Book a Thai massage if you want firm compression and assisted stretching while you stay fully clothed, with no oil. Book an oil massage if you want long, slow strokes with warm oil and a smoother, more continuous rhythm. At Chiang Mai both start at 60 minutes: Thai massage from AED 250 and oil massage from AED 270.
What is Thai massage (nuad thai)?
Thai massage, called nuad thai in Thailand, is a traditional practice of compression, rhythmic rocking and assisted stretch. It is done without oil, on a mat, while you wear loose cotton clothing that we supply. In December 2019 UNESCO added nuad thai to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
What is an oil massage?
An oil massage uses long, slow strokes with warm oil. It is the most-booked treatment at Chiang Mai. The aroma massage follows the same sequence with an aromatic oil blend and a lighter hand, and is often chosen for evening slots.
How do they compare?
Thai massage
- Oil: none
- What you wear: loose cotton clothing, supplied
- Main techniques: compression, rhythmic rocking and assisted stretching, on a mat
- Feel: firm and active; the therapist moves you through stretches
- At Chiang Mai: 60 min AED 250, 90 min AED 350, 120 min AED 480
Oil massage
- Oil: warm oil
- What you wear: your therapist will explain what to change into
- Main techniques: long, slow strokes
- Feel: smooth and continuous
- At Chiang Mai: 60 min AED 270, 90 min AED 370, 120 min AED 500
Which one should I choose?
- Choose Thai massage if you like stretching, prefer to stay clothed, or do not want oil on your skin.
- Choose oil massage if you want something slower and smoother. For a lighter, scented version, choose the aroma massage (60 min, AED 330).
- Want firmer pressure with oil? The deep tissue massage works firmly and slowly through the deeper layers (60 min, AED 330).
- Short on time? The back massage (30 min) and the head, neck and shoulder treatment (30 min, seated and fully clothed) are AED 180 each, as is foot reflexology (40 min).
What should I wear for a Thai massage?
You do not need to bring anything. Loose cotton clothing is supplied for Thai massage. Showers, lockers and bath towels are included with every massage.
How long should I book?
Sixty minutes is a good first booking for either massage. Thai massage moves through the whole body, so many guests who enjoy it go on to book 90 or 120 minutes.
Who will do my massage?
Chiang Mai has eight therapists, every one trained in Thailand, with between 10 and 26 years of practice each and 152 years between them.
Quick answers
Is Thai massage painful?
It should feel firm, not painful. Tell your therapist if the pressure is too much and they will adjust it.
Can women book a Thai massage?
Yes. Massages are for adults, men and women.
Can I walk in?
Walk-ins are welcome when a therapist is free. Booking online confirms your slot instantly, and same-day bookings are usually available.
