Christine Philip in front of Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi
Arabian Opulence Defined
Truly epitomizing royal Arabia, from chef masterclasses, to Moroccan hammams, I’m going to give you the DL on why you should visit this seven-star luxury resort in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
The Palace itself is decked out in silver, gold, marble and glass mosaics. There are 114 domes – including the Grand Atrium which is higher than the dome of St.Peter’s Basilica in Rome. There are only about 200 fountains- typical of what I assume a 7-star luxury palace would have- and best of all, this Palace is situated on a private beach surrounded by lush garden landscapes. I personally liked walking through the little Arabian courtyards (which are not so little), and discovering the posh boutiques and café’s throughout the Palace. Each suite contains at least three rooms and a 61″ plasma screen- in fact the simplest suite is called Palace Suite. All in all, whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, this palace offers superior luxury coupled with comfort.
Welcome Tea at The Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi
Now, let’s get to the best part- the Hammam menu at the Palace Spa
The Moroccan Hammam
It begins with immersing the body with the traditional black olive soap and steam to allow the eucalyptus aroma to clear your senses. A vigorous body exfoliation using the Kassa mitt follows to reveal a healthy glow to the skin. The final touch is a delicately scented oil water which is applied to the body to seal in your skins newfound softness. Need I say more?
The Palace Rose Hammam
A luxurious treatment blending the traditional hammam with a sensual touch of rose. Your body is softened by the touch of Rose Ghassoul Clay and Rose Shea Butter to brighten and nourish you skin.
You will also experience an ice cave after your hammam treatment to cool the body down and to increase toxin elimination.
The Mystic Moroccan Hammam
Indulge in a luxurious traditional Hammam with a touch of opulence. The treatment begins with a gold eucalyptus soap and steam body cleanse, then they exfoliate the body using the traditional kassa glove that follows with a precious clay body wrap to hydrate and regenerate the skin. The ritual ends in a comfortable treatment room with a relaxing massage using Amra’senergising diamond oil, followed by a mini facial and Argan oil hair treatment.
The Royal Couple’s Hammam
Immerse your bodies as they begin with the traditional black olive soap cleanse, kassa exfoliation and the precious ghassoul body wrap. We finish this couple’s journey with a rich Shea Butter application to hydrate and protect the skin. The experience also incorporates the ice cave and Jacuzzi for additional bliss.
The All-Girls Hammam
You and your girls will be treated to the Palace Rose Hammam with added time to spend together with access to the ice cave and Jacuzzi. Traditionally dubbed as “The Wedding Hammam”, but who needs an excuse to have a wedding when you can include this spa treatment in your all-girls weekend? Complete with fruit platters, fruit juices and Moroccan sweets, their Hammam can accommodate up to 4 people. Henna can also be arranged- what a great touch!
Ah decisions, decisions. You really can’t go wrong with either one of the above.
