The Middle East is experiencing a transformative shift in its wellness landscape, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with modern innovations. From the historic streets of Beirut to the serene deserts of Qatar and the dynamic metropolis of Dubai, the region is emerging as a premier destination for holistic well-being. This evolution is marked by the rise of both international luxury retreats and home grown wellness centres, each offering unique experiences that cater to a diverse clientele.
Origin Circle: Revolutionizing Wellness in Beirut
In the heart of Beirut’s vibrant Gemmayzeh district, Origin Circle stands as a testament to Lebanon’s evolving wellness scene. Founded by lifelong friends Farah Dagher and Michelle Chammas, the studio was born from their shared vision to create a holistic space that integrates fitness, recovery, and community. Their inspiration stemmed from years spent in New York, where they immersed themselves in the city’s dynamic wellness culture. Upon returning to Lebanon, they identified a gap in the market and sought to introduce a concept that seamlessly merges movement and mindfulness.
Origin Circle offers a diverse range of boutique fitness classes, including Lagree on state-of-the-art Megaformer and Microformer machines, as well as infrared-heated yoga and Pilates sessions. These classes are designed to enhance physical performance and promote relaxation. Complementing the fitness offerings are advanced recovery treatments such as cold plunges, infrared saunas, pressotherapy, and therapeutic massages. The services reflect the studio’s commitment to comprehensive well-being.
Beyond its physical offerings, Origin Circle places a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of community. The space features a lush outdoor garden, a rooftop lounge, and communal areas that encourage members to connect, relax, and grow together. By hosting events, workshops, and collaborations with local brands and wellness providers, Origin Circle has become a hub for engagement and the exchange of knowledge, revolutionizing the concept of wellness in Beirut.
Our Habitas Ras Abrouq: Qatar’s Coastal Retreat
Qatar’s Our Habitas Ras Abrouq, located at the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, offers a luxury retreat where the desert meets the sea. Just an hour’s drive from Doha, this sanctuary provides transformative well-being experiences inspired by Qatar’s rich heritage.
Guests can unwind in 42 spacious villas, each featuring a large outdoor deck, private plunge pool, outdoor showers, and modern amenities, with views of the Arabian Gulf. The villa decor incorporates earthy tones and natural textures, reflecting the serene desert environment. The resort’s dining destination, Qissa, focuses on nourishing the body with wholesome, ethically sourced seasonal produce cooked over an open coal and wood fire grill. Helmed by Chef Vincente Vidal, Qissa presents an elevated take on the classic BBQ with signature dishes including roasted lamb, smoky grilled prawns, and tender beef skewers.
Just steps away from the sea, the Beach Club offers fresh beverages, family-style bites, and interactive mixology workshops, all with breath-taking coastal views. A haven for self-care, Our Habitas Ras Abrouq offers wellness experiences designed to encourage inner peace and restoration. Guests can participate in daily yoga, desert meditation, breath work, and sound healing sessions, fostering mindfulness and emotional well-being.
The resort’s state-of-the-art wellness centre features a fully equipped gym and longevity-focused amenities to support holistic health. From gentle sunrise stretches to immersive healing practices under the stars, every element of the retreat is crafted to promote balance and rejuvenation. Rooted in Qatari heritage, the resort offers cultural experiences such as sadu weaving workshops and calligraphy classes.
Visitors can explore the region’s waters with stand-up paddle boarding, glass-bottom kayaking, and kite surfing, discovering the Arabian Sea’s diverse marine life. For fitness enthusiasts, padel tennis courts provide an active yet social way to unwind. Located approximately 1km from Richard Serra’s iconic sculpture, East-West/West-East, guests can visit this landmark and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding white dunes with offsite tours and excursions. The resort also features a stainless steel sculpture by artist Khalid Shahin.
Our Habitas has partnered with Atlas Bookstore, founded by Qatari sisters Fatma and Reem Al Sehlawi, on cultural advisory, with Studio Imara contributing to specific design elements and interiors of the resort. More than a luxury getaway, Our Habitas Ras Abrouq is a sanctuary for self-discovery, connection, and personal renewal. Whether seeking stillness through meditation, adventure in nature, or deep cultural immersion, this retreat provides an unparalleled space to slow down, reflect, and embrace holistic well-being.
Six Senses Southern Dunes: Saudi Arabia’s Desert Oasis
Nestled amidst the undulating dunes of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline, Six Senses Southern Dunes emerges as a sanctuary where luxury intertwines with holistic well-being. This newly unveiled resort offers an immersive experience that harmoniously blends the rich tapestry of Bedouin heritage with contemporary wellness practices. At the heart of this desert oasis lies the expansive Six Senses Spa, a 3,974-square-metre haven designed to mirror the natural beauty of its surroundings.
The spa’s architecture draws inspiration from the sweeping dunes, with honeycomb-patterned walls guiding guests through a journey of rejuvenation. Spanning two floors, the upper level houses a state-of-the-art fitness centre, complete with a spin studio and yoga suite that offer panoramic views of the golden landscape. The lower level is dedicated to transformative therapies, featuring six treatment rooms, a meditation dome, and a holistic anti-aging centre. Here, traditional healing rituals are seamlessly integrated with cutting-edge wellness technologies, providing a bespoke experience tailored to each guest’s needs. Culinary wellness is a cornerstone of the resort’s philosophy and dining venues emphasize the use of freshly grown, locally sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that nourish both body and soul.
Guests can partake in cooking classes, learning to recreate wholesome recipes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. Beyond the spa and dining experiences, Six Senses Southern Dunes offers a plethora of activities designed to foster a deep connection with the environment and oneself. From stargazing sessions under the unpolluted desert sky to guided hikes that explore the geological wonders of the area, each experience is curated to promote mindfulness and inner peace. The resort’s commitment to sustainability further enhances its wellness offerings, with eco-friendly practices ensuring that guests can rejuvenate in harmony with nature.
In essence, Six Senses Southern Dunes is a holistic journey that invites guests to rediscover themselves amidst the serene beauty of the Saudi desert. By weaving together traditional cultural elements with modern wellness innovations, the resort crafts an unparalleled experience that rejuvenates the mind, body, and spirit.
Ekaya Wellness Studio: A Holistic Haven in Dubai
In Dubai’s bustling Arjan neighbourhood, Ekaya Wellness Studio emerges as a beacon for those seeking a comprehensive approach to health and well-being. Founded by sisters Chandini and Chanchal Guria, both skilled yoga and Pilates instructors, Ekaya offers a diverse range of classes tailored to accommodate all fitness levels. The studio’s design emphasizes comfort and tranquillity, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages members to prioritize their health while fostering genuine connections.
Beyond its physical offerings, Ekaya serves as a community hub, regularly hosting interactive events such as Matcha Mornings, which combine Reformer Pilates sessions with social gatherings over matcha beverages. Other events include ice baths, social walk clubs, and art workshops, all designed to encourage members to unwind, connect, and explore new wellness experiences. Chandini and Chanchal’s vision extends beyond physical fitness; they aim to create a space where individuals can engage, relax, and share experiences with like-minded people. In a city that’s constantly on the move, Ekaya stands out as a sanctuary for holistic well-being, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
As the Middle East continues to redefine its wellness landscape, these centres exemplify the region’s commitment to integrating tradition with modernity. By offering unique experiences that promote health, community, and cultural appreciation, they’re showing how our region can contribute to the global wellness narrative.
For more stories of regional getaways, visit our CHECK-IN section and follow our Instagram.
