Hotel details
Thailand's renowned health spa, Chiva-Som, has expanded to a new location in the tranquil northern area of Qatar with Zulal. The new spa offers the same exceptional level of holistic programs, services, treatments, and meals that Chiva-Som is famous for.
Where you are going...
Zulal Wellness Resort is located at the far northern point of Qatar, roughly 75 minutes by car from Doha. Set along a sandy beach, the resort features a lagoon running through it, offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Nearby, you'll find Al Khasooma, with Al Ruwais located just five kilometers away. This destination spa is designed to offer peace, privacy, and relaxation.
Why you’ll love it...
Chiva-Som, established in the 1980s as one of Thailand’s first health spas, has earned a stellar reputation and is now recognized as one of the world’s leading health spas. Everything about it exudes quality, and this same level of excellence is reflected in Zulal, Chiva-Som’s second wellness resort, now located in the Middle East. Zulal's staff is incredibly diverse, with over 30 nationalities represented, the majority from Asia. The resort draws from a rich variety of Eastern healing traditions, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM), and also incorporates Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) into its wellness programs.
Zulal’s programs are designed around themes like stress relief, weight management, detox, fitness, healthy lifestyle reset, and healthy aging, or simply relaxation. The resort’s architecture reflects a typical Middle Eastern style with thick walls, high ceilings, and warm, natural décor. It’s the thoughtful details that truly set Zulal apart—such as the Library of Wisdom, tea ceremonies, complimentary bicycles, and an extensive schedule of holistic activities. These range from yoga, Pilates, and meditation to unique offerings like mudflat hiking, chair yoga, padel clinics, stretching, and floating meditation. And, of course, the food is a standout feature—beautifully crafted dishes that, if eligible, would easily be worthy of Michelin-star recognition.
Wellness, Spa and Health
Zulal’s wellness zone, meaning "pure natural water" in Arabic, is an adults-only spa spanning around 800 square meters. It features indoor and outdoor pools with jets, ice baths, saunas, steam rooms, lounges, and a tea and water station. There are separate spa facilities for men and women, both offering the same amenities. The resort also has several yoga salas, studios for private and group sessions in yoga, Pilates (with reformers), dance, and stretching, as well as a fitness center with a variety of cardio equipment. When you book a wellness program, your stay begins with a consultation with a holistic doctor. Some programs may also include a session with a TAIM (Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine) doctor, although this can be booked separately as well, and is highly recommended. The TAIM doctor takes a holistic approach, using methods like tongue and heart pulse analysis, along with questionnaires, to determine your wellness profile, and offers tailored advice on nutrition, exercise, and relaxation. The resort offers a full schedule of daily activities, including holistic and fitness classes, stretching sessions, excursions, and workshops, all of which are free to join.
Zulal is divided into two main areas: Serenity, which is adults-only, and Discovery, a family-friendly section where children are welcome. While there is no strict division between the two, the Serenity area is designed exclusively for adults and is where most guests prefer to stay. Zulal Discovery offers a unique experience for families, with interactive activities that help children and parents learn about healthy living together. These activities are organized by age group, with four different programs for children, parents, and even grandparents. Younger kids can enjoy nature outings and creative projects, while older children can participate in activities like kayaking, dancing, or personal training sessions.
Holistic Activities and Sports
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Tai Chi
- Fitness
- Stretching
- Zumba
- Stretching
- (Aqua) aerobics
- Meditation floating
- Padel clinic
- Hikes and walks
- Excursions
- Workshops
What’s on the Menu
Zulal’s cuisine, much like at Chiva-Som, is remarkably delicious and of top-notch quality. The chefs guide you on a culinary journey filled with flavorful and fresh ingredients. There are three dining options: Restaurant Al Sidr offers an Asian-inspired menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with à la carte options available, even for breakfast. Restaurant Aizoon serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide selection of healthy Arabic and international dishes. Restaurant Acacia, the fine dining restaurant, is open for dinner and features an exceptional menu of gourmet Arabic and international dishes.
At the Circle of Trust, you can enjoy the natural surroundings and a beautiful sunset while indulging in a healthy BBQ, a personalized menu, and live cooking. If you're on a full or half-board plan, you can enjoy à la carte or choose a four-course menu at any of the three restaurants. Even if you're trying to lose weight, you'll be impressed by the high level of culinary expertise.
We love
- The unique blend of Chiva-Som's holistic health and wellness philosophy with Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) is unlike anything else in the world
- You can freely use the bicycles available throughout the resort
- Guests are provided with high-quality white Kurta-pajamas during their stay
- A consultation with the TAIM doctor is included in the experience
Good to know
- The hotel does not serve alcohol
- At high tide, the water reaches the beach, but during low tide, you may have to walk a kilometer or more to reach the water. It's a great opportunity for mudflat hiking. If you'd like to go paddleboarding or swimming, be sure to check the tide schedules posted by the sea or at the reception
+31 (0)20 573 03 50
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