What to Wear in a Sauna: What’s Really Expected at Dubai Spas
When you step into a sauna, a heated room designed for relaxation and detoxification through dry or moist heat. Also known as a steam room, it’s a core part of many spa rituals in Dubai, from traditional hammams to modern wellness centers. But here’s the question everyone asks: What to wear in a sauna? The answer isn’t as simple as grabbing your swimsuit and walking in. It depends on the spa, the culture, and what you’re actually trying to get out of the experience.
Most high-end spas in Dubai, including places like Blue Star Arabic Spa, expect you to go in naked—yes, completely. Not because it’s about exposure, but because clothing interferes with sweating, which is the whole point. Towels are provided, and you wrap them around yourself when you step out. You’ll see locals and regulars doing it too. If you’re uncomfortable, you can bring a small towel to sit on or drape over your lap, but wearing a swimsuit, underwear, or workout gear is usually discouraged. Why? Fabric traps heat, blocks sweat, and can irritate your skin when it’s hot and damp. Plus, most spas have strict hygiene rules—no street clothes allowed in the sauna zone.
There’s a difference between a sauna, a dry heat environment typically between 70°C and 100°C and a steam room, a humid, lower-temperature space around 40°C to 50°C. In a steam room, some people wear light cotton robes or swimwear because the moisture clings to fabric. But in a dry sauna? That’s a different story. The heat is intense, and your skin needs to breathe. Even a thin cotton towel can become a barrier. If you’re new to this, start slow—sit on the lower bench, keep your towel handy, and let your body adjust. You’ll notice the difference in how your skin feels afterward.
What you wear—or don’t wear—isn’t just about comfort. It’s about respect. Dubai’s spa culture blends global wellness trends with local privacy norms. Most facilities have gender-separated areas, and therapists never enter the sauna unless you call for them. Your modesty is protected by design. If you’re still unsure, ask at reception. Most places will give you a quick rundown: "Just bring a towel, leave everything else at the locker." No judgment, no pressure.
And if you’re thinking about bringing a robe or flip-flops into the sauna? Don’t. Those are for the changing area and the walk between rooms. The sauna is for heat, sweat, and stillness. Leave the accessories behind. The real benefit comes when your skin is bare, your mind is quiet, and the heat does its work.
Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve been there—what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid the common mistakes that ruin the experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular at Dubai’s best spas, these posts cut through the noise and give you exactly what you need to know.
