Qatari developer Msheireb Properties has appointed spa retreat pioneer Chiva-Som to operate Zulal Wellness Resort, a new wellness destination in the private coastal region of Khasooma set for completion by Q2 2021.

Spanning over 280,000m2, with architecture echoing the local vernacular, the estate will comprise a 120-key Family Wellness Resort as well as an adjacent adults-only Wellness Resort featuring 60 suites and villas. It will offer therapeutic and lifestyle enhancement treatments based on traditional Arabic and Islamic wellness principles, and will be home to the first hub for Traditional Arabic Islamic Medicine – a 360-degree approach to healing sourced from Islamic medicinal historians and herbalists and reflective, mind-body therapy.

Translating to “purified water”, Zulal is inspired by people’s historic journeys across the Arabian Peninsula in search of water, the seed-of-life – a concept that encapsulates the history, culture and heritage of Qatar. As such, landscaping will incorporate ponds and water features arranged around a series of shaded, walled gardens; a narrative that takes cues from memories of sea-bound travellers finding shelter in local villages.

Staying true to the core values of Chiva-Som, the wellness destination will also operate sustainably and adhere to environmentally friendly practices, using locally sourced and developed products where possible.