Five questions to...Inshirah Alawi
Heavenly Beauty Salon & Spa, a project by three Emirati sisters and a fourth partner from Lebanon, opened recently on Dubai's Al Safa road.
The women-only spa and beauty getaway offers its clientele a host of female-friendly services, including private entrances and secluded luxury lounge rooms.
The women behind it say one of the reasons their spa concept is unique is because they have kept cultural sensitivities in mind while designing it.
The plan, they say, is to expand the concept in the country and then export it.
Officially opened last month, treatments include a variety of massages, slimming programmes and a host of beauty services.
Inshirah Alawi, one of the three sisters behind the concept spoke to Emirates Business about how, in an already crowded sector, she and her partners plan to stand out and grow the business.
Don't we already have enough spas in the city?
Well there is a distinct difference between spas and salons. There are many salons in the city and some spas, but very few places offer a combination of both.
Heavenly Salon and Spa is different. Our USP is 'value for money'. We are not located in a five-star hotel yet the combination of our services and the atmosphere matches, if not exceeds, what you would receive there.
We believe that beauty is not something superficial, not just something pretty to look at but a product of style and confidence and it comes from deep inside. Our target is to help our customers discover this new dimension that will not only make them feel and be beautiful but also special.
What is it about your spa concept that will ensure its longevity?
We understand that one does not get a second chance to make a first impression.
The longevity of such kind of business can only come from passion and professionalism and taking great joy in doing a good job will eventually see us to success.
What's unique about the spa and beauty industry in this country?
A beauty salon or a spa in other parts of the world could be considered a luxury. In the UAE, it is a necessity.
With a hectic lifestyle, whether you are working in an office or full time at home, we all need a break and time for ourselves. Where would it be more appropriate than at a spa?
There's been a number of new regulations on the spa and beauty industry, with some claiming that a cap has been put on number of licences issued. Do you think too much regulation could potentially hurt profits and then harm the industry?
Not really. We need to have regulations to ensure there is a common understanding that all should comply. To us, the regulations are nothing more than boundaries so that safety, hygiene and cultural norms are in sync.
Spas are like sanctuaries where people go to spend time for themselves, hence these areas should not be abused. Regulations are for the benefit of our customers and thus should be welcomed.
Where do you see your brand five years from now?
Five years from now, we see ourselves with multiple branches across the country, adding fitness to our portfolio and starting a men's spa as well.