TRAVEL TRADE MENA: How has the concept of wellness tourism changed in Dubai in recent times?

SAMIR ARORA: Wellness is one of the fastest growing sectors of the travel industry in the UAE, in fact wellness tourism is projected to grow by more than nine percent by year end, nearly 50 percent faster than overall global tourism.

Wellness and well-being are no longer words only used by a particular niche of individuals, the market is certainly more informed, people are researching how to be a part of the growing trend and are no longer intimidated by it but want to embrace it.

TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Why do you believe there was need for The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery By Sofitel in Dubai?

SAMIR ARORA: Dubai is a fast-paced city – we work hard, lead busy lives and most of us are stressed – we are looking for somewhere to escape to, somewhere we can turn off the noise.

The UAE is leading the way with spa openings, but people are looking for more – a holistic and immersive outlook to complete wellness – The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel provides just that – a first of its kind in the Middle East.

TRAVEL TRADE MENA: What makes The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery By Sofitel stand out as a wellness destination?

SAMIR ARORA: We will introduce the innovative world’s first Rayya Wellness Centre which offers 360 holistic solutions to wellness and well-being.

The centre will house world-renowned experts in their field, working together to provide our in-house guests with retreat packages, from Detox to Reshape to Relax – each is expertly designed for each individual to embark on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation to improve mind, body and spirit.

The centre is very much on offer to non-staying guests also, not everyone needs to take a retreat but can choose a one-off or series of individual treatments; from the more traditional spa methods to medical screenings and nutrition – the resort will also see the first Glenville Nutrition Clinic in the region, specialising principally in women’s health.

TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Please tell us SOFITELmore about your recent partnerships with Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and German Medical Wellness Association.

SAMIR ARORA: We have recently signed memorandums of understanding with both DHA and German Medical Wellness Association – we are delighted to receive such support from local and international properties before we have even opened our doors and it is a true testament to the meticulous planning, detail, hard work, and passion that has gone into building this concept.

These partnerships have helped us and will continue to help us in closing the gaps that were once present for health and wellness tourism, and positioning the UAE as an esteemed wellness destination.

TRAVEL TRADE MENA: Who is your main target market group for such a unique product?

SAMIR ARORA: Our doors are open to anyone who has an interest in well-being – we are not focussing on one particular audience, but rather showcasing to all that wellness is something you can be the master of within our property.

We are here to help and advise to ensure each guest has the very best experience. Before the guest arrives, we send them a very detailed wellness questionnaire that allows us to select, adapt and tailor the best possible Retreat programme for them.

It is an individual’s choice which elements of the retreat they choose to do or not, they are the architects of their own wellness, but we are able to provide an exceptionally detailed level of guidance. Our end goal is to provide lasting wellness solutions to all.