In today’s modern world, residents of the globe’s major cities are increasingly enjoying a fast-paced lifestyle, and Abu Dhabi, as one of the world’s leading financial hubs, is no exception. When the city’s discerning residents seek respite, they turn to the capital’s exclusive wellness retreats. Read on to discover the very best resorts for rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation in and around the city.
Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi
Less than an hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi Corniche, this secluded getaway is about as close to tranquil perfection as one might wish to experience. In fact, the drive out into the desert adds to the sense of serenity coursing through this upscale establishment.
Upon arrival, guests are met with architecture inspired by traditional Emirati dwellings, which serve as the perfect backdrop for a weekend of relaxation. The natural beauty of the surrounding desert has been expertly harnessed at Al Wathba, as guests seek to rebalance their equilibrium in lavish surroundings. Set in the luxury hotel of the same name, the spa serves as the centrepoint of the whole resort, boasting breathtaking facilities, expertly curated with exquisite materials.
Within, guests can indulge in an array of world-class facilities and a range of signature experiences. The Memories of the Desert is an uplifting experience which allows guests to unwind both body and mind, while the full-body scrub massage will relieve even the most tense of visitors. Hydrating and cleansing, this revitalising affair will leave you glowing and ready to take on the world.
Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
Nestled on the coast near the Dubai border, this opulent hideaway is undeniably one of Abu Dhabi’s most exclusive wellness offerings.
Harnessing the exclusivity of Santorini through impeccable Mediterranean-style architecture, the resort functions as a picturesque hideaway where every guest can indulge in rest and rejuvenation, perfectly complemented by elevated hospitality.
The spa itself is a love letter to health and wellness; a place where mind and body can be cleansed of the stresses and strains of modern life through a range of calming treatments.
Boutique pampering amid total tranquillity is what this exquisite spa is all about: Two luxury treatment rooms, a Moroccan hammam, a Himalayan salt sauna and steam room, and a cold plunge pool are just some of the facilities on offer, while signature treatments include cryotherapy, the Moroccan Bath Experience and the Island Lava Shell Massage.
Sense, A Rosewood Spa
Located within the Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel on Al Maryah Island, this enchanting spa functions as a haven of tranquillity for body and mind. Using local healing traditions, a team of experts is on hand to provide guests with a variety of signature treatments, such as the Glow & Relax experience by Dr. Barbara Strum. The Super Anti-Ageing Facial is complemented by a 30-minute massage of your choice: either an upper body or foot and lower leg.
This serene facility boasts other outstanding treatments, like the Jewel of Arabia, a comprehensive 4-hour experience which includes a sugar body scrub, a scalp massage, and a customised 90-minute massage using Arabian Sense body oil. This is followed by a 90-minute Sense signature facial, using the very best of the spa’s signature facial products.
With a range of further services on offer, such as Sense skin care rituals, hammam chamber rituals and men’s grooming, visitors to Sense, a Rosewood Spa can indulge in an expertly crafted holistic wellness journey.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Set within the lush grounds of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental hotel at the western end of Corniche Beach, this is where Moroccan wellness culture, local therapies and oriental heritage seamlessly combine to create some of the finest healing techniques in the city.
Personalised treatments are a big part of the appeal here, with spa cabanas allowing guests to truly relax. A state-of-the-art fitness centre, outdoor pools and even a high-end barber add to the allure.
The 3-hour Rise Of The Dawn is a revitalising detox journey, incorporating things like a ceremonial detox hammam, cold therapy designed to reduce inflammation and soothe acne, as well as specialised massage with contemporary cupping techniques. This exceptional retreat also offers a range of programs for health-conscious guests, such as the Earth to Sky, a restorative movement-based initiative with yoga sessions and breath control exercises. The routine also includes a plant-based lunch and a nurturing vegan facial, all carefully curated for a truly relaxing experience.
The Spa at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
The pace of life on Saadiyat Island is set to a slightly slower beat. A tranquil setting in its own right, thanks to sun-drenched beaches and enchanting museums, Saadiyat is also home to the distinguished St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which boasts one of the most alluring spa retreats in the city.
A place where timeless tradition meets contemporary sophistication, guests can embrace the natural surroundings of the spa’s pristine beachfront location while indulging in a range of world-class treatments.
Signature services include The 400, a 150-minute treatment inspired by Gilded-Age New York high society, which incorporates a full-body scrub, an aromatic massage and a replenishing triple active facial. The 90-minute Tekmida Body Ritual is another highlight of this upscale spa; a unique treatment covering a Moroccan-inspired body scrub designed to relieve tension and rebalance energy flow.
With a further range of body massages, facials and rituals on display, this tranquil spa also boasts its own range of accessories designed to boost results and enhance your St Regis Spa experience.
Whatever wellness experience you happen to be seeking in Abu Dhabi, the city offers an option to suit every need. Renowned for its world-class health spas, where exquisite surroundings blend seamlessly with time-honoured treatments, discerning visitors can indulge in a diverse array of therapies designed to relax, replenish, and rejuvenate.
