You’re lying on a warm table, soft music playing, the scent of lavender in the air. You’ve booked your first full body massage in Dubai-maybe after a long workweek, or just because you deserve it. But then it hits you: Do I take my clothes off for a full body massage? You’re not alone. This question crosses the mind of nearly every first-timer. And the truth? It’s simpler than you think.
Short Answer: You Decide
There’s no universal rule. You keep on whatever makes you comfortable. Most people remove clothing down to their underwear-some go completely nude. The therapist will leave the room while you undress and will cover you with a towel or sheet at all times. Only the part being worked on is exposed. Your comfort isn’t optional-it’s the foundation of the whole experience.
What Actually Happens During a Full Body Massage?
A full body massage isn’t about exposure. It’s about release. The therapist works on your back, shoulders, legs, arms, feet, and sometimes head and neck. They use oil or lotion to reduce friction and help their hands glide smoothly. The key? Draping. That’s the term professionals use for the technique of covering you with a sheet or towel.
Here’s how it works: You lie face down, fully covered. The therapist lifts just enough of the sheet to access your lower back. They work for five minutes, then cover you again. Then they move to your legs. Then your arms. Each area is treated in isolation. You’re never exposed. Not even a little.
Think of it like a blanket fort you never have to leave. The therapist is trained to respect your privacy. They’ve seen it all. They don’t care if you’re nervous, hairy, scarred, or self-conscious. Their job is to help you relax-not judge you.
Why People Choose to Go Nude
Some people opt to go completely nude-not because they want to, but because it feels better. When you wear underwear, especially cotton, it can bunch up, dig into your skin, or get soaked with oil. That’s distracting. It breaks the flow.
Also, therapists need direct skin contact to apply pressure properly. A thin pair of shorts or bikini can block the effectiveness of deep tissue work on your glutes or lower back. If you’re getting a Thai massage or sports massage, this matters even more.
But here’s the thing: you don’t need to go nude to get results. Most spa treatments in Dubai work perfectly fine with underwear on. You’ll still feel the tension melt from your shoulders. Your knots will still loosen. Your breathing will still slow down.
What to Wear: Underwear Options That Work
If you’re not ready to go nude, here’s what most people in Dubai actually wear:
- Boxers or briefs - simple, low-rise, no tags. Avoid thick cotton; it absorbs oil and feels heavy.
- Swimwear - bikini bottoms or trunks. Fine for casual spas, but not ideal for deep work.
- Disposable paper underwear - some high-end spas in Jumeirah or Downtown Dubai offer these. They’re thin, biodegradable, and designed to be worn under the sheet. No mess, no stress.
Pro tip: Bring your own clean, soft underwear. Don’t rely on the spa to provide them unless they specifically say so. Most places don’t.
What to Expect When You Arrive
When you walk into a spa in Dubai-whether it’s at Atlantis, One&Only, or a quiet corner spot in Al Barsha-you’ll be greeted with calm lighting and quiet music. You’ll be asked to fill out a short form: any injuries? allergies? medical conditions? Then you’ll be shown to a private room.
The therapist will knock before entering. They’ll ask if you’d like music, lighting, or temperature adjusted. Then they’ll say: “I’ll give you a few minutes to get comfortable. I’ll be back in a moment.” That’s your cue. They’ll leave the room. You undress. You get under the sheet. You breathe.
When they return, they won’t look at you. They won’t comment. They’ll just say, “Ready when you are,” and begin. You don’t have to say anything. You don’t have to explain yourself. This isn’t a performance. It’s a reset.
Spa Etiquette in Dubai: What’s Normal?
Dubai has a mix of international visitors and local residents. Many expats come from cultures where nudity in massage is common. Others come from places where it’s taboo. The spa industry here is built for both.
Most reputable spas in Dubai have clear policies:
- Therapists are trained in professional boundaries.
- Privacy is non-negotiable.
- There’s no pressure to undress.
- Staff are instructed to ask, not assume.
At luxury resorts, you’ll often find a small card on your table with options: “I’d like to be fully covered,” “I’m comfortable with underwear,” or “I prefer to be nude.” You just check one. No talking required.
What About Men? What About Women?
Gender doesn’t change the rules. But it does change the options.
Men: Most men wear briefs or boxers. Some go nude. If you’re getting a massage for back pain or sports recovery, going nude can improve results-but only if you’re comfortable.
Women: Many women choose to wear a bra and underwear. But bras can dig into your shoulders and trap oil. Some women opt for a sports bra, others for a bikini top. Others go nude. Again-no right answer. Only what feels right for you.
One thing to know: in Dubai, same-gender therapists are standard unless you request otherwise. If you’re a woman, you’ll usually be matched with a female therapist. Men with male therapists. This isn’t a rule-it’s a comfort measure. And it’s respected.
What If I’m Nervous?
It’s okay. Really.
Most people feel awkward the first time. Even people who get massages every week. That’s normal. The therapist knows. They’ve been there. They don’t expect you to be relaxed right away. They expect you to be human.
If you’re shaking, sweating, or just not sure what to do-say it. Just say: “I’m a little nervous about this.” That’s all. They’ll pause. They’ll explain again. They’ll make you feel safe.
There’s no shame in keeping your underwear on. No shame in asking for a thicker sheet. No shame in saying, “Can we start with just my back today?”
Cost and Booking: What’s Typical in Dubai?
Full body massages in Dubai range from AED 180 to AED 650, depending on location and duration.
- Basic spa (Al Quoz, Deira): AED 180-250 for 60 minutes. Often includes steam room access.
- Luxury resort (Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach): AED 450-650. May include tea, robes, and private changing areas.
- Medical or sports massage: AED 300-500. Requires a therapist with clinical training.
Book online. Most spas let you choose your therapist’s gender and specify your comfort level in the booking form. You don’t need to call. Just check the box: “I prefer to keep underwear on.” That’s it.
Comparison: Full Body Massage vs. Thai Massage in Dubai
| Feature | Full Body Massage | Thai Massage |
|---|---|---|
| What to wear | Underwear or nude (towel draping) | Loose, comfortable clothing (no oil used) |
| Oil or lotion | Yes | No |
| Pressure level | Light to deep | Medium to firm |
| Body movement | You lie still | Therapist moves you like yoga |
| Best for | Relaxation, stress relief | Flexibility, energy flow |
| Typical price (60 min) | AED 180-650 | AED 200-400 |
Thai massage is a great alternative if you’re unsure about nudity. You wear loose pants and a t-shirt. No oil. No sheets. Just you, the mat, and the therapist guiding your body through stretches. It’s active, not passive. And you never have to take anything off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take my clothes off for a full body massage?
No. You never have to take your clothes off. Most people wear underwear, and that’s completely fine. The therapist will work around it. Your comfort comes first.
Will the therapist judge me if I’m not toned or have body hair?
Absolutely not. Therapists work with all body types, all skin conditions, all levels of fitness. Their training is about technique, not appearance. If you’re worried, just say so-they’ll put you at ease.
Can I keep my bra on during a massage?
Yes, but it might get in the way. Bras can press into your shoulders and upper back, making it harder to release tension. If you’re getting a deep shoulder or neck massage, removing your bra (or switching to a soft sports bra) helps. But if you’re not ready, just say so. The therapist will adjust.
Is it weird to fall asleep during a massage?
It’s the best compliment you can give. Falling asleep means your body trusts the space. Therapists love it. They’ll work extra gently around you. It’s not rude-it’s a sign you’re finally letting go.
What if I get an erection during the massage?
It happens. It’s a physical reaction to relaxation, not attraction. Therapists are trained to ignore it. They’ll keep working. If you’re embarrassed, just breathe. It’s normal. No one thinks less of you for it.
Can I request a therapist of a specific gender?
Yes. In Dubai, most spas let you choose when you book. You can even ask for someone with experience working with nervous clients. Just say it in the notes when you book online.
Final Thought: This Is Your Space
A full body massage isn’t about what you’re wearing. It’s about what you’re letting go of. The stress. The noise. The constant pressure to be someone else. You don’t need to be perfect to deserve this. You don’t need to be brave. You just need to show up.
Take your clothes off-or don’t. It’s your body. Your rules. Your peace.
Ready to breathe again? Book your session. You’ve earned it.
