text: 50 to try: Dubai spas The city's finest pampering hotspots By Time Out Dubai staff 05 April 2010 Time Out Dubai picks the 50 top spas to chill out in in 2010 Akaru Spa: After making use of the various sports facilities at the Aviation Club, you'll be in desperate need of some relaxation. Luckily, the sleek marble lines and wooden decorative features garnished with ferns and flowers at Akaru Spa are a welcome sight for anyone in need of pampering. The services offered include facials, massages and body wraps, or plump for one of their special monthly treatment packages. The Aviation Club (04 282 8578; www.akaruspa.com). Women's spa open daily 10am-10pm; men's spa open Sun-Thu 2pm-10pm, Fri & Sat 10am-10pm. Price range: Dhs20 for waxing to Dhs999 for three-session contouring treatment Alasalla Spa: The Alasalla Spa is a woman's one-stop-shop for relaxation, indulgence and beauty treatments – just the job if you need help getting ready for a night on the town. The subtly lit rooms are decorated with modern and traditional Arabic elements, including vaulted archways and colourful tile mosaics. Services range from the time-honoured hammam style to the more conventional Swedish, and there are aromatherapy massages. The therapists also specialise in hair tinting and removal, as well as pedicures and manicures for keeping fingers and toes in shape. Dubai Ladies Club, Jumeirah Beach Road, near Jumeirah Beach Park (04 349 9922; www.dubailadiesclub.com). Open daily 8am-10pm. Price range: Dhs20 for French polish change for hands to Dhs3,670 for bridal package over two months Amara: Situated in the beautifully bright and breezy Moroccan-inspired Park Hyatt hotel, the Amara Spa offers a complete range of treatments and services that are sure to de-stress even the most uptight, overworked and highly strung among us. Go on your own or grab your partner/BFF and book into one of the couple's rooms a reflexology and Indian head massage ritual, or, if you're feeling blocked up, go for the unusual ear candling treatment. There's an outdoor rain shower available before massages in the private courtyards attached to each treatment room. As an added bonus, if you book in for a treatment at Amara, you're also able to use the pool and gym facilities for the day. Park Hyatt Dubai (04 602 1660; www.dubai.park.hyatt.com). Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs380 for stress-release massage or hydra radiance facial to Dhs2,055 for five-hour emerald journey Angsana Spa at The Address Montgomaerie Dubai: The Angsana Spa, nestled among the rolling greens of the Montgomerie golf course, offers six treatment rooms and a comprehensive menu of treatments and therapies, placing special emphasis on the use of natural ingredients such as native flowers, fruits, herbs, spices and plants. With aromatherapy and a fusion of techniques from the East and West, this gorgeous spa will relax you so much, a round of golf will likely be out of the question. The Address Montgomerie Dubai (04 390 5600). Open daily 10.30am-10pm. Price range: Dhs285 for a 30min head, foot or back massage to Dhs1,050 for 3hr30min top-to-toe treatment Angsana Spa: This modern but relaxed spa has 13 treatment rooms, with separate areas for men and women. Angsana's signature treatment is a two-hour pummelling with oils that mixes Asian and European techniques. Other treatments include body polishes, which employ natural ingredients from ginger and lemongrass to rice and soya, and fusion baths, immersing you in cocoa, coffee, lemongrass, and thyme. Level two, Marina Walk, Dubai Marina (04 368 4356; www.angsanaspa.com). Open daily 10am-11pm, last booking 9.30pm. Price range: Dhs285 for 30min back massage to Dhs1,050 for top-to-toe four-hour packages. Other locations: Arabian Ranches (04 361 8251); Emirates Hills (04 368 3222) Armonia Spa: There are lots of plush hotels in the Marina area of town, and that means lots of spas to choose from. The Armonia is a small, intimate affair compared to some of the others, but is still big on skill and professionalism. There are four treatment rooms, all individually styled in relaxing watercolour themes, and spa-goers can enjoy a welcoming aromatic foot massage before each treatment. If you're suffering from aching muscles, try the hot stone massage, or the jetlag treatment – a full body and head massage – is just the remedy for those fresh off the plane. Just make sure you book in early to get your preferred treatment time. Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers (04 399 5533). Open daily 9am-9pm. Price range: Dhs100 for 20min scalp massage to Dhs495 for remineralizing algae body treatment Aroma Spa: Coloured in deep rich hues and set against the backdrop of Dubai Marine's private beach, the Aroma Spa offers everything from a simple manicure to a full day of pampering. The facials are good here, and you can choose Guinot or Payot products. The spa also offers Ionithermie slimming and detox treatments. Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa (04 346 1111; www.dxbmarine.com; email@example.com). Open daily 9am-9pm. Price range: Dhs350 for 50min full body massage to Dhs4,350 for 'Ionithermie' slimming treatments Assawan Spa: This lavishly decorated spa is located on the 18th floor of Dubai's iconic landmark hotel, with spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. There are separate male and female areas, eight spa treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam bath, a plunge pool, a Jacuzzi and a solarium. If you're feeling flush, try a full- or half-day treatment with facial, body polish and massage. Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Road (04 301 7338; www.burj-al-arab.com). Open daily 6.30am-10.30pm. Price range: Dhs375 for 25-minute salt and oil scrub to Dhs2,100 for 150min extreme indulgence Atlantis Spa: Indulge yourself at one of the iconic hotel's 27 treatment rooms. Offering a variety of pampering rituals to help you relax, we recommend you treat your feet here as world-renowned foot specialist Bastien Gonzalez has a team of specialists at the spa. Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah (04 426 1020). Open daily 10am-10pm. Price range: Dhs60 for 15-min eyebrow treatment to Dhs3,360 for three-hour treatment in the royal spa suite Caracalla Spa: Although this spa is normally open only to hotel guests and members of the Caracalla Club, treatments can be booked by other visitors and residents if there are any free slots. The spa features steam and sauna rooms, plus a Jacuzzi and a hammam. You can also opt to have your treatments outside in a specially designed cabanas. Le Royal Méridien, Al Sufouh Road, Jumeirah (04 399 5555; www.leroyalmeridien-dubai.com). Open daily 9.30am-9pm. Price range: Dhs200 for ear candling to Dhs670 for 55min hot stone treatment Clarins Spa: No surprises that this spa uses Clarins products, so if you're a fan of the brand, head on down for a fantastic facial, body treatment or some self tanning. All treatment rooms overlook the marina or the Gulf, making for a plush and relaxing experience from the start. It is also the first Clarins Spa to offer dedicated treatments for men. Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Spa (04 318 1904; www.lemeridien-minaseyahi.com). Open daily 9am-9pm. Price range: Dhs50 for waxing to Dhs2,600 for 3hr30min heavenly escape for two Cleopatra's Spa: This Egyptian-themed (no surprises there) spa is one of the few to offer Hopi ear candling. Cleopatra's also offers facials, international massages, body wraps and both male and female grooming facilities. The therapists specialise in holistic ayurvedic services too. Look out for its monthly promotions listed on the website. The spa is divided into male and female areas, both with sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room and plunge pool. Wafi Pyramids (04 324 7700/04 324 4356; www.waficity.com). Female spa open daily 8.30am-8pm. Male spa Mon-Sat 9.30am-10pm. Price range: Dhs230 for 30min back massage to Dhs1,350 for package treatments The Dental Spa: Only in Dubai do you come across a concept such as a dental spa. Although the dentist chairs massage you and the TV screens above you transmit soothing images of crashing waves and rolling mountains, the Dental Spa is far from a gimmick; it offers some of the most sophisticated dentistry in town. Plasma power whitening and wireless othodontics are among the treatments available to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Say cheese! Jumeirah Beach Road (04 395 2005; www.thedentalspa.org; firstname.lastname@example.com). Open Sat-Thu 9am-7pm. Price range: Dhs60 for single X-ray to Dhs32,000 for Invisalign (straightening) treatment Dragonfly Retreat: Offering 'a touch of the Orient' in the middle of a mall is no mean feat. But the dark brown furnishings, wooden panelling and Asian-inspired design do the trick. The facility offers a whole variety of Chinese and Japanese body and feet massages, aromatherapy and facials. All the treatments can be customised to suit your particular requirements, and to deal with any health issues you may have. For the whole shebang, look out for the Ultimate Indulgence package, which includes a Chinese or Japanese shiatsu massage combined with an oriental foot therapy. Dragonfly also offers a number of beauty treatments, including waxing, threading, manicures and pedicures. BurJuman (04 351 1120; www.dragonfly.ae). Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 9am-9pm. Price range: Dhs15 for waxing or Dhs1,199 for 2hr30min everlasting calm treatment Dreamworks: implies, a trip to Dreamworks will render even the most stressed-out person into a gooey mess of sleep-like calm. The staff are all trained in Bali and are famed for providing some of the best reflexology treatments in the city. The New Gold Souk Centre, Bur Dubai (800 627 7243; www.dreamworks.ae). Open daily 10am-midnight. Price range: Dhs100 for 30min foot reflexology to Dhs300 for allergy testing As the name. Other location: Ibis Hotel, World Trade Centre (800 627 7243) Elixir Spa & Health Club: Enter Elixir at the Marina-based Habtoor Grand hotel and you'll find six treatment rooms, a dry float room and tanning booth. The spa menu offers something for both men and women. Want to be pampered at the same time as your partner? No problem. Just ask for a couple's suite. Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina (04 399 5000; www.habtoorhotels.com). Open daily 6am-10pm. Price range: Dhs30 for French pedicure to Dhs850 for two-hour skin and sculpt treatment Eternel MedSpa: Enter into the world of Eternel MedSpa, where you can be transformed in a relaxing first-class medispa. With an extensive treatment list, offering a blend of medical and aesthetic skin, slimming and hair treatments, you can be assured you will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Jumeirah Beach Road, opp Jumeirah Beach Park, Gate 5 (04 344 0008; www.eternelmedspa.com; email@example.com). Open Sat-Thu 9am-6pm; closed Fri. Call for treatment prices The Grand Spa: The Grand Spa is a modern and tasteful candlelit establishment, which stocks luxury Italian brand Bella Lucce. There is also a gym, squash court and 20m indoor pool. The spa's therapists do great facials, but you should treat yourself to the four-hour 'Grand Chocolate Experience', which includes a Peruvian chocolate facial and fondue body wrap. Delicious. Grand Hyatt Hotel (04 317 1234; www.dubai.grand.hyatt.com). Open daily 7am-11pm. Price range: Dhs350 for 1hr relaxation massage to Dhs1,370 for 2hr his 'n' her time out H20 the Male Spa: H20 provides a range of therapies for the Dubai man, including manicures, pedicures, tanning, waxing, facial therapy and massage. Many of these treatments are designed to dispel discomforts associated with travelling and long-haul flights, but maybe a taxi ride over still qualifies. For something different, try the floatation pool, which involves floating in the privacy of a salt water tank while listening to soothing music. It sounds a bit daft but it sure does take away the pressures on aching joints. Also try the oxygen lounge, which eases muscles with the use of massaging Cosmos chairs, while you are treated to a dose of pure oxygen and 3D movies. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road (04 319 8181). Open daily 9am-11pm. Price range: Dhs175 for 25min de-stress hand maintenance to Dhs825 for 1hr25min executive package. Men only Heavenly Spa: The Westin hotel has upped Dubai's luxury stakes no end, and one of the ways it has done this is with its spa, Heavenly (indeed). Featuring 11 treatment rooms, each client is welcomed to the sanctuary with their signature ritual, which employs aromatic oils, energy revitalisation and sublime massage techniques. Just right for getting you in the mood to use the facilities at the hotel's watersports centre. Westin Mina Seyahi (04 399 4141 / 04 511 7901; www.westin.com). Open daily 8am-10pm. Price range: Dhs50 for eyebrow tint to Dhs2,600 for 3hr30min heavenly escape for two Jasmine Spa: Jasmine features nine treatment rooms, one of which is a Turkish hammam complete with marble bed, where a sea salt scrub is applied to your body to smooth the skin and improve circulation. If you want something different, you might like the caviar facial for. It involves using caviar extract rather than the fish eggs themselves, mixed into a lotion with plant nutrients, designed to reduce wrinkles, oxygenate and refresh the skin. The fishy treatment is said to be particularly good for treating sensitive and oily skin. Grand Millennium Dubai (04 429 9999). Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs220 for 30min back massage to Dhs370 for 1hr Swedish massage Lime Spa:'Give us your sore, your tired, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free so that we may rub, soothe, soak, heal, treat, pamper and otherwise restore to a blissful state,' states Lime Spa's website. Sounds tempting. With rooms that offer views of rolling green polo fields, taking you far away from the arid surrounds of the desert and aromatherapy to promote wellbeing in body and mind, it's a great place to truly escape for a day. It's also home to the Xpress manicure and pedicure if you're just in need of an in-and-out treatment. Desert Palm (04 323 8888). Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs80 for eyebrow shaping to Dhs1,200 for 150min jewel realm treatment Man Age Luxury Men's Spa: This is a stylish retreat to rejuvenate and relax. Designed specifically to cater to the 'modern man' who wants to be well groomed and look his best at all times, apparently, the spa offers hair care and grooming services, facials and body care, massage rituals, Moroccan baths and mani/pedi treatments. Oh, and nose waxing for those nostril ticklers (ouch). Jumeirah Beach Walk (04 435 5780). Open daily 10am-10pm. Price range: Dhs20 for nose or cheek waxing to Dhs450 for one-hour microdermal renewal treatment. Men only. Other locations: Arjaan Dubai, Dubai Media City (04 437 0868); Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi (02 681 8837) Mandara Spa: No.1 treatments at No.1 Sheikh Zayed Road, the Monarch's spa also features a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and ladies' hair salon. The signature Mandara massage involves two therapists working together in a unique blend of styles and there are also 'crystal harmony' and ayurvedic treatments to try. Monarch Hotel (04 329 8888; www.themandaraspa.com). Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs365 for 50min body massage to Dhs1,830 for aromatherapy package Natural Elements: A practical, pleasant and modern spa that offers a good selection of day packages designed for general revitalisation, wellness or mothers to be. The spa features seven treatment rooms and two wet areas, plus a Pedi Spa – a great idea for a country where flip-flops are mandatory. The venue offers a wide range of services – around 50, in fact. The hot stone massage is a particular speciality. Le Méridien Dubai, Garhoud (04 702 2550; www.dubai.lemeridien.com). Open daily 8am-10pm. Dhs25 for eyebrow threading to Dhs1,850 for 2hr30min speciality facial and body wrap with hydrotherapy Natural Healing Wellness Spa: Just one step into this spa and you will be pulled back to ancient times. With its unique decor that blends tranquility with Chinese history, the Natural Healing Wellness Spa promises to be the perfect treat for the body and mind. A wide variety of luxurious treatments are available for men and women. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah (04 348 3896). Open daily 10am-10.30pm. Price range: Dhs180 for a back massage, to Dhs1,850 for package treatments Nivea Haus: You may feel in desperate need of a pampering session after navigating the monstrous Dubai Mall. From simple manicures to more elaborate facials, you can choose what takes your fancy from the Nivea product offerings. We would recommend a neck and shoulder massage – after all, you're likely to have been carrying masses of shopping bags all day. Dubai Mall (04 434 0777). Open daily 10am-10pm. Beauty treatments are in a private cabin. Price range: Dhs30 for eyebrow shape to Dhs650 for two-hour Nivea beauty pampering package One&Only Spa: Go on a relaxing journey to restore and rejuvenate your body and mind in the Only&Only Spa, offering a wide variety of luxurious treatments, including an exclusive pedicure developed by world-renowned foot expert Bastien Gonzalez. Be sure to try its hammam, too, with prices starting at Dhs255 for an Oriental back massage: the spacious and aromatic facility features low lighting and heated marble massage tables, plus two steam rooms and two private massage rooms. At the end of your scrub down you'll be polished, buffed and glowing. A must-do for any resident or visitor. One&Only Royal Mirage Hotel (04 399 9999; www.oneandonlyroyalmirage.com). Open daily 9.30am-9pm (ladies only 9.30am-1pm). Price range: Dhs215 for a body scrub, to Dhs725 for an age-defying facial Raffles Amrita Spa: Raffles Dubai has impressed us on many fronts, and the spa is likewise something to get excited about. The Raffles Amrita, one of the grandest spas in the city, is a haven for relaxation. It features six private suites, a VIP room, and a private sanctuary in the hotel's impressive botanical gardens for the spa's signature treatments. If hanging out with your other half is the order of the day, give the 'Romantic Retreat Package' a go, which features a dip in a candlelit bath. Ladies will also love 'Her Royal Highness' facial – the ultimate in anti-ageing. There's also a hair salon and a gorgeous outdoor pool to make use of. Raffles Dubai (04 314 9869; www.dubai.raffles.com). Open daily 9am-8pm. Price range: Dhs49 for facial waxing to Dhs1,949 for six-hour package Retreat Health & Spa: The Retreat is an intimate affair, with separate areas for men and women. It forms just one of the hotel's pampering facilities, with N.Bar for nails and 1847 – dedicated to male grooming – located on the same floor. If you like Swedish massages, the ones administered by the staff at the Retreat come highly recommended. Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina (04 317 6762; www.lemeridien.com). Open daily 9.15am-9.30pm. Price range: Dhs70 for eyebrow tinting to Dhs4,165 for zero cellulite course The Ritz-Carlton Spa: One of Dubai's most gorgeously opulent hotels, you can sign up for a whole host of luxury treatments at the Ritz-Carlton, such as the 'Choco Heaven'. This indulgent therapy starts with a chocolate scrub, followed by a choccie mask, massage and a mug of hot chocolate. Their signature massage with the option of Lilian Terry oils is also a journey to infinity and beyond. We recommend you finish things off with an afternoon tea, this being the Ritz and all. The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, Al Sufouh Road, Jumeirah (04 318 6184; www.ritzcarlton.com). Open daily 9am-8pm. Price range: Dhs250 for 20min rose petal bath to Dhs750 for 1hr45min Javanese Lulu signature body ritual Royal Waters Health Spa: The Royal Waters is a hi-tech spa for women, but it's also less overtly posh than rival hotel-based establishments. Perhaps lacking a little in the glamour department, it nonetheless avoids the formulaic feel of some hotel spas. Treatments available include a full hydrotherapy circuit, massage and slimming therapies. A sauna and steam rooms are here too so you can still spend a few hours luxuriating if you so wish. Al Mamzar Centre, Sharjah Road, Deira (04 297 2053). Open daily 10am-8pm. Price range: Dhs40 for waxing to Dhs400 for tritle facial. Women only Satori Spa: Nestled within the rolling dunes of the desert in an environmentally protected area, the Satori Spa is a part of a weekend getaway like no other. The body harmony service includes an all-over exfoliation before clients are wrapped up in a concoction of frankincense, camomile and rosemary. The spa also offers ear candling and a Satori detox. Bab Al Shams (04 809 6232; www.jumeirahbabalshams.com; email@example.com). Open daily 9am-8pm. Price range: Dhs175 for 30min arm massage to Dhs1,400 for 5hr Satori extravagance SensAsia Urban Spa: An exotic Eastern-style spa, which wouldn't be out of place in downtown New York, for women in Jumeirah. Unique treatments, such as the high-heeler – designed for fans of Jimmy Choo – help to set this lovely spa apart. See p9 for more on the spa. Other location: The Palm Jumeirah (04 422 7115) First floor, The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road (04 349 8850; www.sensasiaspas.com). Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri 12.30pm-9pm. Price range: Dhs65 for think pink foot wrap to Dhs3,780 for package of eight fennel colon cleanse & cellulite therapy sessions. Women only Senso Wellness Centre: If you work in the area, why not pop into Senso to de-stress during your lunch break? The Serenity package seems like a bargain, with a full-body massage, wrap, scrub, facial and mani/pedi for only Dhs600. Radisson Blu Hotel, Media City (04 366 9111). Open Sat-Thu 9am-10.30pm; Fri-11am-10pm. Price range: Dhs300 for one-hour massage to Dhs600 for serenity package The Spa at The Address: All fantastic hotels, all fantastic spas. The Spa(s) at the Address(es) will pamper you like the rich and famous. The Spa at the Address Downtown Dubai is our personal favourite, standing tall and proud in the core of Downtown Burj Khalifa, you have unbeatable views of the Dubai Fountain and the world's tallest tower. With unique beauty and therapeutic treatments inspired by a myriad of cultures from around the world, these spas will help you experience life's gems and get in touch with your inner and outer beauty. The Address, Downtown Dubai (04 436 8751). Open Sat-Tue 9am-9pm; Wed-Fri 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs250 for salt and oil scrub, to Dhs995 for Restore and Rejuvenate signature treatments. Other locations: The Address Dubai Mall (04 438 8888); The Address Dubai Marina (4 4367777) The Spa at Hilton Dubai: The Spa at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah provides top-to-toe therapies using both natural Asian-inspired ingredients and Phytomer products. Situated on the beach, you can show off your glowing skin post-treatment in your bikini, or by the al-fresco pool. There are six treatment rooms in all, one of which is used purely for manicures and pedicures. And something we wholly approve of is the three treatments specifically for men, including the oxygenating facial and the ultimate back treatment. Hilton Dubai Jumeirah (04 318 2405; www.hilton.com). Open daily 10am-9pm. Price range: Dhs60 for eyebrow waxing to Dhs780 for 2hr30min package treatment The Spa at Jebel Ali Hotel: The Spa at Jebel Ali Hotel combines classic traditional treatments and rituals with cutting-edge spa technology. This first-class wellness facility features 10 treatment rooms, a majlis relaxation room, spacious changing rooms, a spa boutique, outdoor treatment area overlooking the beach and an extensive wet area. The hammam scrub room, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and invigorating showers complete the extensive facilities within The Spa. Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa (04 814 5555). Open Sat-Wed 9am-7pm; Thu-Fri 9am-8pm. Price range: Dhs120 for 30min foot massage to Dhs600 for one-hour tri-enzyme facial The Spa at The Palace: The Spa is spread over two floors – one for women, one for men. Facilities include a Vichy shower, an oriental bath house complete with hammam slab, monsoon showers, steam rooms and hydrobaths. If you're in a hurry, opt for The Spa's A La Minute treatment, which lasts 30 minutes – you choose the amount of pressure and tailor the treatment to your area of concern. For a longer and more lavish treatment, try the three-hour king or queen ritual. The Palace, The Old Town (04 428 7888).Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs295 for 45-min body scrub to Dhs495 for the 75min Oriental hammam ritual. The Spa at Shangri-La: Most of the therapies at The Spa Shangri-La are inspired by traditional Asian healing philosophies, with a holistic approach to vitality, fitness and beauty. There are separate facilities for men and women, although it is possible to have treatments for couples. Their milk and honey treatments are particularly decadent, and guaranteed to leave you looking good enough to eat. Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road (04 343 8888; www.shangri-la.com). Open daily 10am-10pm. Price range: Dhs200 for 30min customized tension relaxer to Dhs960 for three-hour gems of wellness treatment. SpaDunya: With a focus on colour therapy, the treatments at SpaDunya are all based on 'holistic vibrational and energetic techniques'. The unique spa consists of treatment suites, a hammam, hydrotherapy suite, a studio, a beauty room and steam room, sauna and showers. It may all sound a bit, well, hippy-ish, but we can personally vouch for the Dorn Method treatment, where a series of gentle exercises and a blissful massage will make you feel reborn. Try it and see. Shams 1, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach residence (04 439 3669; www.spadunyaclub.com; email@example.com). Open daily 8am-8pm. Price range: Dhs35 for eyebrow shaping to Dhs12,809 for a three-month menopause package Spa InterContinental: Spa InterContinental is easily the best spa you'll find in the Festival City area of town. The spa is minimal in design, but the treatments on offer are quite the opposite. To replenish your skin, opt for the soft body peel or the smoothing sugar indulgence. Therapists use the famous Natura Bisse products for the facials, the ultimate of which is the diamond facial, designed to stimulate, restructure and protect the skin, getting you ready to go back to the desert or the air con of the mall. InterContinental Dubai Festival City (04 701 1111; www.intercontinental.com). Open daily 8am-10pm. Price range: Dhs95 for eyebrow waxing to Dhs1,900 for 3hr pure indulgence package Taj Spa: At this surprisingly opulent hotel there are many different styles of treatment available at the spa, although ayurvedic is arguably the most popular – the 6,000-year-old holistic therapy teaches individuals about shaping their lives and health by understanding and addressing their body type. As a result, all treatments and massages are tailored to each specific guest. Facials and a range of other acts of delightful pampering are also available. As well as the separate saunas and steam rooms, this spa features a swimming pool and the obligatory Jacuzzi. Taj Palace Hotel, off Al Rigga Road, Deira (04 223 2222; www.tajhotels.com). Open daily 7am-10pm. Price range: Dhs350 for 1hr full-body massage to Dhs500 for 90min majestic facial Talise Spa: Guests at the resort can arrive at this sensational venue courtesy of an abra. Highly qualified therapists specialise in a long list of stand-out treatments, such as reiki and ayurveda. Signature treatments include the Talise Absolution, which lasts for a blissful 110 minutes; two therapists treat you in unison and it includes a hair mud mask for top-to-toe luxury. Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah (04 366 6818; www.madinatjumeirah.com). Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs195 for 20min Talise energiser massage to Dhs2,195 for 5hr Talise exceptional ritual Thai Privilege Spa: Ladies, ladies, ladies! This spa was made just for you (gentlemen, you have no business here). This world-class spa chain is dedicated to giving you traditional Thai treatments. The staff hail from Thailand and they are all female and friendly. The spa has a beautifully tranquil lobby (with the all-important slippers and ginger tea supplied). We recommend the soothing reflexology on offer here. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah (04 348 9679). Open daily 10am-10pm. Price range: Dhs125 for 'pampering hands' treatment, to Dhs600 for 90min detoxifying session Timeless Spa: Timeless Spa at the Harbour Hotel offers a fusion of healing practises from around the world using natural and indigenous products. This is one of Time Out's favourite spas after having become so relaxed from the Swedish massage and a toasty face and foot pack, we drifted off to the land of nod. The Harbour Hotel and Residence, Dubai Marina (04 319 4000). Open daily 9am-9pm. Price range: Dhs150 for 45min manicure to Dhs950 for two-hour rejuvenation package Tips & Toes: Tips & Toes is conveniently located all over town, stretching from the Greens, Meadows and Springs to Media City, Palm Jumeriah and Arabian Ranches. A fairly priced spa and treatment centre for men and women, they offer facials, waxing, mani/pedis and body massages. Jumeirah Beach Walk (04 429 3477). Open daily 10am-9pm. Price range: Dhs15 for upper lip threading to Dhs7,000 for full body IPL (fat and cellulite reduction) package. Other locations: Arabian Ranches (04 3639944); Springs (04 3619696); Meadows (04 361 9393); Greens (04 361 9797); Media City (04 437 0874); Palm Jumeriah (04 422 0353) Urban Male Lounge: The Urban Male Lounge in DIFC is just the job for busy office types. The idea came from the same people behind NStyle Nail Lounge, which has a very good reputation with Dubai's ladies. The spa offers a wide range of services, including therapeutic massages and shaving, plus hair, hand and foot treatments, but what sets it apart is the design and use of technology (plasma TVs, wireless headphones and Wi-Fi), allowing you to watch the footie as you enjoy your shave or hot stone treatment. DIFC, precinct building two, level two, unit 3 (04 425 0350). Open daily 9am-9pm. Price range: Dhs80 for manicure to Dhs400 for 90min hot stone massage. Men only Willow Stream Spa: Expect high-quality pampering and treatments at this Roman-themed spa, which also houses a sociable indoor Jacuzzi, steam room and two large outdoor swimming pools. The signature treatments are based on aromatherapy and marine elements. There are separate male and female sections, plus seven private treatment and relaxation rooms. You will also find a state-of-the-art health club at the fancy Fairmont. The Fairmont Dubai, ninth floor (04 311 8800; www.fairmont.com). Open daily 10am-10.30pm. Price range: Dhs40 for chin/upper lip waxing to Dhs920 for three-hour ultimate body bliss treatment 1847: One for the gents, 1847 offers a range of high-end services, from shaves and facials, to manicures, pedicures and massages. Or just a good old-fashioned haircut if you're yet to get in touch with your inner metrosexual. One of the highlights is the old school Sweeny Todd-style shave. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Boulevard, Sheikh Zayed Road (04 330 1847). Open daily 9am-10pm. Price range: Dhs65 for waxing to Dhs950 for 90-minute premium facial. Men only. Other locations: Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina (04 399 8989); Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 437 0252) Follow Us SIMILAR ARTICLES Summer 2015 hair styles Dubai hair salons 25 Dubai 5-star hotel spas Spas and gyms in Downtown Dubai