When it comes to rest and relaxation , Dubai might not be the first destination that springs to mind , but beyond its ultramodern skyscrapers , luxury shopping and glamorous nightlife , this world-famous city in the United Arab Emirates is quietly gaining recognition as one of the hottest emerging markets for wellness tourism . Of course , the pretty white sand beaches overlooking the Persian Gulf and welcome winter sunshine add the allure . As the demand for health-focused getaways shows no signs of waning , travelers looking for a luxury spa holiday framed by an eye-catching change of scenery will find some of the Middle East ’ s most seductive and sought-after sanctuaries in Dubai . The lineup runs the gamut from a palatial Ottoman-themed sanctuary in the sky ( well , the 18th floor of the legendary six-star hotel , Burj Al Arab ) to a Bedouin-inspired desert retreat where Hammam rituals and Arabian escapes not only restore balance but act as a balm to soothe souls of the most discerning wellness seekers .