'I flew 12,000km to the largest spa in the Middle East for a luxury wellness experience like no other'

When you think of Dubai, the likes of grandeur, sheer luxury and modernity come to mind; It's a bustling and ever-changing city in the desert of the United Arab Emirates.

And that's exactly what I experienced when I flew approximately 12,000kms from Sydney to Dubai and visited the largest spa and hammam in the Middle East.

The award-winning Talise Ottoman Spa, located inside the five-star Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah, was a world-class wellness experience, and like nothing I have ever experienced before.

READ MORE: Remote outback lodge named one of the best hotels in the world

Dubai is a top destination for wellness

I have stayed in Dubai once before on a short a stopover from Europe. But had never actually realised that Dubai is a top destination for wellness; and so much more.

To give you a sense of the sheer splendour and scale I'm referring to at the spa, it has 42 treatment rooms and is said to be spread out over 8,200sqm.

READ MORE: Hotel openings and news to get excited about in 2026

View gallery

The best spa destinations in the world for 2026

It even features thalassotherapy pools (warmed and mineral-rich sea water pools), as well as snow rooms (yes, even in the desert, impressive) and three hammams.

I'm told 80 per cent of business comes from guests exclusively going onto the Palm for a treatment.

READ MORE: How to get free food at this international airport

What to expert from a Royal Ottoman Hammam

Three ladies and myself, as part of our Australian travel group, slipped into disposable underwear and fluffy white robes to begin our Turkish-style treatment, a completely indulgent Royal Ottoman Hammam. So, what does this entail?

First off, it's a communal bathing experience in a warm room, so best be prepared.

You take off your robe and relax on a stunningly warm stone and glance up at the ornate painted ceilings and drift off into a wellness experience guaranteed to shock and relax you at the same time.

I only say shock, in the best way possible, as I have never had a Turkish-style spa experience before and didn't know what to expect, or the fact that a lot of water would be used in a treatment.

Warm water rushes over your hair as staff wash it and gently massage your scalp, and soon a body scrub begins.

You're then layered in foam and rinsed in multiple steps, followed by a soothing honey mask for the skin.

A final touch is getting a rush of cold water over your hair and body, which is almost like a cold-water plunge that is said to help with your mood, circulation and inflammation.

Afterwards, you're taken to your own private area to relax and enjoy some downtime and light refreshments at your leisure.

I've never felt so clean, refreshed and relaxed and already can't wait to do it again in future. The next day, my skin was glowing.

But of course, there are also so many other incredible experiences in Dubai, that Aussie travellers can see and do there.

For example, you can also do yoga classes at Kite beach.

Keep reading for some top dining destinations and desert adventures we got to try.

Enjoy some of the world's best dining spots

Dubai really is a city for foodies. It boasts some of the most incredible fine-dining and Michelin-starred restaurants.

It also has great spots for authentic, traditional and equally-delicious Emirati cuisine.

Some of the most incredible food came out from restaurants including Boca Dubai, a modern Spanish restaurant in the heart of the financial district in the city, that has an impressive wine cellar and a strong focus on sustainability.

I would highly-recommend the fresh fish dish with a French-onion styled sauce.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is also a world-class dining experience at Atlantis The Royal, with Australian-born Chef Chris Malone leading the charge.

If you're in the mood for Asian food, Tattu Dubai Restaurant and Bar, 74 floors up in a building, is great to visit, and you'll be greeted with fake cherry blossom trees and eye-catching black dragon statues - a feast for the eyes and stomach!

It also has sweeping views over the city and Palm.

However, a must-visit for authentic Emirati cuisine is Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant; near Dubai Old City.

Think traditional rice and meat dishes, as well as tasty bread and salads.

Visitors are also treated to live entertainment in a lively and open-air setting, with friendly staff.

'Desert Disneyland' and other must-do experiences

Dubai really has something for everyone, of all ages.

A visit to Dubai's Gold and Spice Souks is a must; never have I seen so much gold and jewellery!

However, Global Village is a place I cheekily dubbed "desert Disneyland" - and a great place to check out, especially for families.

It features food and market pavilions and stands influenced from all around the world, shows and performances, restaurants and even rides.

It's also good if you want tasty food in a more relaxed setting.

And entry prices are decent too, starting from AED 25 per person ($10). Every family visiting Dubai should go here.

Hitting the desert

Now, I have done a desert safari before in Dubai, but nothing to this scale.

The Platinum Heritage Bedouin Culture Safari saw our travel group head early morning into a conservation reserve for a traditional breakfast, camel ride, a falcon and owl show and even a ride in a vintage Land Rover, now that was cool.

Another great site to see is the eye-catching Dubai Frame, you'll feel on top of the world as you go up the top for some of the best views of the city.

The Museum of the Future is also a must-see.

Immerse yourself and learn about Emirati culture

This one is for the coffee lovers.

A big part of Emirati culture is respect and hospitality; And that means a welcoming coffee and dates almost everywhere you go.

A visit to old Dubai will see you walk by the Dubai Coffee Museum, with the most friendly and welcoming staff.

If you keep strolling around, there are some eye-catching pieces of art to see at the XVA Art Gallery and Hotel.

And you can learn about the significance of fragrance in Emirati Culture with a visit to the Perfume House - Al Shindagha Museum, near Dubai Creek.

The old town area was once home to Dubai's ruling family.

One more thing

All in all, there's so much to see and do in Dubai, that it really is worth more than just a stop over.

Top tip though; Leave plenty of travel time if you're getting around by car, the city is truly bustling and that means traffic, and you don't want to be rushed on your trip, you want to enjoy it.

The writer travelled as a guest of Dubai Economy and Tourism.

View gallery

The world's most visited destinations for 2025