top of page

The 3 Fitness Studios I Swear By in Dubai

Writer: Molly Johannsen
Molly Johannsen
Aug 17
3 min read

Okay... enough marketing for one week.

Over the past few years, I've tried my fair share of fitness studios across Dubai, and today I'm sharing the three that I keep coming back to time and time again.


Whether you're looking for an intense strength session, a heated workout that'll leave you dripping in sweat, or a Pilates class that makes you feel amazing afterwards, I've got you covered.

For me, fitness isn't just about staying in shape anymore. It's become part of my routine, something that keeps me feeling good both physically and mentally. It's my reset button, and honestly, I don't think I'd be without it now.

One thing I've realised about myself is that I'll choose a fitness class over a traditional gym session almost every single time.

Why? Because I don't have to think.

For the next 45 to 60 minutes, someone else is in charge. I can switch my brain off, follow the instructor, work as hard as I can, and leave feeling like a completely different person. There's no planning my workout or wondering what exercise comes next. I simply turn up, give it my all, and enjoy the process.

After living in Dubai for the past few years, I've tried quite a few different studios. Some have become one-time visits, while others have earned a permanent place in my weekly routine. If I had to narrow it down to my top three, these would be them.

Platform Studios, Dubai Hills

If I disappear for 45 minutes, there's a very good chance you'll find me here.

Platform has become my absolute go-to fitness studio. The atmosphere is brilliant, the coaches are fantastic, and every class feels like you're working towards something.

My favorites are the Strength and Run classes, and whilst they're definitely challenging, that's exactly why I keep going back. Every session pushes me that little bit further, and I always leave feeling stronger, more energised, and ready to take on the rest of my day.


It's one of those places where you walk out exhausted, but somehow with more energy than when you walked in.

DRYP, Dubai Marina

If you've never tried a heated workout before, prepare yourself.

The first class is definitely an experience, but once you've done one, you'll completely understand the hype.

I usually book into DRYP Tone, and it absolutely lives up to its name. It's one of the best full-body workouts I've done, and every class leaves me feeling like I've worked muscles I didn't even know existed.

I normally visit about once a week to mix things up, and I genuinely look forward to it every time. Yes, it's hot. Yes, you'll sweat more than you thought was possible. But you'll leave feeling incredible.

Revive Pilates

Revive Pilates is where my love for Reformer Pilates really began, so this studio will always have a special place in my heart.

The space itself is beautiful. It's calm, welcoming, and instantly makes you feel relaxed the moment you walk through the door.

The classes are controlled, challenging, and surprisingly tough. Pilates has helped me build strength in a completely different way, and every class reminds me that you don't always need high-impact workouts to feel the benefits.

I always leave feeling stronger, more balanced, and just generally better than when I arrived.

Dubai has no shortage of incredible fitness studios, and there are still plenty on my list that I'd love to try.

But these three have become my favorites because they each give me something completely different. Platform pushes me, DRYP challenges me, and Revive helps me slow things down while building strength in a different way.

Fitness has become so much more than exercise for me. It's part of my routine, part of how I look after my mental health, and one of the best ways I know to reset after a busy week.

So if you're looking for a new class to try this summer, I'd genuinely recommend starting with one of these.

And if you think I've missed a hidden gem, let me know. I'm always looking for my next favourite workout.

Comments


bottom of page