In recent years, ‘wellness’ has come to mean many things for hotel operators. The term encompasses guest-centric experiences, environmental initiatives and architectural innovations – extending beyond the spa or health facilities to holistically shape the entire hotel journey.
As Area Director of Spa & Wellness, Middle East with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, I’m currently focused on the upcoming launch of Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai – and it’s fascinating to see how wellness has been strategically integrated throughout the property. From the very initial planning stages, it was important that we implement energy-saving technology, opt for renewable materials, optimize natural light and incorporate spaces to foster an atmosphere that enhances physical and mental health.
Authenticity and personalisation are key
The region boasts a unique combination of cutting-edge technologies and world-class spa facilities, as well as age-old traditions and therapies which allow travellers to connect with Middle Eastern heritage. For example, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental prides itself on incorporating local ingredients at each property such as a natural date seed scrub at Mandarin Oriental, Doha or a traditional Moroccan Hammam at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech.
In addition to providing meaningful guest experiences, Mandarin Oriental only partners with wellness brands that align with our values.
A lot of research goes into finding the right organic, cruelty-free, and locally sourced spa products for each hotel – creating trust and transparency for guests and therapists alike. Here in Dubai, we have won several awards by building close relationships with the people behind these wellness brands to ensure we have a comprehensive understanding of where the ingredients come from, how they are harvested and their unique benefits. This way, we can pave the way for more meaningful spa experiences that connect our guests with the local environment.
Today’s consumers are looking for more than lavish amenities; they want brands that stand for something and align with their values. We therefore have very strict guidelines when it comes to responsible procurement across our hotels, whether choosing food suppliers or the type of linens in our guest rooms. In turn, guests can sleep easy in their beds or relax at the spa – safe in the knowledge that they’re supporting a greener future.
Wellbeing that combines luxury, sustainability and innovation.
One example of how we push the envelope in hospitality is the first-of-its-kind Vegan Room category at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi. In these six units, all the fabrics are non-chemically treated, the bedsheets are 100% organic and biodegradable, bespoke in-room dining is available, and the staff cannot enter the room in leather shoes. Guests visiting the Spa will find exclusive vegan treatments– without sacrificing any of the luxury expected of a palace.
Hotels must set firm, sustainability targets
To that end, we removed single-use plastics from our spas across the globe over 18 months ago. Incorporating plant-based materials for items like straws, takeout containers, and food packaging contributed to Mandarin Oriental’s global elimination of nearly 1,000 metric tons of plastic waste annually between 2022 and 2023. We also actively support the development of the Net Zero Methodology in line with the Group’s goal to to help the Group target up to a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.
As health and wellness continue to be at the top of peoples’ minds across the globe, and tourists look to make their travel experiences more purposeful, the Middle East is in the perfect position to pave the way for meaningful wellness experiences.
(Sara Codner, Area Director of Spa & Wellness, Middle East at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai has over 28 years’ experience in the Spa and Wellness Industry. She began her wellness journey as a spa therapist and then moved into consultancy, working on developmental projects throughout the world. Ms. Codner brings both business acumen as well as a passion for and deep insight into the spa industry to her role.)
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of TRENDS.