As wellness continues to take centre stage, the consistency and quality of sleep are becoming increasingly important in balancing the demands of fast-paced environments often associated with urban lifestyles in the GCC. To uncover more specific insights, Four Seasons recently commissioned a region-wide YouGov survey – with 2,727 respondents – to explore sleep patterns and behaviours among GCC residents.
In terms of quantity of sleep, 51 per cent of respondents report sleeping six to eight hours per night, and only 19 per cent achieve the recommended eight or more hours per night, with 24 per cent consistently sleeping less than six hours per night.
About 62 per cent of GCC respondents consider sleep very important to their overall wellbeing, with women (67 per cent) prioritising it more than men (59 per cent). Married individuals with children (65 per cent) place higher importance on sleep than singles (55 per cent).
Meanwhile, the survey also found that symptoms of sleep deprivation such as fatigue, headaches and low energy are widespread among those experiencing insufficient rest. Notably, 65 per cent of GCC respondents aged 45 and above report feeling fatigued, compared to an overall average of 48 per cent.
Sleep patterns differ across the GCC, with respondents in Bahrain reporting the highest average sleep duration (56 per cent getting 6 to 8 hours) compared to lower averages in KSA and Kuwait (48 per cent).
Understanding what makes a perfect night’s sleep allows hotels to fine-tune their offerings and provide a truly restful escape that feels just like home - or better. In terms of important hotel amenities, GCC respondents cited high-quality mattresses and pillows, temperature control, soundproofing and blackout curtains as the most important contributors for a good night’s sleep at a hotel. According to the survey men reported slightly better sleep quality in hotels compared to women.
The survey also reveals a growing awareness of quality sleep as a cornerstone of overall wellness. High-level professionals and travellers are increasingly seeking sleep-cations, short stays designed to optimise rest and rejuvenation. With sleep tourism emerging as a significant trend, hotels need to focus on ensuring guests enjoy the most restful night’s sleep.
Four Seasons properties address common sleep barriers with mattresses that designed for maximum comfort, with three customisable mattress toppers available to every guest, including signature, plush or firm. Properties also offer luxurious linens and robes and enhanced sleep environments incorporating double-walled windows for soundproofing, in-room temperature controls and blackout shades. Gender-specific amenities and customisable family-friendly packages ensure restful stays for these demographics.
To further elevate sleep quality, select properties provide sleep-focused experiences, allowing guests to discover personalised approaches that align with their wellness needs. The Pearl Spa in Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, for instance, offers a Sleeping Ritual comprising a relaxing tea ritual, foot bath, aromatic breath exercise, 20-minute back massage, and 20-minute scalp massage. The wellness programmes at Four Seasons Hotel Amman includes complimentary night stretching classes, yoga and meditation sessions for in-house guests to enhance sleep quality.