Wellness tourism is taking over 2024, as a global shift towards health, wellbeing and experiential travel gains traction. This comes as the recent Lululemon Global Wellbeing Report reveals over half of Australians (55%) are experiencing significant levels of stress and burnout. If there ever was a time Aussies needed to disconnect and prioritise their wellbeing in their own unique ways – it’s now.
In 2024, Dubai has redefined the concept of wellness, elevating it from mere spa treatments and healthy dining to comprehensive, immersive experiences.
From luxurious desert retreats to cutting-edge medical spas, traditional hammams to innovative wellness centres, these are Dubai’s premier wellness experiences to address the diverse needs of travellers.
Fitness and Recovery: SIRO One Za’abeel
Described as the world’s ‘first biohacking hotel’, SIRO One Za’abeel integrates the five biohacking pillars of fitness, recovery, sleep, nutrition and mindfulness to create an immersive destination that elevates the concept of wellbeing. SIRO’s offering includes sleep-optimised rooms and innovative facilities like the Fitness Lab which includes every imaginable piece of state-of-the-art equipment. In-house staff can also provide nutritional support and custom meal plans, while guests can recharge at the Refuel Bar.
Where Tradition meets Innovation: Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Winner of the World’s Best Hamman Spa 2023 at the World Spa Awards, the 8,200-square-metre Talise Ottoman Spa is a wellness wonderland where ancient hammam rituals coexist with modern therapies. Guests can journey from traditional steam rooms and marble-clad Turkish baths to futuristic snow caves and thalassotherapy pools. While deeply rooted in heritage, the resort doesn’t shy away from luxury innovations, offering services like poolside sunglasses cleaning and a mini water park for junior guests.
All Encompassing: The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery
The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel on Palm Jumeirah offers a dedicated wellness package for those seeking a fully immersive wellness experience. The retreat includes accommodation in a deluxe room with Palm Jumeirah sea view; pre-arrival consultation with a wellness coach; healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet at Vibe all-day dining restaurant; a one-hour Rayya personalised spa treatment; daily group sessions; in-room night self-care sleep rituals; and access to gym, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi.
Unique Wellness Experiences: Underwater Yoga at Atlantis, The Palm
For those who dream of finding their zen beneath the waves, Underwater Yoga at Atlantis The Palm offers a truly unique experience that brings the ocean to your yoga mat, without ever getting wet. Nestled within the resort’s Lost Chambers Aquarium, an otherworldly yoga studio is transformed underwater. Surrounded by a mesmerising 65,000 sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish, this 60-minute, all-levels class accommodates up to 20 yogis, creating an intimate atmosphere despite the grandiose setting. While you won’t actually be submerged, the darkened room illuminated by the shimmering waters creates an illusion of underwater serenity. Post-session, extend your aquatic adventure with the resort’s extensive water park featuring thrilling slides and river rides.
Outdoor Wellness: Hatta
High up Dubai’s Hajar mountains, Hatta is a great place to hit if you want to swap skyline views for nature. This charming mountain town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway in the glamping Domes. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including hiking, outdoor yoga, mountain biking, and kayaking in the Hatta Dam. Visitors can also explore the Hatta Heritage Village, a restored 16th-century fort that showcases traditional Emirati architecture and culture. With its stunning natural scenery and cultural offerings, Hatta offers a refreshing experience for travellers looking for a change of scenery on their Dubai trip.
Wellness with a View: AURA Skypool
AURA Skypool, suspended 200 meters in the air, is the highest 360-degree infinity pool in the world and offers stunning panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline, the beautiful Palm Jumeirah, and the Arabian Gulf. It appeals to all senses and is perfect for destressing and capturing the essence of Dubai at new heights. Travellers will find a range of wellness offerings, such as the sunrise pool experience and ‘wellness in the sky’ sessions, which include Yin Yoga Sound Healing, Hot Vinyasa, Hot Yoga & Ice Bath, Power Fit, and Dynamic Stretch.
