It is no wonder why the Waldorf Astoria RAS AL KHAIMAH in the UAE was awarded 2015 Top Hotels with Exceptional Service of the United Arab Emirates-Trip Advisor Travelers Choice. The SPA is SPA-tacular! The atmosphere is so peaceful and tranquil that I felt like a beautiful pearl oyster of the deep blue sea. Guests can relax, retreat and rejuvenate. The Waldorf Astoria SPA @ RAK holds 12 treatment rooms that offer a full range of services for your pampering needs. What a fabulous way to relieve yourself of life’s daily stress through detox and by replenishing one’s self in a place the feels and looks like paradise. The Waldorf Astoria SPA @ RAK is not only lavishing, but resonates opulence. Among the services you can expect range from massages, skin renewal services to a “private spa suite,” which are also available for those who want to make the experience personal. It is ideal for honeymooners, anniversary celebration or just some alone time. Waldorf Astoria Spa can accommodate your every desires.
During my stay at the Waldorf Astoria in Ras Al Khaimah I received a tour of the beautiful hotel grounds; of course the spa was my favorite attraction. There were a plethora of beauty rituals and treatments that were available to me. As the beauty editor, it was my assignment to experience the spa and report back to our readers. I was introduced to the spa manager, Elena Moiseeva, who was very helpful. I explained to Elena that my skin was dry from the brutal winter that we experienced in my home town of New York and Philadelphia; it was dull and seemed very dry, fatigue, with some occasional breakouts from flying. She recommended the iQMS Medi Cosmetics System. We all know what long flights will do to our skin and I just needed to look fresh, bright and replenished. iQMS did just that. My esthetician came to greet me and escorted me back to the changing room to get prepared. When I slipped into my plush robe and slippers I knew some magic was about to take place. The aroma and atmosphere was a sedative for the soul. Just what I needed.
The treatment began with a cleansing, removing the make-up and buildup that I had encounter throughout the day. After the cleansing he used a gauze which looked like a cotton tablet and wiped my skin then immersed it into this solution that would determine what my skin needed more or less of. Talk about a deeply researched product! When the tablet expanded it opened up to a mask. The mask was applied, then a solution was poured over my entire face (except my nostrils and lips). Usually when you’re waiting for the mask to get firm you feel like your treatment is about to be over. That surely was not the case. You get a massage from the neck, shoulders and de’collete’. After the mask was removed I felt the difference in my skin. Before I looked in the mirror the experience itself made me feel radiant. My skin was so dewy and moist it felt as amazing as it looked. I was so pleased with the results. While my facial may have been completed, the service didn’t quite end. I was then escorted to the relaxation room for a nice cup of tea and refreshments. I didn’t want to leave to say the least.
The iQMS Cosmetic Systems facial was the ultimate experience. Most facials require the esthetician probing and extractions from your skin. iQMS treatment produced the same results without any of the discomfort. No redness or tenderness. I didn’t even have to apply make-up that evening for my night about town. I have maintained my moist and dewy glow. I recommend this for all skin types.
The facial was extremely luxurious and calming so much so that I thought it was a massage! The treatment mask is incredible. iQMS Cosmetic Systems delivered. Elena was on point with this product. My skin feels, appears so illuminating, dewy and supple. Everyone continues to compliment me on my “glow.” If you’re in the UAE or plan on visiting the region, Ras Al Khaimah, this relatively young, unknown UAE city to the masses, please visit the Waldorf Astoria SPA the beautiful pearl of the sea is a must do. You won’t be disappointed.

Kheli French is a contributing beauty editor for World Bride Magazine. Kheli is a licensed cosmetologist, colorist, master hair cutter, certified instructor and CFO co-owner of AMF HAIR EXTENSIONS. Kheli’s mantra is “What makes hair different is the texture. Hair works on memory, it can be trained to do whatever you want it to.”
Kheli has worked with a plethora of women and men all over the world, which is displayed on the cover of Iman’s The Beauty of Color. During NYC MBFW, Kheli stunned the audience when model Karolina Korkova hit the runway for designer Atil Kutoglu. Kheli gave the femme fatale rapper Charli Baltimore her signature red hair (Cherri Charli), which inspired the look for Jennifer Garner’s character for ABC’s thriller drama series “Alias.” This Philadelphia native is the owner/stylist of Le’ PINK Champu located in the swanky Manayunk.
In 2010, Kheli French won “Best of Philly” from Philadelphia Magazine:
When a Vera Wang model needs an updo, a Victoria’s Secret catwalker requires blowing-out, or Lil’ Kim, Anita Baker, Selita Ebanks or Lauryn Hill needs natural-looking extensions, a splash of color or an amazing cut, they come to Kheli (or Kheli goes to them). No wonder: From her salon’s two-year-old Manayunk location, she modestly works magic on any kind of hair for clients that walk through the door. That is, when she’s back from Fashion Week. Read more at Phillymag.com here.