Thai vs Swedish vs Deep Tissue vs Hot Stone: Which Massage to Book
A side-by-side guide to every massage type, what each is for and what it costs at home in Dubai.
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For relaxation, book a Swedish massage. For stubborn knots, deep tissue. For stiffness without oil, Thai. For deep relief without firm pressure, hot stone. For a mix of everything, Balinese. For training recovery, sports massage. At home in Dubai with Zigy, 60-minute prices run from AED 135 for Swedish to AED 239 for hot stone.
Massage Types Side by Side
| Type | Pressure | Oil? | Best for | 60 min (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish | Light to medium | Yes | Relaxation, first massage, sleep | 135 |
| Thai | Medium to firm | No, clothed | Stiffness, mobility | 160 |
| Deep tissue | Firm, slow | Yes | Chronic knots, desk-job tension | 180 |
| Sports | Firm, brisk | Yes | Training recovery | 195 |
| Aromatherapy | Medium | Essential oils | Stress, calm mood | 199 |
| Balinese | Medium to firm | Yes | Stretching plus pressure points | 229 |
| Hot stone | Light to medium, with heat | Yes | Deep relief without firm pressure | 239 |
Choose by What You Want
"I just want to relax."
Swedish. Long, flowing strokes at a comfortable pressure. The best first massage. See our Swedish massage guide.
"My shoulders are rock hard."
Deep tissue. Slow, firm pressure into knots, with some soreness the next day. Read does deep tissue massage hurt?.
"I feel stiff, and I don't like oil."
Thai. You stay clothed and the therapist stretches you. See Thai massage: what to wear.
"Firm pressure makes me tense up."
Hot stone. Heat does the work instead of force. See the hot stone massage guide.
"I train hard."
Sports massage, from AED 195. Brisk and firm, focused on the muscles you use.
"I'm stressed and can't switch off."
Aromatherapy. Medium pressure with essential oils chosen for calm. See the aromatherapy massage guide.
How Long Should You Book?
60 minutes is enough for a relaxing full-body massage or one focus area. 90 minutes gives time for both, and is the best value per minute for most styles. 120 minutes suits a slow, unhurried treatment.
Safety for Every Type
Our massage services are not suitable during pregnancy, after recent surgery, or with a sprain or serious injury. Hot stone and deep tissue need extra care with circulation problems, diabetes or blood thinners; ask your doctor.
Book
All styles are available on the home massage in Dubai page, with male therapists on the men's menu. For every duration and couples price, see the price guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most relaxing type of massage?
Swedish massage is usually the most relaxing, with light to medium pressure and long, flowing strokes. Hot stone is a close second.
Which massage is best for back pain from sitting?
Deep tissue massage is the usual choice for tight shoulders and lower back from desk work. Thai massage helps if you feel stiff rather than sore.
Which massage does not use oil?
Thai massage. You stay in loose clothes throughout.
What is the difference between Swedish and deep tissue massage?
Swedish uses lighter, flowing strokes for relaxation. Deep tissue uses slow, firm pressure on specific knots and can leave you sore the next day.
What is the cheapest full-body massage at home in Dubai?
A 60-minute Swedish massage at AED 135 with Zigy.
All You Need, All in One Place
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