Peek between the glamorous skyscrapers and shopping malls and you’ll discover another side to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates – one of sensational spas and beaches, surprising spots in which you can reconnect with nature and friendly locals who take pride in welcoming guests to their city.

So take a deep breath, shift your mindset into a more gentle pace with these rejuvenating experiences across Dubai.

Take it slow at a spa

After soaking in the Arabian sun, it’s important to rehydrate and nourish your skin. Fortunately, we have a number of award-winning Talise Spas which are renowned for one-of-a-kind treatments that combine ancient techniques with contemporary concepts and striking architecture. Our signature treatments, for example, include hammam rituals inspired by ancient Ottoman traditions, facials using earthy ingredients and bespoke massages to regenerate specific muscles.

The Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is the modern-day answer to a traditional Ottoman spa lined with marble, intricate mosaics and murals. Although the spa offers spectacular treatment rooms and seawater thalassotherapy pools, the real star of the show is the Turkish hammam, which allows you to experience a centuries-old relaxation method which uses gently heated marble to relax the muscles.

For a real Emirati experience, venture over to the spa on the 18th floor of sail-shaped Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, which has sweeping views of the city and sparkling Arabian Gulf. The best time to receive a blissful treatment or take a swim in our sky-high pool is at sunrise or sunset, when you can watch the sky glow in pink and orange hues.

Alternatively, choose the Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al Qasr where treatment villas sit among meandering waterways and verdant meditation gardens, transporting you away from bustling city life.

Sunrise yoga on the beach

Our beachside yoga sessions are designed to help you achieve inner balance and fully relax. Start your day the right way with a sunrise yoga session – an invigorating way to wake up as the sun appears over the horizon.

Alternatively, as evening approaches wind down in a full moon class. As the moon glows like a pearl in the night sky, lighting up our pristine white sands and the ocean beyond, one of our instructors will unite you with the celestial body to restore your energy.

Feed the soul by connecting with nature

Drive 90 minutes east of Dubai and you’ll find yourself in the town of Hatta, at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains. The region is scattered with craggy peaks which provide hikers with extraordinary views. The large rock behind Hatta Dam for example boasts a stunning viewpoint overlooking the water, from which you can spot rare wildlife such as the Arabian sand cat. The region’s jagged cliffs are made for rock climbing. You can also experience invigorating activities such as ziplining, archery, rope courses and water slides, or go kayaking across the dam.

If you’d prefer to stay closer to home, you can explore Dubai’s shimmering coastline by kayak or paddle board from any of our beach hotels. Our concierge teams can also recommend the city’s best parks, promenades and running routes for you to maintain your step count.

Plan the perfect wellness getaway in Dubai with Jumeirah.