Can you really embark upon a spiritual reset in Dubai?

Dubai may appear spiritual to outsiders, but for a long-time resident of the UAE, it offers a range of practices to deepen one's spiritual connection. After a stressful start to the year, the author decided to spend the summer in Dubai and attend a weekend wellness retreat at JA Hatta Fort Hotel in Hatta. The hotel, a rustic mountain-style venue, houses various animals and offers a peaceful setting.

Upon arrival, guests received early access to their rooms and were provided with two pools for use during the retreat. The weekend began with a hatha yoga session conducted by guide Tania, who made the practice accessible to all skill levels. Later, the group enjoyed dinner at Jeema restaurant and engaged in metaphorical card reading, a therapeutic practice that uses images, symbols, and words for personal growth and reflection.

This was the first time the author experienced this unique form of therapy, which proved to be emotional and insightful.

On the second day, participants engaged in family constellation therapy, a psychological technique developed by Bert Hellinger to address family dynamics and intergenerational trauma. After sharing personal stories and participating in group exercises, the retreat concluded with a peaceful walk around the property, reflecting on the experiences shared.

For the author, the spiritual reset was genuine, with practices like yoga, meditation, and metaphorical card reading providing significant relief from stress. The only regret was not bringing their dog, Kira, as the property is pet-friendly. The two-day retreat, priced at Dh800 per person for shared rooms or Dh950 for single occupancy, offers a holistic experience, with guided wellness sessions and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.