Everything about UAE is about holistic experiences. Be it tourist-friendly destinations, high-street shopping arcades, rising skyscrapers, historic landmarks, adventure sporting activities, or wellness rituals – the capital of the United Arab Emirates can never disappoint you.
Since this region invariably stays heated up for almost nine months in a year, it is natural that local residents and tourists find ways to seek solace from the sun. Indulging in a therapeutic session and pampering the body and the mind at a tranquil-filled spa is an ideal pastime for many.
After all, Abu Dhabi boasts some of the best spas in the world. From Moroccan Hammam to salt stone massage, glowing skin, stimulated endorphins, scrubs, facials, to body wraps, you get it all in this beautiful city. In breathtaking locations, amidst picturesque backdrops, you are in for one of the most pleasurable and profound experiences ever.
This is a treat that you deserve and may not have gifted yourself for some time now. Which are the best places for such blissful experiences? We have it all covered for you so that by the time you finish reading about the ten best spas in Abu Dhabi, you’ll be all set to head off to these for a rewarding escapade.
Best Spas in Abu Dhabi
Anantara Spa
Hidden amidst the dunes in the desert, and nestled on the premises of the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, the signature spa is a zone of ultimate relaxation. It features 2 steam rooms, a sauna, private yoga classes, 1 ice room, 2 heated jacuzzis, a Thai Sala between October and April, separate changing areas for men and women, and more.
If you are looking for excellent Middle Eastern remedies, Biologique Recherche, and Thai massages, this is the best place to be. The signature treatments include the Arabian Desert Rose Ritual, Desert Retreat, Synchronized 4 Hand Massage, Desert Fusion Massage, Abhyanga, Indian Head Massage, Raksha AA-Gaan Massage & Lukaprob Massage (Thai).
There are also dedicated places for meditation sessions that are led by international yogis. A few of the iconic treatments are done by expert masseurs using argan, rose, and rhassoul body treatments.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 10:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Location: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi/spa
Contact Number: +971 2 886 2088.
Email: anantaraspa.qas@anantara.com
The Hideaway by Emirates Palace Spa
Palatial and extensively elegant, it has been designed to re-energize the mind, body, and soul. From the moment you step in, it’s all about Middle-Eastern tranquility and noteworthily Moroccan decor throughout. It’s pristine marble and glowing lanterns all around with a separate entrance for guests from the Emirates Palace Hotel. Every element radiates luxuriousness, be it the plush suede sofa, the private suites, a brass pot of tea, jacuzzis, ice caves, or steam rooms.
Signature treatment massages include Thai massage, deep tissue, and aromatherapy. A ‘Ladies Only Tuesday’ special package includes choices from a Deluxe Hydrafacial, a Bastien Gonzalez Pedicure or Manicure ritual, or a Black Diamond Scrub Touch. There are membership offers too for the interested.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 10:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Location: West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/abu-dhabi/emirates-palace/spa
Contact Number: 971 2 690 7885
Email: epauh-spa@mohg.com
Chi the Spa
At Shangri-la Hotel in Qaryat Al Beri, rejuvenation reaches new heights in the relaxing ambiance of the Chi. Inspired by Hong Kong’s Shangri-la, it has everything Asian. Amenities include facials, manicures, pedicures, pool, scrub, and massages of all types. This is a standalone spa within the premises, with the interiors done up in dark wood furnishings. Making it further enchanted, there are pops of red and burgundy everywhere.
The treatment suites are small chambers of luxury designed for the tranquility of the mind. The treatments are also personalized as per the needs of the guest and incorporate a lot of natural elements and local products like camel milk, Arabian sea salts, and more.
While you are waiting for your appointment, you can enjoy a cup of hot tea and tidbits at the Rooftop Infinity Pool (adults-only). The view from the rooftop is that of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the distance. It is one of the most popular ones in the local community. Some of the Arabian rituals here are the best in the city. Definitely, worth a try!
Timing/Days: Open every day from 10:00 hours to 00:00 hours.
Location: Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi, Qaryat Al Beri, Rabdan, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.shangri-la.com/abudhabi/shangrila/health-leisure/chi-the-spa/
Contact Number: +971 2 5098904
Email: chi.abudhabi@shangri-la.com
Iridium Spa
St. Regis is the location of this uber-luxurious spa with a dedicated entrance and valet parking. You are greeted by a stunning water feature and, of course, the choicest pre-treatment treats. The name of the place resonates with the rareness of the Iridium element.
The guests are also allowed to access the pool and the beach facilities of the hotel. There are 12 treatment rooms with separate ladies’ and gents’ sections. Each section has wet areas featuring a hammam, steam, and sauna.
The St. Regis Spa at Abu Dhabi is built on the line of the Iridium Room at St. Regis New York, which has been setting the best standards in the spa industry since 1938. Both articulate elegance of a different kind with the similar decor of the treatment suites and also the tea ritual, which is a signature form of pre-treating guests.
You can pick from a range of treatments, including massages, therapy baths, togetherness packages, scalp treatments, facials, etc.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 11:00 hours to 23:00 hours.
Location: St. Regis, Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.iridiumspaabudhabi.com
Contact Number: +971 2 498 8996
Email: iridium.saadiyat@stregis.com
EDITION Spa
One of the biggest names to fame for the Edition Spa is its partnership with Rossano Ferretti’s designer hair salon. Rossano Ferretti is one of the world’s best hairdressers. The overall backdrop within the place reflects the hospitable spirit of the Emirates. Before treatments, guests are served signature beverages, refreshments, and tonics that have been hand-blended.
There are a total of 7 treatment suites. Guests at EDITION are offered tailored treatments suited to their specific conditions. All in all, this place is high on bespoke experiences related to scents, touch, sound, and the use of high-end products.
EDITION also offers its guests access to the two Life Fitness gyms equipped with state-of-art equipment like exercise balls, cardio tools, free weights, and more.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 10:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Location: Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.editionhotels.com/abu-dhabi/spa-and-fitness/
Contact Number: +971 (0) 2 208 0000.
Remède Spa at The St. Regis
It’s like a dream world that you enter at the Remède Spa in St. Regis. Chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, opulent marble flooring all across, gold-shimmering walls, embossed curtains, and world-class furnishings with a luxurious overtone. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and the Corniche, the ambiance satiates your mind and soul even before the treatment begins.
The entire place covers about 3,200 sq. meters. There are 11 suites dedicated to treatments where premium products & toiletries from Elemis and Laboratoire Remede are used. Most of these suites come with sea views. As a pre-treatment ritual, fresh juices and herbal teas are served to guests, accompanied by dry fruits and nuts.
The treatments include the trademark Remède and Elemis therapies combined with locally-inspired techniques and locally-sourced ingredients. Get ready to rejuvenate your senses with highly-trained Balinese therapists here.
Timing/Days: Open every weekday from 11:00 hours to 22:00 hours and weekends from 11:00 hours to 23:00 hours
Location: St. Regis, Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.remedespaabudhabi.com/
Contact Number: +971 2 694 4100
Email: Remede.Abudhabi@stregis.com
Sense at Rosewood
This sensual spa offers signature treatments that are based on Arabian healing traditions and ingredients. The treatments use plant-powered products from Votary, a renowned sustainable beauty brand.
The iconic Sound Healing Therapy is a holistic treatment that is derived from ancient meditative practices. The sound created by various musical instruments brings the body and the mind to a meditative state and, in the process, creates a healing ambiance. The Sense features singing bowl therapists who use gongs and quartz bowls to create different healing frequencies.
Other than the sound healing therapies, there are yoga sessions organized on Mondays and Wednesdays. Special sessions on Hatha Yoga are organized from 0900 hours to 1000 hours, while Deep Stretch & Release Therapy is held from 1930 hours to 2030 hours on Wednesdays.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 11:00 hours to 21:00 hours.
Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/abu-dhabi/wellness/spa
Contact Number: + 971 2 813 5550.
Email: abudhabi.sensespa@rosewoodhotels.com
The Pearl Spa at Four Seasons
The Four Seasons Hotel at Al Maryah Island is known for its signature ritual called the Memories of Arabia. It involves exfoliation of the full body with coffee, followed by moisturizing with camel milk and honey. Additionally, there’s traditional hair treatment and the Arabian Oud Tension Relief Massage, rendered with Arabian Oud oil.
Known for its penchant for customized services, great care is taken at the place to implement Low-Touch Therapies to align with the needs of changing guest preferences. The HYPERVOLT Recover Therapy is excellent after a workout at the Fitness Centre. The products used here belong to the wellness brand Sodashi, an Australian company that makes eco-friendly products. The Sodashi Organic Therapy is one of the most recommended that uses body balance Salt Glow products to drive the best results.
Another therapy popular at the place is the Gold Quartz Healing Therapy based on Psammo Therapy, an ancient Greek concept.
Timing/Days: All treatments start from 11:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Location: Global Market Square, Street 2, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/abudhabi/spa/
Contact Number: +971 2 333 2500
Email: ThePearlSpa.abudhabi@fourseasons.com
Namm Spa at Dusit Thani
The Namm at Dusit Thani in Abu Dhabi works with water to pamper the body, soul, and mind. The overall ethos is that of minimalism surrounded by fragrant aromas. One of the most popular therapies at the place includes the signature Thai Heritage Therapy.
The treatment begins with the Hermit Body Twist, which improves blood circulation, and aromatherapy massage using traditional Thai medicinal formulas. The final part is the full body massage focusing on the pressure points.
The place has eight treatment rooms. Overlooking the Corniche, the place is an extension of the famed iconic Bangkok-based NAMM Spa.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 11:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Location: Sultan Bin Zayed The First Street (Al Muroor Road), Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.dusit.com/dusitthani-abudhabi/
Email: songsri.kaewkam@dusit.com
Anjana Spa
With an all-inclusive ethos, Turkish ambiance, and Ottoman architecture, this is one of the largest in Abu Dhabi. Spread across 7,000 sq. ft, it is a part of the Rixos Palm on the Saadiyat Island and has a world-class menu starting from traditional Hammam to a Turkish bath.
One distinct feature of the place is the Snow Room, the only one of its kind in the city. VIP suites are good for honeymooning couples that include a private sauna and jacuzzi. The philosophy of the place is about ‘water without borders.’ The sound of flowing water has been integrated with the core design of the place.
The treatments revolve around the use of Moroccon skincare products which are either plant-grown or mineral-rich. Some of the key oils used are wild rose, argan oil, honey extracts, and orange flower.
Timing/Days: Open every day from 10:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Location: Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Website: https://www.rixos.com/en/anjana-spa-1
Contact Number: 044575415
FAQs
What is the benefit of going to a Spa?
A spa offers holistic healing. It is a space where your mind and body can relax and rejuvenate with different kinds of bespoke treatments.
Is a spa legal in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, they are legal in the city, provided they have the necessary licenses and are registered with the authorities.