While Dubai may not be considered one of the world's top spa retreats, the number of luxury spas occupying the city has impressed visitors over the years. Dubai offers some of the most decadent and exclusive spa treatments known to man, and a spa getaway in this emirate can be an invigorating experience for holidaymakers who appreciate a blend of ancient and contemporary spa rituals. Here are some tips to help spagoers make the most of their spa days in the desert capital.

Image via Anantara Downtown Dubai

When heading to an exotic spa retreat hotspot such as Dubai, the first course of action is deciding what areas of one's beauty, health and wellness requires some tender love and care. Although there's nothing wrong with picking spa treatments off a menu, choosing healing sessions that will address core beauty and health issues will have a more lasting impact on one's mental and physical wellbeing. Holidaymakers who are experiencing burnout or fatigue may want to immerse themselves in rejuvenating baths and aromatherapy sessions while those struggling with aches and pains may want to choose herbal oil massages and similar pain relieving and circulation improving modalities.

Spas in Dubai, like in most major cities, are classified into three types based on their purpose. Understanding these types can help vacationers choose the one that suits their needs. Destination spas are immersive and all-inclusive, where healthy meal plans, classes, activities, and spa services are all part of the package. These spas offer comprehensive and intense experiences, even including yoga workouts. Resort-based spas, on the other hand, are perfect for individuals seeking more flexibility in the treatments they want to sign up for. Day spas are ideal for those who want a quick stopover after a shopping spree or a camel ride in the desert.

The popularity of Dubai's top spas means that one cannot afford to wait until the last minute to book spa treatments. It's best to call or make an online reservation at least a day or two in advance so there's no need to fret about a particular time slot being available at a coveted resort spa.

Tourists based at Anantara Downtown Dubai or any similar resorts will find that the every luxury spa in Dubai offers its own signature spa therapies. Ranging from 24-carat gold facials to traditional Turkish baths, the choices are seemingly endless when it comes to special treatments that are only accessible at one spa venue. While most of these healing experiences are not necessarily budget-friendly, the decadent spa sessions can be a great way to reward oneself during a getaway in Dubai or a meaningful gift for a loved one who happens to be part of one's travel group.

Dubai spas require patrons to arrive at least a few minutes before their treatment sessions are scheduled to begin and these pre-treatment minutes are often a great way to start a spa day. Snacks and beverages are served to spagoers who will need to fill out a form detailing any relevant medical information or allergies they may have. It's also important to mention what topical or ingested medications one may have taken that day as it can inform the spa products and techniques used during treatments.

It's also crucial for those heading into Dubai spas to be candid about their needs and preferences, especially when using sauna facilities or any treatments that include hot or cold air. Spas in Dubai are very attentive to the needs of their clients and complaints and requests will be accommodated more often than not.