Dubai may not be known as a wellness destination, but The Retreat Palm is set on changing that.
1. The United Arab Emirates’ first holistic wellbeing hotel
This urban sanctuary bills itself as half-resort, half-clinic, and caters to health-conscious travellers who want to get more out of their holiday than a tan – DNA analysis and cryotherapy, for instance. Everything is on hand for a profound mind-body-soul makeover, including life coaches, stylists, doctors, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) trainers and the first international branch of the Glenville Nutrition Clinic.
2. A 24-hour micro retreat
For those short on time, the hotel offers a 24-hour package that promises to help guests “disconnect from an ‘always-on’ lifestyle and reconnect with themselves”. Available until the end of September at a rate of AED 999 (S$372), it includes a single night’s stay, plus a plethora of wellness offerings ranging from a consultation with a naturopathic doctor to spa treatments, colour therapy, superfood-rich meals and juices, sunset yoga and a “Mind Detox”.
3. Ideal for women travelling solo
Sofitel’s M Gallery brand, which The Retreat Palm Dubai is a part of, is all about catering to women. Here, this philosophy manifests in a brochure that quotes American poet Maya Angelou and female-oriented services ranging from free nail-varnish remover to treatments that address women’s health and wellbeing. A range of in-room treatments exclusively for women holidaying on their own includes services such as the Sleep Well In-Room Bath Experience, which consists of a sleep consultation, scented candles and your choice of ergonomic TechnoGel pillows.
4. A cravings-busting minibar
The hotel goes to great lengths to ensure that guests have access to nutritious eats when those late-night cravings hit. For instance, the minibar is stocked with all manner of healthy treats such as kale chips, coconut water and dark chocolate – all organic, of course.
5. Ultra-personalised wellness
Bio-individuality is at the centre of The Retreat Palm’s ethos, with an emphasis on a detailed pre-arrival assessment and close cooperation between the hotel’s medical staff, nutritionists and wellness chef. While the health centre offers DNA analysis, the Rayya Spa focuses on customisable spa and beauty treatments featuring products from French organic cosmetics company Altearah and natural bath salts purveyor Salt of the Earth. Plus, post-stay follow-ups ensure you get the most out of your tailor-made wellness programme.
Singapore Airlines flies to Dubai daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
