Spa Resources International and Etihad Airways add a soothing touch to Abu Dhabi International Airport

Formalised in November 2007, the agreement was to see the Projects and Operations teams of Spa Resources International designing the concept, implementing and operating a unique, high quality spa for the Etihad Airways premium lounges in Terminal One, at Abu Dhabi airport.

'This collaboration between the two major figureheads of the Spa and airline industries respectively promises to produce a one-of-a-kind spa experience for the first class and business class customers of the national airline of the UAE,'

said Ms. Daniella Russell, Director of Wafi Health & Leisure, the parent group of Spa Resources International.

'We would like to take this opportunity to thank Etihad Airways for their extended support in facilitating our first UAE Airport Spa, having faith in our professional advice and recognising our expertise' she added.

Both the diamond first class lounge and the pearl business class lounge, opened in February and in May 2008 respectively, feature exclusive spas inside the lounges comprising of 5 and 6 treatment rooms and 2 experience showers each.

A 28-strong Spa Resources International staff team, handpicked from Indonesia, Nepal, Bulgaria, South Africa, Thailand, Philippines to give the experience a truly international feel, are dedicated to assist a projected 700 guests a day. The Spas will be open from 6 a.m. till 3 a.m. daily.

The Spas treatment menus have been developed by Spa Resources International in conjunction with La Gaia, an innovative company with a unique philosophy that uses a natural approach to health, beauty and wellbeing.

The treatments include back therapy, face reviving treatment, neck and shoulder recovery therapy and rejuvenating foot and leg massages. 'The treatments are designed to combat the stress of flights, including dehydration, immobility, air conditioning environment and time zone changes.

In simple words, we aimed to create the ambience where Etihad Airways guests can relax before they take off, or rejuvenate after they have landed through two dedicated spas; one for the first class travellers and the other for the business class travellers' said Ms. Russell. The 4 signature treatments offered by each spa are designed to create the normal effect of a spa deep relaxation treatment in a limited time period.

The spas will form an important part of the multi-million dollar re-design and refurbishment of the Etihad Airways Premium Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport.