Explore the world’s most game-changing wellness resorts and residences

The global wellness industry is reshaping the future of hospitality and real estate, with dozens of new luxury resorts, residential communities and longevity-focused developments set to open over the next few years, Forbes reported.

Citing findings from the 2026 Global Wellness Summit’s Global Glimpse survey, the publication highlighted 33 major wellness projects under development across the Middle East, North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America.

The report noted that wellness is no longer confined to spa treatments and holiday retreats. Instead, developers are increasingly integrating health, recovery, preventive care and longevity into residential communities, urban developments and mixed-use projects.

According to Forbes, the shift reflects growing demand for wellness-oriented lifestyles and preventive healthcare experiences. The Global Wellness Institute estimates the global wellness economy reached $6.8 trillion in 2024 and could expand to $9.8 trillion by 2029.

Middle East emerges as a wellness hotspot

Saudi Arabia and the UAE feature prominently among the projects identified by the survey, underscoring the region’s ambition to become a leading wellness destination.

Among the notable developments is Equinox Resort and Residences AMAALA on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, which combines luxury hospitality with fitness, recovery and longevity-focused programmes.

Another major project is Clinique La Prairie Health Resort AMAALA, bringing the Swiss wellness brand’s expertise in diagnostics, preventive health and personalised longevity treatments to the kingdom.

Dubai also features strongly in the list. Eywa, The Tree of Life Tower is being developed as a wellness-focused residential tower inspired by nature and biophilic design, while Émerge Residences by Elysian will include amenities such as cold-plunge pools, outdoor saunas and longevity therapies.

One of the city’s most ambitious projects is Therme Dubai, expected to become the world’s tallest wellness resort. Scheduled to open in 2028, the development will feature thermal pools, saunas, botanical gardens and wellness-focused attractions spread across a massive complex.

The UAE is also home to SHA Wellness Residences Emirates in AlJurf, Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina, Longevity Island in Abu Dhabi, The Wilds by Aldar in Dubai and the AMRA Integrative Wellness Resort in Umm Al Quwain.

Wellness moves into everyday living

Forbes reported that many of the upcoming projects are focused on creating communities where wellness becomes part of daily life rather than an occasional luxury experience.

Examples include Tri Vananda in Phuket, Thailand, a residential wellness community developed in partnership with Clinique La Prairie, and Elysium Fields in Melbourne, Australia, which aims to create a health-focused residential environment centred on longevity and recovery.

In New York, Atria at One High Line plans to incorporate preventive medicine, diagnostic services and wellness facilities within a luxury residential setting.

Similarly, Velvære in Park City, Utah, combines luxury mountain homes with biohacking, integrative medicine and wellness programmes designed to promote long-term health.

Luxury brands expand wellness portfolios

Several luxury hospitality brands are expanding their wellness offerings through new resorts and branded residences.

These include Aman Miami Beach in Florida, Aman Beverly Hills in California, Six Senses Comporta in Portugal, Six Senses Tel Aviv in Israel and Lefay Wellness Residences on Italy’s Lake Garda.

Equinox is also extending its footprint through projects in Saudi Arabia and Anguilla, while Canyon Ranch is set to launch a new wellness resort in Austin, Texas.

Future of wellness development

The survey also highlighted ambitious projects beyond traditional resorts.

Among them is Gelephu Mindfulness City in Bhutan, a large-scale development focused on sustainability, wellness and spirituality. Another notable project is The Nest of Humanity in Mexico, a regenerative community designed around longevity, wellbeing and social connection.

Forbes noted that wellness-focused real estate is increasingly moving into the mainstream, with developers incorporating health, recovery and preventive care into residential and hospitality projects at various price points.

As wellness becomes a central element of urban planning, tourism and real estate investment, the next generation of luxury developments is expected to focus not only on comfort and leisure but also on helping residents and visitors improve their long-term health and quality of life.