It might not sound like the obvious way to treat yourself – rushing to a spa for a whirlwind session then hotfooting it back to work again.
But you’d be surprised how much better just half an hour of afternoon TLC can make you feel, whether it’s an energy-boosting massage, a bright splash of colour on your nails or a skin refresher. Here’s our pick of the best.
Silkor – express massage
If you’re in need of a quick pick-me-up, try out this express massage, which focuses on the back, neck, shoulders and scalp. The treatment is designed to give you a mini tune-up, using rejuvenating natural plant oils which smell delicious and lift your mood. It’s a great stress-zapper and puts a spring back in your step for the rest of the day.
Express massage, 30 minutes, Dhs150. Silkor Villa 1, Khalidiya, Sheikh Zayed 1st Street (02 681 6070)
Zen the Spa – mini facial
A great way to freshen up your skin in a hurry, this ultra-quick facial includes cleansing, exfoliating, a quick mask plus toning serum with a pressure point massage. However, don’t forget to bring your make-up in your handbag or you’ll be shiny-faced for the rest of the day.
Mini facial, 30 minutes, Dhs225. Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area (02 697 9333)
Sister’s Lounge – head, neck & shoulder massage
Popular UAE chain Sister’s Lounge says its philosophy is to cater to busy girls, so it’s offering a half-hour head, neck and shoulder massage designed to melt away office tension.
Head, neck and shoulder massage, 30 minutes, Dhs120. Sister’s Lounge, Villa 1, Khalifa Bin Shakhbout Street, Al Bateen (02 2222 501)
Espa – file and polish
If you find yourself on Yas Island, you can nip into Espa for a spot of pampering. If you’re short on time, a mini manicure is the perfect option. They’ll whisk you in, give you a quick file and shape, moisturise your hands and add a fresh application of polish. Just don’t smudge it as you rush back out again.
File and polish, 25 minutes, Dhs185. The Yas Hotel, Yas Island (02 656 0861)
Hiltonia – back, neck & shoulder massage
Anyone hunched over their laptop for most of the day should make a quick stop at the Hiltonia spa. Got that classic back-of-the-neck muscle bunching? They’ll sort out your aches and pains in a jiffy, concentrating on tension and stress relief.
Back, neck and shoulder massage, 30 minutes, Dhs135. Hiltonia Health Club and Spa, Corniche (02 681 1900)
Zayna Spa – eye treatment for puffiness & dark circles
Had a late night? Zayna offers an emergency 30-minute eye treatment that will have you looking human again for your afternoon meetings. It uses collagen fibre and ginkgo biloba to counteract puffiness and dark circles with a cooling and decongesting mask. Anyone with mature skin should try the spa’s option for fine lines and wrinkles, which will work wonders.
Eye treatment, 30 minutes Dhs260. Grand Millennium Al Wahda (02 443 9999)
