Qatar

Qatar's luxury spa and wellness scene is smaller but similarly polished, centred largely around Doha, and tends to offer a slightly quieter, less sprawling alternative to Dubai's larger-scale wellness industry.

Given its strong connectivity via Doha, Qatar can work well as either a standalone short break or a stopover added to a longer journey elsewhere - worth discussing with your advisor if you're combining destinations.

Modest dress is generally expected in public areas, and it's worth researching local customs in advance, particularly around alcohol, which is more restricted here than in Dubai.

Availability is more limited than in Dubai, generally restricted to licensed hotel venues - worth checking with your specific retreat if this matters to your stay.

Several retreats offer or can arrange desert excursions, capitalising on Qatar's dramatic dune landscapes as a contrast to the polish of Doha's city-based spa facilities.

Qatar's resorts generally cater well to families alongside adult-focused spa facilities, making it workable for a family trip with a wellness element built in.

Doha's spa hotels tend to be built to an exceptionally high standard, often within striking modern architecture, reflecting the scale of investment in Qatar's luxury hospitality sector.

Direct flights are available from most major UK airports, taking around 7 hours, comparable to Dubai and Oman.

Broadly comparable - both sit at the luxury end of Gulf wellness destinations, though Qatar's scene is somewhat more compact, which can mean a calmer, less overwhelming experience.

November to March offers considerably more comfortable temperatures for anyone wanting to combine spa time with outdoor activity.