Retreat to Tranquility

Finding Serenity in the Sands: A Retreat at Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som

There’s plenty of places to unwind at Zulal

Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Arabian Gulf, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som offers a serene, other-worldly escape, where nature and well-being harmoniously come together. Located just an hour north of Doha, this expansive 280,000 square metre retreat provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city. It’s not just another luxury resort; Zulal is pioneering wellness in the Middle East, drawing on the ancient wisdom of Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM) to deliver a transformative experience for mind, body and soul.

From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in Zulal’s holistic philosophy. Greeted with the traditional Arabic tea ritual—a refreshing blend of green tea infused with fruit—we were then introduced to the House of Wisdom, the resort’s eclectic library filled with books on psychology, philosophy, art, and travel. The invitation to borrow a book reflected the resort’s commitment to both mental and physical well-being. We eagerly chose Matthew Syed’s Rebel Ideas, setting the tone for a journey of personal insight. 

The resort is split into two areas - one for families (Discovery) and one for adults (Serenity)

Zulal is thoughtfully divided into two distinct sections. Discovery is designed for families, while Serenity offers a tranquil, adults-only escape.

Our Serenity Junior Suite was a fine example of understated elegance. With natural tones and decor inspired by the waves of the nearby sea, the suite offered a spacious open-plan layout and a private outdoor plunge pool—our go-to spot between treatments. The suite embodied everything Zulal promises: serenity, simplicity and relaxation.

Our experience was tailored from the start with a personalised wellness consultation. Zulal offers over 400 treatments and activities, all designed to promote well-being. As our stay aligned with Ramadan, this was an opportunity for us to reset, with a focus on fitness, healthy eating, and a break from alcohol.

At the heart of Zulal’s philosophy TAIM is an approach that merges ancient healing practices with modern wellness techniques. Guided by doctors Brenda and Aashley, our schedule was carefully curated to balance fitness and relaxation. Personal trainer Wahid challenged us just beyond our comfort zone, while stretching sessions with Mahmoud provided much-needed relief for sore muscles. Each treatment and activity felt perfectly aligned with our goal of restoring both body and mind.

Zulal’s atmosphere invites guests to unplug from daily life. We were encouraged to leave our devices behind, and with the resort’s breathtaking natural surroundings, it was easy to embrace this digital detox. The resort’s signature white pyjamas and turquoise flip-flops, provided in every room, added to the sense of tranquillity as guests quietly moved through the property.

Spring’s mild temperatures, hovering in the low 30s, allowed for enjoyable outdoor activities. For those craving cooler air, the Arctic Room provided a refreshing blast of cold, offering a delightful contrast to the warm Qatari desert heat.

The spa’s variety of thermal experiences, from steam rooms to hydrotherapy pools, was one of the highlights of our stay. A particular favourite was the Himalayan Salt Room, where heated ceramic-tiled beds and purifying salt air made for a deeply relaxing experience.

Dining at Zulal was as much a part of the wellness journey as the treatments. The resort’s philosophy of balanced nutrition was evident in every meal, with portion-controlled dishes that were as delicious as they were health-conscious. Whether we dined at Al Sidr for Asian fusion or Malbu for Mediterranean seafood under the stars, each dish was artfully presented and full of flavour.

At Aizoon, the all-day dining restaurant, every meal felt special. Even the bread—spirulina, charcoal, and turmeric —was a delight. The dry policy at Zulal was liberating, and inventive mocktails ensured we never missed a traditional cocktail.

Zulal is a sanctuary for those seeking holistic wellness in a breathtaking natural setting. It’s not simply a retreat—it’s a transformative experience that lingers long after you leave. For those familiar with Thailand’s Chiva-Som resort, it’s worth noting that Zulal stands on its own with a distinctly unique offer. While Chiva-Som enjoys a beachfront location in Hua Hin with nearby amenities and much-celebrated Thai hospitality, Zulal’s desert-like oasis has a more private atmosphere offering a distinct appeal that is poised to become a top destination for wellness seekers in the region.

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