As someone who’s usually quite skeptical of the holistic healing multiverse, it sure does take a lot for a wellness retreat to leave a lasting impact on me. So when I found myself basking in the Maldives-esque coast of Northern Qatar, answering to a health practitioner who could tell I was on my period just by feeling my pulse, I was happy to be proven wrong.
The face of wellness in Qatar is changing. The country’s National Vision 2030 strives to inspire positive change through its emphasis on health, sustainability, and traditional wisdom. One of the country’s most anticipated hotel openings, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, succeeds at just that. And then some.
If you don’t know Zulal, get to know. The resort is the regional branch of the world renowned wellness retreat based in Thailand, Chiva Som. And any wellness buff will tell you – that’s a pretty big deal. But its USP lies in its embrace of Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) as its core philosophy, merging ancient Arabic healing traditions with cutting-edge wellness therapies. It is, in fact, the first wellness destination in the Middle East to do so. Prepare to send that OOO note.
Wellness with an Arabic Twist
As far as luxury wellness retreats go, this one is pretty elite. Tucked away on a secluded stretch of Qatar’s northern coastline, about 90 minutes from Doha, Zulal Wellness Resort surprisingly stays true to its cultural and geographical heritage. Its terracotta-hued buildings and traditional courtyards evoke the essence of a Qatari village. The resort’s name, translating to ‘purified water,’ is reflected in the geometric pools inspired by medieval Islamic astrology that weave through the 280,000-square-meter estate. Aside from the surrounding crystal blue waters resembling the Maldives (I was deffo not mad about that), Zulal is authentically Qatari at its core.
Zulal’s sprawling complex is divided into two distinct areas: Zulal Discovery, designed for families, and the adults-only Zulal Serenity. Amidst lush gardens and herbal groves, this desert resort offers light-filled rooms, suites, and waterfront villas, each designed to provide a zen space for guests to immerse themselves in their wellness journeys. On-site activities range from yoga and floating meditation to marine eco-trails and stargazing sessions.
And wellness takes true form in the resort’s dining scene. A fusion of Arabic and international cuisine, even the most ardent junk food enthusiasts will find themselves converted by the resort’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free offerings, which are as tasty as they are nutritious.
What is Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM)?
I’m sure I’m not the only one to find wellness screenings a bit woo-woo sometimes. Practitioners often share vague health advice and assumptions, all with the underlying message of ‘eat better, sleep better’. And sure, that might be advice I actually do need to take from time to time, but when you’re paying a pretty penny for a retreat of high caliber, you’re hoping for something a little bit more nuanced. Luckily, my experience with Zulal’s genomic testing program was nothing short of insightful.
By analyzing your genetic makeup, the resort’s experts craft a bespoke wellness plan that optimizes your health during your stay and beyond. Uniquely to Zulal, this is done according to the principles of Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM). This holistic approach considers your unique temperament—hot, dry, cold, or wet—to tailor health and nutrition plans just for you. The resort’s expert team includes physiotherapists, dermatologists, and specialists in Thai and Ayurvedic treatments, all working in unison to create personalized wellness experiences.
Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) is a holistic health system rooted in the ancient medical practices of the Middle East, influenced significantly by the works of early Islamic scholars and ancient Greek physicians. So in the wellness world, it’s all about balance. Tailored treatments aim to harmonize the body’s humors—hot, cold, dry, and wet—thereby restoring balance and promoting overall wellness. TAIM also integrates aspects of lifestyle counseling, spiritual healing, and the therapeutic use of water, making it a versatile and culturally rich component of modern wellness programs.
And as per the Zulal promise, I left with a notebook full of tangible tips, and a camera roll full of Insta-worthy pics. Consider me a holistic wellness convert.
It sure seems like Qatar is earning its place as a crucial stop on your wellness journey, and Zulal is without a doubt spearheading the movement. Book your stay here.
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