Athletic-minded travelers check into central Dubai’s SIRO One Za’abeel to partake in a workout hub complete with specialized training zones, cutting-edge treatments grounded in science, and customized, balanced meals.
Revolving around the five biohacking pillars of fitness, recovery, nutrition, mindfulness, and sleep, SIRO is an immersive lifestyle destination that elevates the concept of wellbeing.
The light-filled guestrooms were crafted to promote restful slumber and help combat jet lag
It’s the bold vision of Kerzner International, the developer and operator behind the luxe Atlantis and One&Only brands, including fellow buzzy Dubai getaways Atlantis, the Royal; Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort; and the One&Only urban outpost also found at the futuristic, two-tower One Za’abeel development designed by Tokyo-based Nikken Sekkei.
“At SIRO One Za’abeel, we redefine wellness by integrating a holistic approach to its design, focusing on the complete wellbeing of its guests—physically, mentally, and emotionally,” says Sara Felch, Kerzner International’s vice president of design and technical services. “The hotel’s design philosophy centers on creating spaces that act as supportive environments rather than prescriptive ones, encouraging guests to experience their own journey of relaxation, recovery, and rejuvenation.”
For the inaugural location of SIRO (one in Montenegro is soon to open, followed by properties in Los Cabos, Mexico and Riyadh), local studio LW Design Group strove to elicit an aura of “dynamic harmony—a blend of energizing vibrancy and serene tranquility,” says Pooja Shah-Mulani, partner and design director. “The design intentionally reflects this duality, offering spaces that inspire both active engagement and peaceful retreat.”
Dubbed the collective, amphitheater-style seating in the lobby is a place for meetings, work, and more
Visitors are first struck by a 3D piece from Swiss artist Roman Bratschi in the lobby, which “discards the conventional front desk for a stone coffee counter, aptly named the Starting Block, fostering spontaneous guest interactions,” explains Shah-Mulani. “Artist James Clar’s light installations further set the stage, exploring the nexus of technology and movement.” Smoothie cravings are sated at the Refuel Bar, done up in bronze, Nordic Grey stone, and twisting linear lighting from Milan’s Morghen Studio, and impromptu meetings happen in the patch of amphitheater-style seating dubbed the collective.
State-of-the-art fitness equipment and group classes also await on the bustling 30th floor, an invigorating alternative to the relaxing 31st that illuminates the likes of innovative vibroacoustic and electric muscle stimulation therapies. These two levels, transformed from existing One&Only guestrooms, presented structural hurdles for LW Design Group.
By collaborating with Nikken Sekkei and WSP engineering consultants, Shah-Mulani and her team were able to insert a centerpiece sculptural spiral staircase linking the two disparate levels that “stands as a symbol of the continuous flow” between them, she points out. It is bolstered by reflective finishes, dynamic lighting, and digital screens to disguise the height limitations.
The Fitness Lab on Level 31 includes pilates studios
Throughout the hotel, designers opted for materials that promote health and calm, such as light oak cladding and textured tiles. “Black metal detailing and signature green accents add a touch of sophistication,” says Shah-Mulani, while furniture, like the Gravity and CirC+ massage chairs, reinforce the notion of rejuvenation.
The 132 soundproof guestrooms, their floor-to-ceiling windows magnifying city views, promote restful slumber and help combat jet lag in the process. They also showcase SIRO’s commitment to holistic wellness through perks like comfortable, extra-long beds with cooling mattresses, agility ladders, and meditation playlists. Minimalist luxury is at the core of these airy lairs, adds Shah-Mulani. “Bush-hammered serpentine marble flooring paired with warm plaster walls create a restorative atmosphere.”
This design approach emphasizes adaptability and comfort, “resulting in a dynamic and interactive space that not only supports relaxation and recovery but also fosters a sense of community and connection among guests, distinguishing SIRO One Za’abeel as a leader in wellness hospitality,” adds Felch.
This article originally appeared in HD’s September 2024 issue.
