While we love a massage, there’s something extra-indulgent about a hammam experience. The ritual originated in Turkey as far back as the 1400s, when public steam rooms and baths were commonplace.
Hammams, also called Turkish baths, are traditionally opulent spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation. So be prepared to put aside your inhibitions, as the whole experience involves someone getting up, close and, well, in scrubbing-distance-personal, with your body. The ritual sees you washed and exfoliated until your skin is so fresh and so clean.
Even though these hammams are single sex spaces, we advise you to double check the dress code with the spa (and if you intend to use its pool) before your visit. All you have to do now is pick your treatment of choice. Here are the best hammams in Riyadh.
Al Faisaliah Spa by ESPA
When you want to be wowed, look no further than the Al Faisaliah Hotel. The luxury hotel is located in one of Riyadh’s most iconic buildings and its spa brings a touch of class to the capital, thanks to its world-renowned ESPA products and its impressive 16 metre pool. Book the Royal Hammam Experience if you want to truly unwind, as over 120 minutes you’ll enjoy a steam, scrub, mud wrap as well as a scalp, foam and aromatherapy massage. There’s also the Indulgence Hammam Ritual, which is a snappier 60-minute version; Softening Hammam Ritual, which includes a hair conditioning treatment; and the Revitalising Hammam Cleanse, which is a 20 minute scrub down with black olive soap. The hammam is women-only – you must wear a swimming costume and cover your head.
From SAR345. King Fahd Road, alfaisaliahspa.com (011 273 3000).
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh Spa
This Royal Hammam treatment is fit for a king. There are two options: one lasting 60 minutes and another lasting 90 minutes. Both of the relaxing experiences start with a honey and jelly treatment that nourishes and firms the skin, which is then followed by a traditional Morrocan hammam ritual. While you are in this extravagant spa, make sure you check out the impressive facilities, which include a steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi, and, best of all, an outdoor pool. The hammam is only for men and you are advised to wear shorts or the disposable underwear.
From SAR2,450. Open daily 10am-10pm. Four Seasons Hotel Spa, Kingdom Centre, Olaya Street, Al Olaya, 12214, fourseasons.com (011 211 5000).
Sokoun at Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya
Sokoun spa is more on the trendy side, which is what you’d expect for a venue located in the heart of one of Riyadh’s coolest areas. The Rhassoul Hammam treatment is the magnum opus at Sokoun. It begins with a deep cleanse with black soap, a full body exfoliation with a kese mitt glove and then a body and facial mask. After you’ve been in the steam room – to activate all the mask’s goodness, of course – your hair will then be the focus. You’ll be shampooed and conditioned, given a body and head massage, and then, after 90 minutes, you should feel well and truly pampered.
When you’re tight on time or cash, opt for the Traditional Hammam 45-minute experience, which is a trimmed down (but still as indulgent) experience. The spa is currently male-only, and a Sukoun ladies spa will be opening soon.
From SAR400. Open daily. 9am-11pm. Olaya Street, hyatt.com/en-US/spas/Sokoun-Spa/home (011 288 1234).
Looking for wellbeing inspiration? Click here for the latest news and features.
