From longevity partnerships and performance-led footwear to the rise of wellness real estate and a new wave of immersive travel.
Jay Shetty joins IM8
Prenetics Global Limited, parent company of IM8—the premium health and longevity brand co-founded with David Beckham—has announced a multi-year global partnership with Jay Shetty. The New York Times bestselling author, On Purpose podcast host, and now Global Ambassador of IM8—its first from outside sport—will work with IM8’s Scientific Advisory Board on consumer education spanning foundational nutrition, sleep, and longevity. Shetty, who discovered the brand through his doctor and has been a regular user for over a year, joins a roster of stakeholders including Beckham, NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, tennis champion Aryna Sabalenka, Formula 1 driver Ollie Bearman, and Inter Miami CF, which holds NIL rights for four players, including Lionel Messi.
New Balance launches UAE-exclusive sneaker
Mark your calendar for May 22. New Balance introduces the 1080v15 – an UAE-exclusive inspired by the communities that shape the energy, movement, and life across the country. The latest drop reflects the brand’s Run Your Way philosophy of movement being personal, inclusive, and on your own terms. Since establishing its Middle East subsidiary in 2019, New Balance has built its presence in the UAE through grassroots participation, run clubs, local storytelling, and long-term cultural engagement. The 1080v15 arrives in a clean white upper, finished with red and green detailing on the heel and lace tips.
Limited quantities until stock lasts. Priced at AED 899, available at select stores in Dubai (City Walk, Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills, City Centre Mirdif) and Abu Dhabi (Yas Mall, Marina Mall, and The Galleria).
Wellness real estate is the fastest-growing wellness sector
The Global Wellness Institute’s latest report projects wellness real estate market at $1.8 trillion globally by 2030. The UAE and the Netherlands are amongst the top 15 markets, with the UAE’s market size (2025) at $15B and the Netherlands at $13B – the United States taking the lead at $254B. The latest case study of wellness real estate projects across Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates details key takeaways. Expo City uses nature and culture to make a large city feel grounded and familiar; Aldar Square HQ turns the workplace into a more open, welcoming space where people feel comfortable and included, while Ghaf Woods stands out for its forest-living concept, making it part of how people live, move, and breathe within the community. Download the free report here.
Introducing Preferred Wellbeing
Preferred Hotels & Resorts is redefining wellness hospitality as immersive, transformational travel rather than your traditional spa escape. The brand’s recent Luxury Travel Report shows luxury travellers increasingly seek a deep reset—disconnection from digital noise and meaningful restoration. Across its portfolio, this translates into biohacking and mindfulness at Amrit Ocean Resort, neurostimulation at Hotel Las Islas, and traditional healing such as Balinese jamu and hammam reinterpreted with science at The Meru Sanur and Almar Giardino di Costanza. Water-led therapies at 7132 Hotel and Grand Velas Riviera Maya, alongside nature immersion at Corcovado Wilderness Lodge and Post Ranch Inn.