Maintaining a fitness regime is no problem for guests staying in Burj Al Arab. The lavishly decorated, two-storey Assawan Spa and Health Club on the 18th level has everything, and more, that a fitness enthusiast could possibly need. Assawan also offers the ultimate in pampering treatments for those who prefer less strenuous pursuits. The spa is open 24 hours a day for the convenience of both hotel guests and club members.

Assawan's decor is reminiscent of the bathing pools of bygone times, while its range of treatments and products are drawn from all four corners of the globe. The large, circular reception area, decorated in relaxing green, white, red and black, is the hub from which all activity generates. Just off this area is the Spa's squash court. In keeping with Middle Eastern tradition, there are separate ladies' facilities as well as areas for men and women to exercise together. And, apart from the colour schemes - green and yellow in the mixed area, and mauve and pink for women -the facilities are identical.

The spa is on two levels. On the lower level are the changing rooms, which lead to the sauna, steam room and plunge pool and on to the exquisite indoor swimming pool. The pool is itself modeled on those of ancient Middle Eastern civilizations. Mosaic columns line the pool area which also includes a separate Jacuzzi and plenty of comfortable seating areas. The crowning glory of this luxury is, as you would expect, a breathtaking view.

On the upper level are five further rooms for hydrotherapy treatments. The gyms are located on the upper level. Large, airy, mirrored rooms boast the very latest in fitness equipment - from treadmills, bikes and step machines for aerobic exercise, to weight machines designed to tone every part of the body. Personal trainers are on hand to devise training programs to suit each guest's requirements.Once the guest has had their assessment, their personal profile is fed on to a smart card. As the guest moves around the gym, he or she slots the card into each piece of equipment.

The computer-controlled system then selects the correct level of exercise for each individual. Visitors using the gym have the choice of watching one of a bank of television screens, or enjoying the mesmerizing vistas out over the Gulf and back towards Dubai. Adjacent to the gyms are the aerobics rooms and the Assawan Spa's boutiques, which sell exclusive sportswear. For relaxation after a strenuous workout, guests can choose between the Assawan's two exclusive lounges.