Corinthia Hotels and Dubai General Properties (DGP) have partnered to develop a new five-star hotel and residential complex in the heart of Dubai, marking Corinthia’s debut in the Middle East.
The new-build project will include a next-generation wellness centre, Corinthia Wellness, which the operator says will offer an extensive range of services, including a large spa.
At more than 500 metres, the two-tower Corinthia Dubai will be one of the tallest buildings in the world and sit on Sheikh Zayed Road. The development will feature a cantilevered sky lobby extending 200 metres above the ground and the world’s highest outdoor sky pool, offering 360-degree city views.
Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels, said: “We’re honoured to be
bringing Corinthia to Dubai, a city I know and love from my decade-long residence here. This architectural gem will honour the ambitious vision set forth by the leadership of Dubai and is made possible by our partnership with DGP.”
We’re proud and honoured to be bringing the Corinthia brand to Dubai
Simon Casson
■ Corinthia Dubai will be crowned with the world’s highest sky pool
spa business people
Séan Harrington unveils Elemis’ new partnership with Aston Martin Aramco
The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team has announced Elemis as its first official skincare partner, marking the beginning of a multi-year collaboration between the two British brands.
Announcing the news, Séan Harrington, Elemis co-founder and CEO, said: “Becoming the first official skincare partner of Aston Martin Aramco marks a meaningful, collaborative milestone for Elemis.
“This value-driven partnership is the first of its kind in Formula One. It demonstrates how two leaders and innovators in our respective fields can work together to shift perception, empower others and create an unrivalled lifestyle experience.”
The space itself is great –huge ceiling heights, lots of natural light and period features
Colin Waggett
This marks a meaningful, collaborative milestone for Elemis
Séan Harrington
During the partnership’s debut year, Elemis will unveil limited-edition product collections and introduce experiential ‘pit stop’ treatments for VIP guests at the Aston Martin Aramco Paddock Club Suite.
The tie-up will also bring a wellness experience to the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, where Elemis will debut a first-of-its-kind spa activation aboard the Aston Martin Aramco luxury yacht.
Beyond luxury experiences, the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to inclusivity within Formula 1, a sport witnessing a dynamic shift in its fan base. According to a recent Nielsen study, 41 per cent of F1 fans are women.
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/h7Q9G_B
Colin Waggett: Third Space will open in the heart of London’s Oxford Street
After four launches last year, Third Space is keeping up the pace of expansion with a new signing on London’s Oxford Street, as well as taking keys for The Whiteley.
The premium operator, which has a collection of 13 clubs in the capital, is maintaining a steady rate of expansion, backed by KSL.
The latest site to be announced is the Elephant Building on Oxford Street which was previously home to House of Fraser. The iconic Art Deco building is currently undergoing
a £132 million revamp to become a 250,000sq ft mixed-use development.
Third Space will deliver the largest health club and spa in the West End, offering 30,000sq ft of its high-end offering: an expansive gym floor, a wet spa and dedicated studios.
Third Space CEO, Colin Waggett, said the site was appealing for a number of reasons: “Oxford Street is being dramatically re-positioned with multiple office developments which will increase the density of what is already a great catchment.”
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/f5J9T_B
#ReconnectMagenta is not just a theme – it’s a movement
Belgin Aksoy
Belgin Aksoy announces official theme for GWD 2025
Global Wellness Day (GWD) is set to return for its 14th year on 14 June 2025, embracing the theme: #ReconnectMagenta – a call to restore meaningful connections with ourselves, our communities and the planet.
In an era of digital overload and social fragmentation, this year’s theme encourages individuals to pause, reflect and rekindle the relationships that nurture.
Founded in 2012 by Belgin Aksoy in Turkey, GWD inspires people worldwide through free health and wellness activities, with leading spa and hospitality brands – such as Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons and Accor – playing an active role in the celebrations.
“This year, we invite people to take a step back from the noise, reflect on what truly matters and embrace the power of real, human connection,” said Aksoy.
“#ReconnectMagenta is not just a theme – it’s a movement towards a more harmonious and fulfilling life.”
People
Séan Harrington unveils Elemis’ new partnership with Aston Martin Aramco as first-ever official skincare partner
Training
Glasgow Clyde College launches degree-level qualification to shape next generation of spa leaders
Women’s health
Tenth Wellness launches postpartum retreat at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park to empower new parents
SPA BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Designing well
Exclusive: Accor reimagines the future of wellness, spa and fitness design in all-new white paper
Project preview
Data-driven longevity spa Nao to debut at Minos Palace Resort in May 2025
Supplier news
The latest in products and innovation from Augustinus Bader, Swissline, 111Skin, Ashmira Botanica and Alqvimia
Sign up to Spa Business insider: Online: www. spabusiness.com/signup
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Tel: +44 (0)1462 471930
Annual subscriptions: International £114, UK £80 and UK students £42. @spabusinessmag
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THE BAR
Colorado Springs
March 11–13
EDUCATION
New degree launches for spa leaders
Glasgow Clyde College (GCC) is introducing an innovative UK degree-level qualification: the Advanced Leadership in the Spa and Beauty Industry course. This new programme, available for an August 2025 intake, is officially credit-rated at SCQF Level 9.
The internationally-recognised degree is designed to provide therapists with the essential skills to excel in leadership and management roles, directly addressing the industry’s need for skilled managers and business owners.
PROJECTS
Four Seasons to realise beachfront retreat in UAE
Four Seasons has announced plans to expand its presence in the UAE with a new luxury resort in Ras Al Khaimah, set within the flagship Mina Al Arab development.
The hospitality giant has partnered with UAE real estate developer RAK Properties to bring the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Ras Al Khaimah to life as part of the 1,000-acre masterplanned waterfront destination.
The new resort will feature approximately 150 rooms, suites and villas, alongside 130 residences.
Guests and residents will have access to extensive wellness
The course has been created for experienced therapists who are ready to take the next step in their careers, whether that’s to launch a business, lead a team or manage a salon or spa.
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/j7m7x_B
and leisure facilities, including a 10-treatment-room spa, a salon, family and adult pools, a fitness centre and paddle, tennis and basketball courts. In addition, the development will be home to indoor event spaces, children’s facilities and a variety of F&B and entertainment options.
Construction is set to begin in 2026, with architecture firm Killa Design leading the design of the masterplan.
The property will mark Four Seasons’ sixth location in the UAE.
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/Y3t8z_B
■ Mina Al Arab is a waterfront development
■ The course is for experienced therapists
NEW BRANDS
Scott Best unveils luxury club concept
Scott Best, owner of Fitness First UK, has created a new luxury health club concept called V, the first of which has launched at Berkeley Square House, in the heart of London’s Mayfair.
Rooted in five pillars of wellness – physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social – the offer has been designed to deliver a wide range of holistic services under one roof. Best says his goal is to redefine luxury wellness.
“It’s long been an ambition of mine to open a premium club,” he
PROGRAMMING
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park offers postpartum retreat
Luxury five-star London hotel Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park has introduced a seven-day postpartum recovery retreat to support new mothers through their recovery, while also offering dedicated newborn care and paternal support.
Hosted in partnership with London-based postpartum retreat specialist Tenth Wellness, the curated programme helps mothers navigate the physical and mental transitions of the postpartum period.
A key pillar of Tenth Wellness’ philosophy is to equip new parents with the knowledge and confidence to care for their newborns. In
said. “When the lease came up on the Fitness First club in Mayfair it provided the ideal opportunity. We’re looking to target those who demand the best in health, performance and restoration.”
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/r2E7X_B
addition to mother-focused recovery, the retreat features specialist paternal support services, including 1:1 fatherspecific coaching sessions and expert guidance on adjusting to fatherhood. The retreat is available in two tiers; Comfort Package – £11,165 (US$13,907, €13,405) or the Elevated Package – £15,750 (US$19,618, €18,910).
For those who prefer to recover at home, Tenth Wellness also offers a seven-day at-home retreat starting at £3,500 (US$4,359, €4,202).
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/T9G8H_B
The retreat is designed to empower parents
■ V has launched at Berkeley Square House PHOTO: V
10 – 13 APR 25 Exhibition
spa business insights
Designing well
Accor's SVP of wellbeing, Emlyn Brown, speaks exclusively to Spa Business about a new white paper reimagining the future of wellness, spa and fitness design
■ Leading designers, architects and consultants worked on the report
We believe it’s our responsibility to share insights that elevate wellness, spa and fitness design across the sector
Accor has released a comprehensive white paper designed to deepen understanding of wellness design and its capacity to enhance guest experiences, boost loyalty and drive revenue.
Spanning 16 chapters, Making Waves: Rethinking Spa and Wellness Design for a Modern Era explores key aspects of the wellness design process, exploring best practices, challenges and innovations in spa and fitness design.
The white paper outlines Accor’s evolving approach to wellness across its global hospitality brands and emphasises wellness design’s growing role in hospitality.
“We believe it’s our responsibility to not only educate within Accor but to share insights that elevate wellness, spa and fitness design across the sector,” said Emlyn Brown, Accor’s SVP of wellbeing.
Brown emphasised that the white paper challenges outdated assumptions while inspiring new approaches. “Our goal is to inspire creative design, challenge existing norms and address many misconceptions that have often shaped spa and fitness design based on incorrect assumptions.
“By integrating wellness-focused amenities and services, hoteliers can enhance guest experiences and loyalty, di erentiate themselves
ACCOR
Emlyn Brown
environments that nurture their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing
Our goal is to inspire creative design, challenge existing norms and address misconceptions
in a competitive market and drive significant revenue growth.”
Leading designers, architects and consultants worked alongside Accor’s Wellness & Design team to produce the report. Originally conceived as a video education series for Accor’s Design and Development teams, the project evolved into a full-scale industry resource after two years of work.
Highlights
Brown commented on two critical topics covered in the report:
■ Circulation and transitions: “Much of the spa journey is about movement. How can we make transitions visually engaging, layered and textured? It’s not just about treatment rooms – lounges, corridors and relaxation spaces deserve the same attention.”
■ Thermal and pool experiences: “In 15 years of wellness design, every
major challenge I’ve faced ties back to the quality of thermal and pool areas. Engaging a thermal MEP designer from the start is non-negotiable – it prevents costly mistakes and enhances the guest experience.”
Stay tuned for the next issue of Spa Business for a dedicated summary of the white paper and more commentary from Brown.
Making Waves contributors
■ Maud Bailly – Accor, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems.
■ Anne Becker Olins – Accor, global chief design and technical services o cer, Luxury.
■ Tal Danai – ArtLink, founder and creative director.
■ Don Genders – Design for Leisure, CEO and founder.
■ Bryan Green – Fitness Design Group, founder.
■ Harry Jameson – Pillar WellBeing, founder and CEO.
■ Josephine Leung – GOCO, MP.
■ Jo Littlefair – Goddard Littlefair, co-founder and director.
■ Camille Lopeo – Accor, VP, Emblems collection, Wellness and The Purist.
■ Oliver Patrick – Future Practice, co-founder.
■ Damien Perrot – Accor, global chief of design, technical services and innovation o cer of premium, midscale and economy brands.
■ Ingo Schweder – GOCO, founder and CEO.
■ Marie Soliman – Bergman Design House, founder and creative director.
■ Sonal Uberoi – Spa Balance Consulting, founder.
■ Agnès Roquefort – Accor, global CDO of luxury and lifestyle.
■ Ghislain Waeyaert – bbspa_Group, SVP global development. ● Click to download the report
■ Nao will launch in May and focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the ageing process
Longevity in focus
A new data-driven longevity spa is set to debut at Minos Palace Resort in May 2025
Minos Palace Resort in Crete is set to unveil a major new spa and longevity hub in May, as part of a €5 million (US$5.2 million, £4.2 million) resort-wide overhaul.
Situated on a private peninsula with expansive sea views, the 149-key adults-only resort will aim to redefine modern wellness by integrating cutting-edge science with ancient wisdom at its new spa retreat, Nao.
Inspired by water as the source of life and its ability to shapeshift, Nao has been designed as a hub for holistic longevity and deep transformation.
The facility will feature eight treatment rooms, a brain gym, a cryo chamber, meditation spaces and vibroacoustic lounger rooms. Additional amenities will include an infrared sauna, a vitality pool, hot and cold plunge baths, a PBM therapy room, a retail boutique, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas and a sensory tunnel experience.
Developed in collaboration with Moss Wellness Consultancy, Nao will follow an evidence-based approach targeting the 12 Hallmarks of Ageing, ranging from cellular senescence to mitochondrial dysfunction. Its methodology will be built on four core pillars: Nutrition, Sleep, Self-Mastery and Movement.
Customer journey
Guests at Nao will be able to choose from flexible programmes, ranging from one-day experiences to more
■ Highlights will include eight luxury treatment rooms, a brain gym, a cryo chamber, meditation spaces and vibroacoustic loungers
immersive two-week retreats. Those embarking on longer journeys will undergo comprehensive health assessments – both before arrival and during their stay – using advanced diagnostics to analyse key biomarkers.
Nao's prognostic and biometric testing will assess metabolic, heart, lung and cellular fitness, as well as VO2 max, HRV, body composition, epigenetics, stability, mobility and coordination.
These insights will inform personalised treatment protocols, including
Guests will be able to choose from flexible programmes, ranging from oneday experiences to more immersive two-week retreats
customised meal plans, sleep schedules, fitness regimens and mindfulness practices. Each programme will integrate advanced diagnostics, modern treatments and actionable lifestyle strategies to ensure guests leave feeling not only revitalised but equipped with the tools to sustain their transformation.
Alternatively, Nao will allow guests to book treatments à la carte from a menu divided into seven categories ranging from biometrics and facials to self mastery and functional movement. ●
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SUPPLIER NEWS
Suppliers tell Spa Business insider about their latest product, design and technology launches
■ 111Skin is a plastic-surgeon-led brand that offers a variety of spa treatments and at-home skincare and wellbeing products
Kim Kardashian’s private equity firm makes minority investment in 111Skin
111Skin has secured a significant minority investment from SKKY Partners, the consumer-focused private equity firm co-founded by celebrity and entrepreneur Kim Kardashian.
With the support of SKKY, 111Skin plans to strengthen its D2C business and expand its customer base in key markets, including North America and Asia. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.
The co-founders of 111Skin, Eva and Dr Yannis Alexandrides, will retain majority ownership and continue to lead the company alongside
CEO Vanessa Goddevrind and the rest of the management team.
Goddevrind said: “The SKKY team has tremendous experience working with distinctive, growthoriented brands. They share our drive for excellence.”
Founded in 2012 by plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr Yannis Alexandrides, 111Skin combines 20 years of surgical expertise with innovative delivery methods. The brand’s product line includes biocellulose face masks, along with a comprehensive range of skincare products, tools and supplements.
■ Vanessa Goddevrind, 111Skin CEO
111Skin has made significant advances in the spa market, recently reaching its 111th spa account. Its partner portfolio features luxury operators such as Mandarin Oriental, Rosewood, Accor and more.
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/5i2N0
111SKIN
SUPPLIER NEWS
Swissline takes over premium Zurich
day spa, Labo Spa
Professional Swiss skincare
and spa brand Swissline by Dermalab has announced the acquisition of Labo Spa – claimed to be Zurich’s original luxury day spa.
The 500sq m facility, established in 2005 by Carole Nicolas and Carine Langenskiöld, includes seven treatment rooms, a retail boutique,
■ Carole Nicolas, co-founder of Labo Spa
a hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber and relaxation areas.
“We’ve proudly operated our spa for 20 years and partnered with Swissline for 18 of them –a collaboration that has been truly perfect,” said Nicolas.
“This acquisition represents a natural progression for us. It also opens the door to innovation and presents an incredible opportunity to further develop and grow our company.”
Alongside the acquisition, Swissline will relocate its corporate headquarters from the district of Zollikon to an office above Labo Spa.
Swissline CEO, Christophe Lesueur, added: “We’re excited to welcome
Augustinus Bader partners with Corinthia London
Corinthia London has announced a new collaboration with science-backed skincare brand, Augustinus Bader, and introduced four exclusive signature treatments to its spa menu.
The rituals incorporate Augustinus Bader’s products and proprietary TFC8* cellular renewing technology, developed by Professor Augustinus Bader, a globally recognised biomedical scientist and physician specialising in regenerative skincare.
Bader’s products, which took 30 years to develop, were initially designed for medical use, particularly for treating skin burns sustained by firefighters to promote skin renewal.
Thomas Kochs, MD of Corinthia London, said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Augustinus Bader to our spa as a
■ Swissline will relocate its corporate HQ to an office space above Labo Spa
Labo Spa into the Swissline family. This acquisition is a natural step forward in our shared commitment to delivering exceptional skincare and wellness experiences.”
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/Y8I0Q
■ The spa menu now features Augustinus Bader rituals
new partner, to build upon our extensive spa menu. My team and I are excited to be evolving our spa product to remain innovative and deliver one of London’s most unique and diverse treatment offerings.”
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/N1b9m
Ashmira Botanica sets sights on EMEA expansion
Ashmira Botanica, a spa and beauty brand based in Britain, has announced its ambitions to expand in the EMEA region through new spa partnerships.
The brand’s core concept is rooted in the ancient philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which focuses on the Five Elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each customer’s journey is personalised by therapists who tailor treatments based on the client’s biorhythm (year of birth), skincare concerns, emotions and the season.
Currently, Ashmira Botanica collaborates with various spas worldwide. In an exclusive interview with Spa Business, Ashmira Botanica founder Tracey Smith expressed her desire to broaden the company’s reach in the EMEA region.
The brand’s newest launch is the 90-minute Sonic Energy Treatment designed to harmonise mind, body and spirit through soothing sounds, vibrations, a full-body mask and energetic healing.
■ Smith created the new ritual with her daughter http://lei.sr/p6d9T
Smith developed the experience – which marks the brand’s sixth professional wellness treatment –in collaboration with her daughter and established sound healing practitioner Harriet Emily, who has curated music to accompany the ritual.
MORE ON spa-kit.net
Alqvimia unveils perfume range inspired by Greek goddesses
Spanish aromatherapy spa and skincare brand Alqvimia has introduced Esprit de Parfum, a floral aromatherapy collection designed to elevate mood, enhance energy and promote self-awareness. The new range aligns with the brand’s growing emotional cosmetics category, offering a holistic approach to fragrance that resonates with both the wellness and beauty industries.
Inspired by the four archetypal goddesses – Athena, Hera, Aphrodite and Hecate – which symbolise different phases of the female cycle, Esprit de Parfum provides an olfactory experience that aligns with the lunar phases.
The collection was created by Alqvimia’s founder Idili Lizcano and invites consumers to embrace their inner wisdom, strength, sensuality and compassion through the power of scent.
Alqvimia says each of the four fragrances is crafted with highquality essential oils known for their aromatherapeutic properties – including rose, neroli, jasmine and geranium – making them ideal for spas and wellness centres looking to offer a mood-enhancing fragrance line in their retail area.
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/M8X2C
■ The brand has created four unique fragrances
Rest and repeat
Starpool is drawing on science, innovation and equilibrium to offer the industry’s leading recovery solutions
Starpool’s professional wellness offering is grounded in more than 50 years of experience in the pursuit of wellbeing through blending scientific innovation and technology. The company’s mission is to provide innovative solutions for both mental and physical recovery which underpin performance enhancement and promote a balanced lifestyle.
At the heart of Starpool’s philosophy lies the powerful triad of heat, water and rest. This unique combination not only supports mental health and overall wellbeing but also accelerates physical recovery, making it a cornerstone of Starpool’s wellness offerings.
Recovery in focus
In recent years, the understanding that recovery is as vital as physical exertion has reshaped the wellness landscape.
Starpool addresses this need with a comprehensive catalogue of high-end wellness solutions tailored for both professional athletes and individuals seeking an active lifestyle.
The company’s new Recovery Class concept is a pioneering format
inspired by collaborations with prestigious international sports teams, including the LA Rams, San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Braves. The innovative approach harnesses the body’s natural responses to heat, cold therapy and dry flotation, creating an optimal environment for postworkout recovery, warm-ups and active relaxation during rest days.
Developed by Starpool’s Scientific Research Department, Recovery Class enhances muscle recovery and athletic performance, making it ideal for integration into spas, wellness centres, fitness facilities and beyond.
Recovery in action
Starpool’s partnership with Healthfarm by Stilnuovo, a cutting-edge fitness centre in Florence, showcases its versatility and effectiveness. Healthfarm has seamlessly integrated Starpool’s formats into its programmes, enhancing both pre-workout activation and post-workout relaxation. For example, it uses infrared therapy for muscle relaxation
Starpool has transformed our vision, integrating a more holistic and scientific approach - Francesco Annunziata
complimented by Starpool’s Zerobody Dry Float for optimising concentration. In addition, Zerobody Cryo can be used for optimal muscle activation and performance enhancement.
Healthcarefarm can also support individuals with chronic conditions using infrared therapy for muscle activation and Zerobody Dry Float to reduce inflammation.
Francesco Annunziata, founder and CFO of Stilnuovo, said: “Starpool has transformed our vision, integrating a more holistic and scientific approach. Thanks to its innovations, we’ve redefined our future.”
Starpool prides itself on continuing to trailblaze with its evidence-backed solutions, always offering a complete 350-degree recovery journey.
More: www.starpool.com
spa-kit.net keyword: Starpool
PHOTO: STARPOOL/GAIA PANOZZO Starpool’s
lesmills.com/hotel-fitness-programs
WEB ADDRESS BOOK
Connect with spa organisations from around the world. We welcome your entries – write to spateam@leisuremedia.com
Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC)
■ www.apswc.org
Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA)
■ www.amspa.org.my
Australian Hot and Mineral Springs Alliance
■ www.bathing.org
Australasian Wellness Association (ASWELL)
■ https://aswell.au
Bali Spa and Wellness Association
■ www.balispawellness-association.org
Brazilian Esthetics & Spas Association
■ www.abesbrasil.com.br
Bulgarian Union for Balneology and Spa Tourism (BUBSPA)
■ www.bubspa.org
Association of Spas of the Czech Republic
■ www.jedemedolazni.cz
Estonian Spa Association
■ www.estonianspas.eu
European Historic Thermal Towns Association
■ www.historicthermaltowns.eu
European Spas Association
■ www.europeanspas.eu
Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT)
■ www.fht.org.uk
Federterme
■ www.federterme.it
FEMTEC (the World Federation of Hydrotherapy and Climatotherapy)
