We’re going to let you in on a little secret: when it comes to grooming, having a clear vision of what you want is imperative to the end result. If given specific instruction, any good skilled barber should be able to have you leaving the chair with a fresh cut and a spring in your step. However, it takes an exceptional barbershop to anticipate all the other little elements that you may not even be aware you want. Aesthetic, chat, coffee, comfort, music, quality of service and vibes, to name a few.
At Shave Barbers & Spa, this is less a secret and more a business model. The sleek barbershop has been a revelation in its native city of Madrid (currently with seven locations), and last month opened its first locations in Dubai with two branches—City Walk, and the Hyde Hotel.
While the service and aesthetics are inspired by the 1940s, Shave has a look and feel that is very modern and very at ease. The navy, white and gold colour palette perfectly navigates the line of clinical and leisure.
“There are a lot of barbers that tend to either lean into that traditional old school leather aesthetic, or more of a gritty-cool, Harley Davidson vibe,” explains founder Sami Azrak. “We wanted to create a more modern, elegant space for men that feels exclusive but is also inclusive.”
Key to Shave’s success in doing this has been by offering the entire gamut of men’s grooming services not usually available in traditional barbershops, including facials, mani-pedis and massage treatments (currently only available in its Hyde Hotel location). However, while they may have capitalized on the increasing demand (and lack of competition) in these areas in Spain, in the UAE the competition and knowledge
in this space is rife.
“Shave salons are designed for today’s man who has internalized the cult of the body and image and wants to take care of himself and make it part of his leisure time,” explains Azrak, as he checks over the first of his international outposts, before divulging that once the brand is established in Dubai, his vision is to roll out his popular ‘Shave Club’ membership service—creating a community of like-minded men each who share his same vision.
Shave Barbers & Spa, City Walk, Dubai. theshaveclub.ae
