UAE spa market must cater to 'stressed-out men'

UAE spas must do more to cater for stressed-out males as a lack of work-life balance takes its toll on senior executives and business travellers, according to speakers at the Hotelier Middle East Spa and Wellness Summit 2014.

During the opening panel discussion on The Future of Spa & Wellness, moderator Sharon Barcock, director spa operations & development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton Worldwide suggested that the development of the men’s grooming market would be key in the future growth of the UAE’s spa business. 

At Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman, director of wellness Steve Harvey said men made up 50% of the spa business. 

“The need to combat stress and look good is even more demanding to men; they are looking to take care of themselves,” said Harvey. “Gentlemen are looking to learn more from stress management. [Many have] high powered jobs…are burning candle at both ends.” 

Dr Suni Paul, manager, Softouch Ayurvedic Spa Center – Kempinski Hotel Ajman, said stress was the main reason for men to visit the spa.

“A lot of men are coming in for de-stress treatments,” she said.

Jumeirah group director of spa Paul Hawco warned, however, that spas needed to do more to ensure that the entire spa experience suited men. Having specific male treatments would not be enough, he said.

“I still don’t think men are totally comfortable being in spas,” said Hawco. “A lot of the spas have gone way past consideration of male products, that’s a given, but more can be done to customize for the men,” he said, right down to the design of spa robes and changing facilities.

Simon Casson, regional vice president and general manager, Four Seasons Resort Dubai and chairman, Four Seasons Global Spa Taskforce, said he had noticed more stylish male salons and spas in Dubai.

“Spas are being designed with the man in mind — 1847and Hommage, for example…the high-end boutique,” he observed.

“Demographically, why would you not look at men? We need it, we enjoy it and we are happy it is becoming more mainstream,” said Casson, adding that an increase of male spa managers in the industry would help further move the segment forward.

The Hotelier Middle East Spa and Wellness Summit 2014 is being held at Grosvenor House Hotel Dubai from February 10-11 and is sponsored by The Product House and Sarum Trading.