Editor’s Picks: The best spa and wellness centres in the UAE
From barbershops and beauty salons to massages and facials, these are the best places to relax and recharge across the seven emirates.
The sixth FACT Spa & Wellness Awards UAE took place in May 2024. 56 awards were given out across 29 categories, covering over 150 hotel and independent spas, salons, health clubs, and wellness centres.
The FACT Spa & Wellness Awards recognise brilliance in the health and wellbeing industry. Winners are awarded based on public votes and critics’ opinions. Each category was given two awards: the BEST and the FAVOURITE. The former is the critic’s choice determined by the FACT editorial team. You can find out more about how the winners are chosen by clicking here.
Without further ado, here are your 2024 winners:
BEAUTY SALON IN DUBAI
Sisters Beauty Lounge – Various Locations
Sisters Beauty Lounge, you are so cool. When a hair menu includes services such as an artistic undercut to a funky crazy colour, you know that it’s definitely on trend. Plus, the full list of services cover hair, nails, facials, lashes, body and waxing.
HAIR SALON IN DUBAI
Lunatic Fringe – Dubai Marina
If Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan were to open a salon, it would look like Lunatic Fringe. The Scottish-born brand made its debut in Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort and Spa last year. The entrance is gram-worthy with floral arrangements, and the gold finishes add Art Deco touches. The treatments include hair removal, nails, make-up, botox, and facials. The hair treatments take place in the heart of the salon, and we were impressed by the staff’s attention to detail.
MALE GROOMING IN DUBAI
Akin Barber & Shop – Various Locations
The independent – and trendsetting – men’s grooming destination is all about embracing the notion that every aspect of your life should be memorable and uplifting. As a result, the entire Akin Barber & Shop brand is tightly woven with how customers view their way of life and that grooming is an expression of a person’s identity. You’ll find yourself enjoying a speciality coffee from Dubai’s leading roasteries with every cut or shave as your grooming needs are tended to by Akin’s highly skilled hair and beard stylists.
FITNESS CENTRE IN DUBAI
Barry’s – Various Locations
Barry’s has been flexing its muscles across the world from Spain to Singapore, as it has gyms in more than 14 countries. In the UAE, there are locations in Dubai’s DIFC, Dubai Marina and Abu Dhabi’s Galleria Mall. Founded in Los Angeles and loved by A-listers, we love its high-intensity classes and state-of-the-art facilities. Sign up for original HIIT workouts and feel the burn.
SWIMMING POOL IN DUBAI
Cloud 22 – Atlantis The Royal
Luxuriate in a lavish cabana complete with a private plunge pool, or take a dip in the 90-meter infinity sky pool with views of Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf. Sip on a delicately crafted cocktail or enjoy a menu of poolside bites and gold-dusted burgers at a venue that is currently only accessible to in-house guests at the newly-opened Atlantis The Royal.
POOL AND BEACH DAY ACCESS IN DUBAI
WET Deck – W Dubai – The Palm
W Dubai – The Palm’s WET Deck is one of the most buzzing beach clubs in Dubai. The volume and vibes are turned up to the max at the adult’s only venue. The DJs get the party started, and the pool bar gets the drinks flowing. Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy pool bites while overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Marina. Plus, it is close to the beach, so you can tip your toes into the water.
BEACH CLUB IN ABU DHABI
Saadiyat Beach Club – Saadiyat Island
The family-friendly Saadiyat Beach Club is located on a 9km stretch of Blue Flag-certified beach. If it’s good enough for the Hawksbill turtles, then it’s good enough for us. As this is a protected habitat, the little creatures may make an appearance, which helps this win cute points. Plus, the Mediterranean dishes at Safina add to the tropical vibe.
BEACH CLUB IN DUBAI
Nikki Beach Dubai – Pearl Jumeira
If you want to make like FACT’s Editor-in-Chief, then head to Nikki Beach Dubai. The chic beach club is located in a serene spot with views of the Arabian Gulf, Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. The venue prides itself on combining music, dining, entertainment, fashion and film into one destination. Dig into salads, sushi, seafood and shisha, then dip into the pool – you have several to choose from.
WELLNESS CENTRE IN DUBAI
Matcha Club – Al Quoz
Matcha Club is one of the coolest clubs in Dubai. Even if you’ve never thought about starting padel, it will make you want to pick up a racket. Everything from the concept to the crowd, feels like it was made for Instagram. The venue boasts state-of-the-art equipment, from rackets to balls. Bringing together a health-conscious community, it hosts pilates and yoga classes and includes a healthy café. Plus, the facilities are clean and contemporary, with showers and L’Occitane products.
INDEPENDENT SPA IN ABU DHABI
The Club Spa – Abu Dhabi Country Club
Abu Dhabi Country Club is home to one of the UAE’s largest spas, The Club Spa. The treatments include facials, massages and high-tech skin solutions. The Signature Hydra Facial cleanses, exfoliates and extracts impurities from the skin. Couples and mothers-to-be have a special meu, too. Plus, it is home to sauna and steam rooms.
INDEPENDENT SPA IN DUBAI
SENSASIA – Various Locations
We are big fans of homegrown brands at FACT and love SENSASIA’s independent spirit. The one-stop shop for all of your health and beauty needs includes a hammam, spa, nail station and relaxation room. Apparently, guests have even flown in from all over the world to experience the treatments. Locations include Emirates Golf Club, Kempinski Hotel Mall Of The Emirates Dubai and The Village in Jumeriah 1.
SPA BRAND IN DUBAI
The SPA – Palazzo Versace Dubai
If it’s good enough for Jennifer Lopez, it’s good enough for us. Palazzo Versace Dubai is a celeb favourite and has treatments that will make you feel red-carpet-ready. We love the luxurious hammam, as you are soaped and scrubbed and leave feeling well and truly pampered. Tip: book the Diamond and Gold Royal Hammam, as it will make you feel like an A-lister.
SPA DESIGN IN DUBAI
The Bulgari Spa – Bulgari Resort Dubai
If we could model our bathroom – scrap that – our whole home on any spa in Dubai, it would have to be The Bulgari Spa. Spanning 1,700 square meters, it oozes Italian glamour – it is Bulgari, after all. The vitality pool is inspired by the ancient Caracalla Roman baths, and the whole spa boasts an elegance that is reserved for high-end fashion brands. The luxury hammam, 25-meter pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre are expertly designed, and make the most of the space and views.
FACIAL TREATMENT IN ABU DHABI
The Pearl Spa – Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island
The Pearl Spa has a boutique feel and is known for its quartz sand therapy. The menu includes HydraFacials and Sodashi Holistic Facials. Put your best face forward, thanks to the LED Light Therapy, Lymphatic Therapy or the Marine Mineral Facial. Plus, when you want to feel A-list, book the Celebrity HydraFacial Booster.
FACIAL TREATMENT IN DUBAI
Armani/SPA – Armani Hotel Dubai
Addresses don’t get more Dubai than Burj Khalifa. Armani/Spa matches the prestige of its location and manages to be what every city spa aspires to be – an escape from the bustle on its doorstep. Spanning a massive 12,000 square feet, the spa is inspired by its namesake – Giorgio Armani – and boasts a slick design. The facial treatments can be done in a range of time slots spanning 25 to 150 minutes.
COUPLES TREATMENT IN ABU DHABI
eforea spa – Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island’s eforea spa is charming for couples. Boasting a minimalist design, it includes wooden features, neutral tones and warm lighting. The beds are on wooden frames, which give it a back-to-nature vibe. Plus, the spa is home to a hammam, and offers facials to massages.
COUPLES TREATMENT IN DUBAI
Awaken Spa – Atlantis The Royal
Atlantis The Royal’s Awaken Spa is in a luxurious location on Palm Jumeirah. Spanning more than 5,000 square feet, the tall, black, discreet doors open to a world of relaxation. The facilities include a fitness, steam room, sauna and indoor as well as outdoor pools. The couple’s treatments include the Golden Cloud Couple’s Hammam, Sweet Love The One and Twin Flame.
HAMMAM TREATMENT IN ABU DHABI
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
When you step into The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, it feels like you are stepping into a luxe Bedouin home. Think Arabic carpets, plush cushions and, of course, a beautiful Moroccan hammam. We’d recommend the Mystic Moroccan Hammam, which is a two-and-a-half-hour experience including a full body exfoliation, clay body mask and Argan hair oil application. If you want to share the experience, book The Royal Couples Hammam – you’ll leave feeling like royalty.
HAMMAM TREATMENT IN DUBAI
One&Only Spa – One&Only Royal Mirage
One&Only Spa’s hammam is the stuff that hammam dreams are made of – think steam rooms, marble slams and herbal baths. The signature treatment is the Traditional Turkish Hammam with with Kessa mitts and black soap. One&Only Spa is also home to 12 exclusive treatment suites, ESPA-inspired massages and facials, steam rooms, saunas and plunge pools. This beautiful beachfront oasis evokes the opulence and splendour of an Arabian palace – the ideal setting for a traditional Hammam.
SIGNATURE SPA TREATMENT IN ABU DHABI
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
You’ll feel like royalty when you visit The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, as it has the kind of opulence you expect from a luxury hotel. Spanning 1,500 square meters, it is designed for special occasions, and the treatments include options for brides, grooms and couples. The Spa offers three unique hammam rituals inspired by Moroccan and Turkish practices. The Spa also conducts Mindful Meetings, Visiting Wellness Practitioner Retreats, and corporate initiatives.
SIGNATURE SPA TREATMENT IN DUBAI
The Pearl Spa – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
The Pearl Spa is a luxurious haven for your relaxation and rejuvenation needs. Specialised services range from a personalised anti-ageing treatment with Dr Burgener to HydraFacial technology. The Arabian-inspired spa is so beautifully designed and brightly lit across the indoor lap pool as well as rooms big enough for two. The massage menu includes a Swedish massage, Thai massage, reflexology, and pre and post-natal massage.
SPA-CATION IN THE UAE
Spa InterContinental – InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa
Spa InterContinental boasts a range of anti-ageing and wellness treatments, along with modern remedies to melt away stress and enliven the senses. Drawing inspiration from the UAE, treatments include a UAE Massage with lavender, peppermint and wild chamomile. Plus, the Turkish Hammam Discovery is ideal for those who want to the ultimate unwinding experience.
BOUTIQUE SPA IN DUBAI
Iridium Spa – The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm
Iridium Spa in The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm is pure decadence. The space includes six treatment suites, ladies and gentlemen’s relaxation areas, a sauna and a steam room. Every aspect of the spa sanctuary is custom-created to captivate the heightened senses. The spa menu is split into four sections along with an array of enhancements and finishing touches: Massage (offering curated and bespoke experiences with a choice of three sensory escapes), Body Treatment (marrying classic body treatments with elegant innovation), Facial (offering high-precision and clinically proven facial treatments suitable for both men and women), and Journey (a collection of elegant treatments devised to focus on relaxation).
CITY SPA IN ABU DHABI
The EDITION Spa – The Abu Dhabi EDITION
When you want a modern yet urban vibe, head to The EDITION Spa. The spa has six treatment rooms with private dressing rooms and a couple’s suite. The facial menu is impressive and uses premium products. Options include Blue Diamond by Omorovicza, Gold Hydra Lift by Omorovicza and Tripple Oxygen Glow by Ling. Plus, facial add-ons include an eye and lip mask.
CITY SPA IN DUBAI
Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie – One&Only One Za’abeel
One&Only One Za’abeel’s Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie makes the most of its city spot. While it’s on the 28th floor, it feels like you’re floating above the clouds. The contemporary and calming design includes marble floors, soft white furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows of the Burj Khalifa. Launched in 1931 in Montreux, Switzerland, Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie has led the way in wellness. The focus is on preventative care so that, as the name suggests, people can live not just a longer life but a longer, healthier life. The holistic, personalised approach – which starts with questions on our sleep to stress levels – sets it apart.
RESORT SPA IN ABU DHABI
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Visiting The Spa at Mandarin Oriental is akin to stepping into a realm of royalty, where opulence meets luxury hotel standards. Encompassing a lavish 1,500 square meters, this spa is crafted for special occasions, offering an array of treatments tailored for brides, grooms, and couples alike. Among its highlights are three distinctive hammam rituals, drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of Morocco and Turkey. Additionally, The Spa hosts Mindful Meetings, Visiting Wellness Practitioner Retreats, and corporate initiatives, ensuring a holistic wellness experience beyond traditional treatments.
RESORT SPA IN DUBAI
The Spa – Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
The tranquillity is real at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai. When only opulence will do, there are treatments aplenty: Royal Saffron uses 24k gold, saffron and mogra, and Oriental Harmony lets you get massaged by two therapists at once. We love that you can make a day (or three) out of your spa time – choose from A Gentleman’s Day to Empowering Me – A Woman’s Journey. Plus, the spa prides itself on taking a holistic approach, as proven by the three-day ReEnergise detox with a nutritionist, personal trainer, massage and yoga.
SPA OF THE YEAR IN ABU DHABI
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Last year, the Spa at Mandarin Oriental – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi underwent a refurbishment. Built on ancient Eastern healing traditions and personalised therapies, The Spa delivers restorative experiences to both resort guests and locals. The signature treatments draw inspiration from the rich heritage of the region. The highlights include Oriental Qi and Essence of Abu Dhabi. Exclusive treatments are designed using products from a range of internationally acclaimed brands such as OTO CBD, Tata Harper, and 111SKIN.
SPA OF THE YEAR IN DUBAI
The Spa – Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
Consistency is king at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, which has impressed year after year. The treatments ooze Dubai luxury: Royal Saffron uses 24k gold, saffron and mogra, and Oriental Harmony lets you get massaged by two therapists at once. Make a day (or three) out of your spa time – choose from A Gentleman’s Day to Empowering Me – A Woman’s Journey. Plus, the spa prides itself on taking a holistic approach, as proven by the three-day ReEnergise detox with a nutritionist, personal trainer, massage and yoga.
