Dubai is nothing if not a city of extremes—a skyline studded with audacious skyscrapers, man-made islands shaped like palm trees, and malls where you can ski indoors. It’s a global capital of ambition and indulgence. But for all the spectacle, there’s a countercurrent of quietude: the city’s burgeoning wellness scene. As we enter 2025, MICHELIN-recommended hotels in Dubai are reimagining luxury as an opportunity for transformation, offering retreats designed to detox the spirit and reset the mind to enter the new year refreshed—much like our new year's resolutions.
From a serene desert oasis to urban sanctuaries where health science meets haute design, Dubai’s wellness offerings are as multifaceted as the city itself. These destinations are more than spa getaways; they’re meticulously crafted experiences that align indulgence with intention to kick off the new year on the right foot.
Here’s a look at some of the most distinctive MICHELIN-listed properties offering wellness programs that bring wellness to the forefront.
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Image credit: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa/Kerzner Group
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
Set against the backdrop of endless dunes, Bab Al Shams feels like a mirage brought to life. Just an hour outside Dubai, this low-slung resort blends seamlessly into the desert landscape with its weathered sandstone architecture and tranquil courtyards. The wellness experience here is rooted in the surroundings—desert-inspired spa treatments incorporate natural ingredients like sand, salt, and desert flora. Morning yoga sessions in the dunes invite stillness, while evenings are best spent under star-lit skies, accompanied by traditional Arabian performances. With just over 100 rooms, Bab Al Shams offers a sense of exclusivity and calm that’s rare in a city known for its high energy.
Image credit: Five Palm Jumeirah/Five Hotels and Resorts
Five Palm Jumeirah
Anchored at the base of the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Five Palm Jumeirah is a modern sanctuary that merges beachside relaxation with wellness. The property’s Ottoman-inspired spa is a centrepiece, featuring expansive hammams, detoxifying treatments, and aromatherapy sessions that draw from centuries-old traditions. Beyond the spa, private beach cabanas offer uninterrupted ocean views for meditative escapes, while the hotel’s holistic fitness programs, including guided sunrise swims and beach yoga, encourage guests to reconnect with their bodies.
Image credit: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray/Jumeirah Group
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Also inspired by the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is a feast for the senses. Its award-winning Talise Ottoman Spa is a world unto itself, featuring one of the largest hammams in the region, complete with marble slabs, ornate mosaics, and steam rooms. Wellness rituals here are immersive, ranging from therapeutic massages to rejuvenating mud baths. The property’s 10 dining outlets serve nutrient-rich menus designed to complement its wellness offerings, while tennis courts, a state-of-the-art gym, and a serene infinity pool round out the experience.ALSO FEATURED IN: Dubai's best beach resorts
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Image credit: Melia Desert Palm/Melia
Meliá Desert Palm Dubai
Trade the city’s towering skyscrapers for lush green polo grounds at Meliá Desert Palm. Located just 20 miles from Dubai’s city center, this boutique hotel feels like a countryside retreat. Its award-winning spa features treatments using Eminence Organics and Kerstin Florian products, with an emphasis on skin rejuvenation and deep relaxation. For the active guest, the property offers horseback riding lessons, tennis, and squash, blending fitness with leisure. The intimate setting, combined with personalised wellness programs, ensures that each guest leaves feeling both refreshed and revitalised.
Image credit: The Lana/Dorchester Collection
The Lana - Dorchester Collection
Urban luxury finds its zen at The Lana. This Dorchester Collection gem seamlessly blends haute design with wellness, offering a Dior-branded spa where signature treatments are paired with state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Yoga classes are held on a serene rooftop, while dining options curated by MICHELIN-starred restaurant chefs Martín Berasategui and Jean Imbert ensure wellness extends to every plate. The Lana is a testament to the idea that urban living and relaxation can coexist beautifully.
Image credit: Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
The Mandarin Oriental Jumeira is an expansive retreat spread over 2,000 square metres of wellness-focused space. Its spa features nine treatment rooms, including hammam-style suites and beachfront VIP lounges. Signature treatments incorporate ancient techniques with modern innovations, such as guided ice-bath therapies for circulation and bespoke fitness plans. Guests can also partake in beachside yoga or meditation classes as part of their wellness journey. The hotel’s culinary offerings emphasize health-conscious dining, using locally sourced ingredients for light yet flavourful meals.MORE ON SPAS: The best spas in London
Image credit: One&Only One Za'abeel/Kerzner
One&Only One Za’abeel
Elevating wellness to a scientific art form, One&Only One Za’abeel’s Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie is a groundbreaking addition to Dubai’s wellness landscape. This three-story facility offers personalised health programs that combine genetic testing, cutting-edge treatments, and tailored fitness plans. Guests can participate in the hotel’s exclusive City Wellness Retreat, a three-night experience designed to improve vitality and balance through curated meals, advanced aesthetic therapies, and stress-management workshops. Situated in the heart of Dubai, One&Only One Za’abeel seamlessly combines innovation with indulgence.Illustration image: Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
