9 Wellness Women's Retreats in Dubai

Struggling to balance a healthy lifestyle with that never-ending to-do list?

We asked 9 women at the top of their wellness game to share their morning rituals and where they go for a moment of calm in Dubai.

Dr. Saliha Afridi

What is your typical morning routine?

I wake up around 5 am, have my coffee, go for an outdoor walk, and then head to the gym for a workout.

Once I'm done at the gym, I get ready for the day while listening to part of a podcast or a lecture.

The first thing I do when I'm ready is sit down and do some writing. It could be an article I'm working on, Instagram content, or journaling.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

My favorite place to unwind is Kite Beach. Walking on the beach is calming and grounding, whether it's quiet and I'm alone, or it's bustling and I feel a sense of community.

Dina Ghandour

What is your typical morning routine?

My morning routine is quite simple. The first thing I do when I wake up is say a little prayer or affirmation in gratitude for what I have.

Then, I sit for 20-30 minutes in meditation. My skincare routine consists of a water rinse followed by applying natural face oil.

If I have time, I add some face yoga or face massage. I love using the rose face oil by local herbalists Hikma. My non-negotiable in the morning, probably more than meditation, is my matcha latte (ha!).

I love to have the one at Nette before or after teaching my yoga class at Matcha Club.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

Before 'secret beach' in Al Sufouh closed, it was my go-to spot for calm, grounding, and healing.

I spent a lot of time there walking in the mornings or watching sunsets in the evening; it had really special energy.

When the weather is nice, I try to get out into the desert with friends, or sit at Hapi's garden in Al Khazzan Park.

Most days, however, the best spot is really in the sanctuary of our bungalow with my pup and a cup of tea.

Adrienne Everett

What is your typical morning routine?

When I wake up, I start my day with a gentle yoga flow and light meditation to set a positive tone.

I spend a few minutes journaling, capturing my thoughts and goals for the day.

My typical breakfast includes green tea, a smoothie, and occasionally avocado toast with mushrooms and cayenne pepper.

As I get dressed, I dance to my favorite track, letting the music energize me.

I finish my morning routine with a refreshing skincare regimen and take a moment of mindfulness to express gratitude for the beauty of life and my journey.

I typically then head to my yoga studio, HWH at the Burj Al Arab, for a client session or to treat myself to a session with one of the amazing instructors.

While my routine shifts day to day, I recognize the importance of creating space for self-care each morning.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

To find a moment of calm in Dubai, I often visit Kite Beach. This beach offers stunning views of the gulf and a peaceful ambiance perfect for unwinding.

Whether it's taking a leisurely walk along the shore, or grabbing an Açaí smoothie at my favorite café, Feels, Kite Beach is my go-to for relaxation and tranquility amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Elle Sawyer

What is your typical morning routine?

Since having kids, my morning routine has changed. However, the good thing about having an early riser is that she wakes me up at 5:45 am to seize the day.

As a family, especially in cooler weather, we go down to Kite Beach/Sunset Beach most mornings and take a 5k walk with a coffee in hand.

It's our time to talk all things POSTURE, our babies, and if I'm lucky, plan a vacation or the months ahead.

I really enjoy doing this in the cooler months when I wasn't as heavily pregnant, not so much now!

Then we return home, I head off to POSTURE, and if I can join a class, I will. If not, hanging out with my team at the studio really serves me.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

To switch off, it has to be the beach for me, either super early or at sunset; both times feel calm and completely relax my nervous system.

I find the beach at the Jumeirah Hotel particularly grounding. There's just something about that long strip of beach looking onto the Burj Al Arab that helps me manifest and connect inward.

It makes me feel so grateful to call Dubai home. I manifest everything in life and make sure to be in the right environment to do so, knowing that it works!

Helena Hijazi

What is your typical morning routine?

My mornings start with prayers, followed by dropping off the kids at school.

If the weather's pleasant, I either grab a coffee or go for a walk outdoors.

Then it's off to the gym for a workout, ending with a healthy breakfast—usually a protein shake or eggs on sourdough toast.

Recently, I've also begun journaling in the mornings, inspired by a recent event with Leana Deeb.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

To unwind in Dubai, I keep active. For fresh air, I take early morning walks at Kite Beach.

Indoors, I enjoy a Reformer Pilates class at FitnGlam in Dubai Hills—it's perfect for staying active and reducing stress.

Afterward, I treat myself to a shake from Protein House; it's my favorite post-workout indulgence.

Natassia D’Souza

What is your typical morning routine?

My day begins at 5 am with a peaceful five-minute meditation, setting a mindful tone for the day.

Energized by a cold glass of electrolytes, I head to the gym to kickstart my workout, ensuring I meet my 10,000 steps goal.

After a refreshing shower, I enjoy a breakfast staple—protein oats with creamy peanut butter—fueling me for the day ahead.

This routine not only energizes me but also grounds me, preparing me to face the day with a positive mindset.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

When I need tranquility in Dubai, my go-to spot is a charming cafe called Bohox. Located in Downtown, Bohox offers a cozy ambiance that I love, making it the perfect place to unwind and tap into my creativity.

Their matcha latte and wheatgrass eggplant benedict are my favorites, always delighting my taste buds.

Often, I work from Bohox, surrounded by positive vibes and inspiring decor, making it an ideal retreat for both relaxation and productivity.

Amanda Rushforth

What is your typical morning routine?

In a fast-paced city like Dubai, my favorite way to start the day is with a morning walk on the beach with my son, often including a little run.

A fresh juice and some vitamin sea are perfect when the weather is cool. We wake up early, so watching the city come alive around us has become a cherished routine.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

Dubai offers many fantastic ways to connect with nature, albeit a different kind of nature compared to lush greenery.

The ocean is my escape, and I love paddle boarding or wake surfing when I can. A simple daily swim is also a great way to relax.

Whenever I head to the water, I participate in a beach clean-up, giving me some real phone-free time.

Sarah Stoneley

What is your typical morning routine?

Since I often teach in the mornings, my routine is straightforward and efficient.

One thing I never skip is my morning caffeine fix at Vim Coffee in DIFC, which energizes me to push the 1Rebel customers through their paces!

I also ensure I get my workout done in the morning as it positively sets me up for the rest of the day.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

Being outdoors in the sunshine fills me with endorphins. I love visiting Kite Beach, either to run the track or to relax with a book and Oakberry Acai.

Sometimes, I do both. Being around nature calms me, and while I enjoy beach clubs, nothing beats the simplicity of laying a towel on the sand and taking an hour to myself amidst the whirlwind of Dubai life.

Samar Al Salem

What is your typical morning routine?

In the heart of Dubai, my mornings start with Fajr prayers and meditation, setting a serene tone.

I meticulously make my bed and fill my home with purifying scents, creating a tranquil haven. Journaling and reflection follow at 5 am, before a mindful workout at 8 am.

By 10 am, I arrive at my office rejuvenated, having also tended to my hair with Aveda treatments, ensuring a balanced start to my day.

Where do you go to switch off in Dubai?

My ultimate retreat is the tranquil sanctuary of House of Wisdom, where peace, inspiration, and calm envelop me amidst its iconic architecture.

Here, I find rejuvenation for my mind and soul, allowing my thoughts to wander freely.

Additionally, my daily yoga classes at Samadhi provide another cherished escape, grounding me and fostering a deep sense of relaxation.

Source: whatson

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.