Arabic massage is the one treatment on our menu that did not travel here — it is the bodywork tradition of this region. At A2 Spa in Majan, Al Barari, it is performed the way it has been for generations: generous warm oil, long unbroken strokes that follow the whole length of a muscle, and steady palm pressure that never rushes. If you have only ever had a Swedish or deep tissue massage in Dubai, this will feel noticeably different.
What a traditional Arabic massage actually is
Across the Gulf and the Levant, massage has always been built around oil and warmth rather than dry technique. The therapist warms the oil, applies it liberally, and then works in long continuous sweeps — from the lower back up to the shoulders, from ankle to hip, from wrist to shoulder — instead of breaking the body into small isolated segments.
The pressure is medium to firm, but it keeps moving. Where a deep tissue therapist might hold one thumb on a single knot for thirty seconds, an Arabic massage therapist glides through the tension with the forearm and the heel of the palm, returning to a tight area again and again across the session. The result is a treatment that feels more enveloping and less clinical.
Scalp and hairline work is traditionally part of the session too. Many guests tell us that is the part they remember most.
Treatment rooms at A2 Spa, Palm Tree Residence, Majan
How the session runs
- A short consultation — pressure preference, any injuries or sensitive areas, and whether you want a scented or unscented oil.
- The oil is warmed. You lie face down under draping; only the area being worked is uncovered.
- Back and shoulders first, with long sweeping strokes, then the legs, arms and neck.
- Scalp and hairline to close, followed by a few quiet minutes before you get up.
Please arrive around 10 minutes early so the session starts on time.
Arabic vs. Swedish vs. deep tissue — which one should you book?
These three are the most commonly confused treatments on any Dubai spa menu. The short version:
| Arabic massage | Swedish massage | Deep tissue massage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil used | Generous, warmed, often aromatic | Moderate, light | Minimal — grip matters more than glide |
| Stroke | Long, continuous, full-limb | Shorter, rhythmic, varied | Slow, short, targeted |
| Pressure | Medium to firm, always moving | Light to medium | Firm to strong, held on one point |
| Best for | Whole-body unwinding, dry skin, sleep | A first massage, general relaxation | A specific stubborn knot or injury |
| How it feels after | Warm, oiled, heavy-limbed calm | Light and refreshed | Worked-on, sometimes tender for a day |
Who tends to book it
Anyone whose skin is taking a beating
Between the sun outside and the air conditioning inside, Dubai is hard on skin. The volume of oil in this treatment can help with that as much as the massage itself.
People who find deep tissue too intense
You still get firm pressure and real tension relief, but without a therapist parking an elbow in one spot for a minute at a time.
Late finishers
We are open until 3:00 AM daily, so this works as a genuine wind-down after a late shift or a long evening — not something you have to squeeze into a lunch break.
Massage supports relaxation and general wellbeing and can help with everyday muscle tension, but it is not a medical treatment. If you are pregnant, recovering from surgery, or managing a health condition, please check with your doctor first and tell your therapist when you arrive.
Choosing your oil
The base is a warmed neutral carrier oil. From there you can add a regional aromatic blend — oud for something deep and resinous, amber for warmth and sweetness, rose or jasmine for something lighter and floral. Unscented is always available, and it is the right choice if you have sensitive skin, allergies, or you are heading straight to somewhere you would rather not arrive smelling of oud.
Traditionally the oil is left on the skin for a few hours afterwards. If that does not suit your plans, tell reception when you arrive.
Pair it with
Arabic massage sits naturally alongside the other regional treatments on our menu:
Moroccan Bath
Steam, black soap and a kessa glove first — then oil onto completely clean, exfoliated skin. The classic pairing.
Body Scrub
A shorter alternative to the full bath, with the same effect: the oil absorbs far better after exfoliation.
Hot Stone Massage
If it is the warmth you are after more than the oil, heated basalt stones take that further.
Combinations are also available as spa packages, and can be booked for two people in our couples room.
Sessions and pricing
| Session | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Arabic Massage | NN minutes | AED XXX |
| Arabic Massage | NN minutes | AED XXX |
| Arabic Massage + Moroccan Bath | NN minutes | AED XXX |
| Arabic Massage for two (couples room) | NN minutes | AED XXX |
Book your Arabic massage
Open daily, 10:30 AM until 3:00 AM. Walk-ins welcome when we have a room free — but a message ahead is safer.
Book on WhatsApp Call +971 50 806 8788Arabic massage near you in Dubailand
A2 Spa sits in Majan, on the Al Barari side of Dubailand — a short drive from most of the surrounding communities:
A2 Spa
Massage & Wellness Spa
Address:
Shop 3, Palm Tree Residence, Majan – Al Barari, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone:
+971 50 806 8788
Opening hours:
Daily 10:30 AM – 3:00 AM