Introduction
Zulal Wellness Resort Discovery by Chiva-Som is one of the most impressive luxury wellbeing retreats in the Middle East, offering a deeply restorative experience rooted in Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM). In our expert travel review, Rebecca shares her personal experience of staying at Zulal - an international wellness retreat in Qatar designed for those seeking stress relief, holistic healing, and long-term wellbeing. Zulal offers immersive, multi-day wellness holidays abroad, where every element - from nutrition to movement - is tailored to support meaningful change.
Zulal is a destination where architecture, landscape and heritage blend to shape a unique wellness retreat: naturally toned, rich in symbolism, and deeply rooted in Qatari culture. Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva Som is located in Khasooma, on Qatar’s northern coast near Al Ruwais — roughly a 1–1½ hour drive from Doha — bordered by the Arabian Gulf and scenic desert dunes. In a very peaceful and tranquil location. Offering separate adult and family experiences—all underpinned by sustainability and holistic healing. For adult-only stays, Zulal Wellness Resort Serenity suites are tucked away in a quiet location surrounding a saltwater lagoon, just a short stroll to the wellness centre and restaurants. Zulal is not a vast sprawling resort, but it is still spread over enough space that you can take a little bike ride around the paths. I did this every day, as it had been years since I had ridden a bike and enjoyed the sea breeze and exercise. The kids club is on the other side of the resort from the wellness centre, so if you are looking for an adult-only stay, the areas are separated from each other if you use the main pool and in some of the restaurants. In addition to the wellness centre, they have a tea house, library, apothecary and small boutique. The design of Zulal is hard to discern from the photos; it is truly incredible.
A special mention to the beautifully designed rooms and comfortable beds.
Food
The food is award-winning, fine dining style wellness cuisine. I hadn’t experienced this level of wellness cuisine before. As a foodie, I was in heaven. I never felt hungry; in fact, I couldn’t always have all of the courses as I was full. Breakfast options were vast, ranging from choices such as eggs, yoghurt, seeds, nuts, gluten-free pastries, to veg juices and a wide selection of teas. They even have their own ‘Zutella’ cacao and nut spread. Lunch and dinner consisted of a starter, usually a salad, a broth, a main of fish or lean meat, desert and a mocktail of the day! The menu shows calories per dish and guidance for those on a detox or weight loss plan. There was always a vegan option. Whichever dish you choose, it is naturally detoxifying and will make you feel incredible. I visited during what is considered low season, and all meals were served à la carte. During busy periods, breakfast and lunch are buffet style, which I experienced one day, and it was the most glorious spread I have ever seen! I met with one of the chefs who explained the health benefits and inspiration behind the daily menu. Every ingredient is carefully considered for maximum nutritional impact and flavour. There are 4 restaurants. Al Sidr Restaurant (Adults-only Restaurant) is close to the spa and Serenity rooms. Aizoon (family-focused but large enough to find a quiet corner), Acacia fine dining restaurant and Malbu seasonal outdoor beach bar style restaurant. You can enjoy any of the restaurants. The food at Zulal really was a top highlight for me.
Wellness Facilities
The concept at Zulal is around five core pillars: Nutrition, Physical Movement, Physiotherapy, Spa and Aesthetics. These guide its philosophy and holistic approach to health and wellbeing. These pillars integrate the wisdom of Traditional Arabic & Islamic Medicine (TAIM) with modern wellness science, offering guests a transformative experience, whatever the wellness goal. These five pillars come together to form personalised wellness journeys at Zulal, whether your goal is stress relief, vitality, detox, weight loss, or simply relaxation. The spa facilities include a hammam, salt relaxation room, hydrotherapy pools and cold plunge, sauna, steam, arctic cave, jet pool circuit and outdoor pool. The fitness facilities include a fully equipped gym, fitness studios, Gyrotonics, Yoga and Pilates studios, Tai Chi, Qi Gong and meditation pavilion, outdoor jogging trail and cycling. The buildings are linked by pathways and a 'garden of gratitude and reflection'. Very tranquil.
My Wellness Experience
I was originally pre-booked to do the 5-day Taste of Zulal programme, but following my pre-arrival call with Anand (the Naturopath at Zulal), it was recommended that I should do the 5-day Burnout Recovery programme. This programme was a life-changing experience for me. The balance of daily treatments, breathwork, relaxation, and advice given has really helped me manage stress levels, and this has had a big impact on all areas of my life. The main takeaway for me was that small but consistent changes were key to long-term change. The programme consisted of a daily Tadleek massage and also included a lymphatic drainage treatment, postural physio assessment and advice, Shirodhara, Pranayama, Reiki, TAIM consultation and an assisted super stretch. Combined with using the spa facilities, healthy nutrition, swimming, cycling and some much-needed vitamin D, I haven’t felt so well in years.
Verdict
Zulal is owned by the world-famous Chiva Som, and their ethos and standard is clearly represented at Zulal. It is the first and currently only dedicated wellness retreat in the Middle East and attracts a worldwide clientele. Zulal is a very special place. I would confidently recommend it to virtually everyone, as all wellness goals can be met from a simple, laid-back spa break all the way to a goal-focused, serious wellness programme. I left feeling de-stressed and revitalised, and have learnt a lot about myself. The environment is nurturing and caring, and there is attention to detail around every corner. Sublime.
Who is it for
- Both those wanting a serious wellness programme and a relaxing, healthy holiday
- Independent solo travellers who are looking for a luxury world-class experience
- Friends, couples and families with young children alike will find this location appealing
Tips
- For solo travellers who are looking for a social environment, Zulal may be too quiet; there is no communal table for dining, and it is more of a private experience
- Have a mocktail on the Mangrove Deck at sunset, followed by a floating meditation session and bedtime sound bath ritual – the perfect end to the day
- Due to minimal light pollution, the night sky is incredible. Once a week, a telescope is set up on the beach, and you can view the moon and Mars!
- At certain times of the year, you can see flamingos on a nearby island. Other excursions include kayaking in the nearby Mangrove forest
- If time allows, a pre-stay stopover in Doha for a few nights to experience the culture and visit the National Museum of Qatar, which is an architectural marvel. You can also visit the famous Souk Waqif and take a traditional Dhow boat out into the harbour to watch the sunset
Visited May 2025
You may also enjoy reading our other blog about Zulal Wellness Resort. For more information on the TAIM wellness philosophy used at Zulal, see our guide on What is a TAIM Retreat at Zulal Wellness Resort in Qatar. Equally, you may also find our Wellbeing at Home session with Dr Bibi Ayesha Lockhat, Zulal's expert in traditional Arabic Medicine, insightful. You can watch the session here.
For more information and to talk to our experts, please don't hesitate to Contact Us
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