Traveling to Zulal Wellness Resort in Doha, I had no idea what to expect. Qatar might not be the first destination that comes to mind for a wellness retreat, yet what I experienced was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and care, with every detail thoughtfully designed to nourish both body and soul. As the creators of one of the world's most celebrated health spas, Chiva-Som, established in Thailand in the 1980s, the team behind Zulal brings decades of expertise to their second wellness retreat. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Middle East, Zulal Wellness Resort seamlessly combines luxury with holistic healing traditions. The resort’s staff, representing over 30 nationalities - primarily from Asia - bring extensive expertise in Eastern healing practices, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Thai Traditional Medicine (TTM), and the resort's distinctive feature, Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM). These ancient approaches are thoughtfully integrated into programs tailored to stress reduction, detox, fitness, healthy aging, and more.
One of the standout features of Zulal is its holistic approach, deeply rooted in Eastern healing traditions like TAIM (Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine). I had the pleasure of meeting Bibi, the TAIM doctor, a warm and cheerful individual. TAIM goes beyond addressing physical symptoms, focusing equally on mental and emotional well-being, emphasizing the connection between body and mind. During my session, Bibi used tongue analysis, heart pulse readings, and questionnaires to determine my type—a mix of fire and water—and explained TAIM’s unique perspective on achieving health and mental balance. She offered practical advice on diet, exercise, and relaxation. It was a thoughtful and enriching experience, with a refreshing focus on truly understanding and addressing your overall well-being.
Zulal captures the essence of Middle Eastern architecture with its thick walls, high ceilings, and beautifully warm, natural tones throughout the interior. What makes it truly special are the thoughtful touches: the awe-inspiring Library of Wisdom with books stretching to the ceiling, tranquil tea ceremonies, and complimentary bicycles for exploring the grounds. The daily schedule of holistic activities is equally impressive, offering not only yoga, Pilates, and meditation but also unique options like mudflat walking, chair yoga, padel, stretching, floating meditation, and more. Every detail is designed to create a serene and enriching experience.
The staff represents over 30 nationalities, with most coming from Asian countries like Thailand, Bali, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and India. Their warmth and kindness shine through in every interaction, as they greet me each day with a smile and a heartfelt commitment to my care. Their exceptional training, received at the prestigious Chiva-Som institute in Thailand, ensures treatments of the highest quality.
The meals are truly masterpieces, worthy of a Michelin star. The chefs take me on a flavorful journey, crafting dishes with fresh ingredients that delight the senses. My full-board stay allows me the flexibility to dine whenever and wherever I choose—whether I’m craving something healthy and light, rich and indulgent, or just a quick bite. During a chat with the Thai head chef at Al Sidr, she offers me a selection of small tasting bites, turning the moment into a culinary celebration. The resort features three restaurants: Al Sidr, serving Asian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Aizoon, with a focus on healthy Arabic and international dishes; and a fine dining option for an elevated gastronomic experience.
I’m staying in a junior suite in the Serenity section, a space thoughtfully designed to exude calm, with large windows offering stunning views of the lagoon. It’s the small touches that truly stand out—a water bottle engraved with my name and the soft, white cotton Kurta pajamas waiting in the room, perfect for wearing around the resort all day.
Zulal offers a diverse selection of holistic activities, including yoga, meditation, nature walks, and fitness classes. One charming feature is the availability of bicycles, allowing guests to easily navigate the resort’s sprawling grounds. With so many facilities to explore, the bikes are both fun and practical. Whether you’re unwinding at the spa, participating in activities, or lounging on the beach, there’s always something to enjoy.
My morning begins with a chair yoga class—something I’d never tried before, but it turns out to be a perfect fit for someone as inflexible as me. The stretches and movements are simple and manageable, leaving me feeling light and refreshed—a wonderful way to start the day. Later, I step it up with a private session on the Pilates Reformer. The controlled, targeted exercises not only stretch my muscles but also strengthen my core. It’s exactly what I need, especially as building strength has become a priority now that I’m nearing 50.
Following my Pilates session, I indulge in a super stretch class, perfect for easing tension and loosening up. Later in the evening, I take part in the padel clinic.
One of the activities I love most is the evening floating meditation. Resting on a mattress that softly floats on the water, with soothing music playing through headphones, I look up at the stars. It’s an absolutely magical experience!
During my stay, the TAIM doctor recommends herbal supplements tailored to my needs, including rosebuds for a soothing bedtime tea and a custom blend to support hormone balance. These thoughtful, natural additions to my daily routine truly elevate the experience.
Zulal Wellness Resort is far more than just an outstanding health spa—it’s a sanctuary where you can reconnect with yourself on every level. With its blend of holistic treatments, nourishing cuisine, personalized attention, and enriching activities, it provides a deeply restorative experience. For anyone seeking a place to recharge, recover, and truly unwind mentally, I can genuinely recommend Zulal.
This blog is written by Marleen, the founder of PureandCure.com in 2005. She travels around the world in search of the best Health & Wellbeing Hotels, Spas and Retreats and shares her know-how, experiences and observations through her blogs.