Dubai Massage Tips: What You Need to Know Before Your Next Spa Session

If you’re planning a spa day in Dubai, a few simple tips can turn a good massage into a great one. From what to wear to how much to tip, this guide covers the everyday questions that keep you comfortable and confident.

Dress Code and What to Wear

Most Dubai spas provide a clean gown or wrap, but you’ll feel more at ease if you show up in lightweight, breathable clothes. Men usually wear shorts and a t‑shirt, while women can opt for loose tops and leggings. Avoid tight denim or anything with metal fasteners that might snag during the treatment.

If you’re booked for a Vichy shower, a yoga‑style top and shorts work well. For a Moroccan bath, bring a lightweight robe or towel; you’ll swap it for a traditional wrap once inside the steam room.

Massage Etiquette: Undressing and Touching

People often wonder if they need to strip completely. The short answer: you only undress as much as you’re comfortable with. Therapists use sheets to cover you, so you can keep your underwear on if you prefer. Always ask the therapist what the standard practice is for the specific treatment.

Touching your therapist is a no‑go. Even a friendly pat can be misread, so keep your hands to yourself unless the therapist invites you to help with positioning.

Boundaries and Sensitive Areas

Professional spas in Dubai respect clear boundaries. Areas like the groin, face, or neck may be part of a therapeutic session only if you give explicit consent. If you feel uneasy, speak up immediately – the therapist will adjust or stop the pressure.

Tipping and Gratuities

Tip amounts vary, but a 10‑15% gratuity is common in Dubai. For a 90‑minute session, $20‑$30 is a good rule of thumb. If you’re unsure, ask the front desk what the typical tip range is for the spa you’re visiting.

Remember, tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service, not an obligation. If the therapist went above and beyond, feel free to tip more.

Safety and Health Precautions

Before any massage, let the therapist know about injuries, skin conditions, or recent surgeries. Foot massage, for example, can be risky for people with diabetes, so you might need to skip it or get a specialist’s go‑ahead.

Hot tubs and saunas are great for relaxation, but follow the spa’s hygiene rules – rinse off before entering, keep hair up, and avoid bringing food or drinks inside the pool area.

Special Situations

Couples wondering whether to talk during a shared massage should keep conversation low and respectful. The focus is on relaxation, so whispering works better than loud chatter.

Men giving massages to women is perfectly fine as long as both parties agree on the level of comfort and professionalism. In Dubai’s multicultural environment, cultural sensitivities matter, so a quick chat about expectations helps avoid awkward moments.

By keeping these practical tips in mind, you’ll walk into any Dubai spa feeling prepared and at ease. Enjoy the soothing atmosphere, let the therapist do the work, and leave feeling refreshed.