulgence as you commence with an aromatic footbath. Here you are pampered with the richness of nature – a natural blend of date, almond, saffron, cactus gel, and almond oil help moisturize and tighten your skin. A heavenly scalp massage calms your mind, taking you to a blissful state of relaxation. Soak your cares away with a warm bath of nourishing camel milk to wash away the traces of the wrap. Succumb to the rhythmic strokes of a relaxation massage with our bespoke blend. To complete the experience, this treatment allows you to spray a choice of mist on your body.
I love how Jiva Spa gets its ambiance just right. The lighting is not painfully dim; some rooms are titled as per the nature of the treatment offered in them (see picture), with little artworks that are a sight for sore eyes. With the perfect aromas and techniques, it gives you the blissful feeling of floating on a cloud. If you’re remotely interested in Ayurveda, this is the perfect retreat.
Phone: (04) 438 3100
Website: www.tajhotels.com
Fit and Spa Lounge at Pullman JLT
Located on the 34th floor of the five-star Pullman Jumeirah Lakes Towers hotel, Fit & Spa Lounge offers a selection of facilities to unwind and stay in shape. An outdoor heated pool, sauna, hammam, hot tub, and indoor gym are all available. You can marvel at the views of Dubai’s skyline as you enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment. Moreover, the rooftop pool makes for a perfect fitness destination. The spa boasts 3 signature treatments, 3 body treatments, over 10 traditional treatments, and 9 facial treatments done by well-trained, super polished, and polite staff.
Treatment- The Thai massage – AED 320 for 60 minutes
The therapy uses gentle pressure and stretching techniques to relax the whole body. There’s a lot of stretching that stimulates blood circulation. My therapist from Thailand slowly worked her magic on my aching body through various stretches. She uses her hands, knees, legs, or feet to help manipulate my body into different positions. I loved how it improved the flow of energy throughout my body. I drifted in a trance of sorts with her skilled techniques and left the spa with a spring in my gait. If you are looking for a traditional Thai massage experience, look no further.
Phone: (04) 567 1181
Website: www.picktime.com
