Gym closure leaves members in a lurch

TribeFit in Marina is offering transfers to JVT, but members say that’s too far

ADubai gym has closed its doors without offering refunds to its members. TribeFit in Dubai Marina has instead offered a transfer to another gym or told its members to wait until mid-October to restart with them in another venue in Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT).

In an email to its members, TribeFit’s management said, “Unfortunately we find ourselves in very difficult times due to the unexpected and extraordinary circumstances posed by Covid-19.”

‘No easy decision’

In a statement to Gulf News, a TribeFit spokesperson, said: “TribeFit has been serving loyal customers in Dubai Marina for the last seven years and the decision to move to another location was not an easy one. Our members are our No. 1 priority and so we have entered into a partnership with GymNation to enable TribeFit members to avail, utilise and transfer their membership to GymNation.

“Meanwhile, we are working towards opening TribeFit at JVT. Members will be able to utilise their existing memberships and avail additional benefits like football, swimming and tennis for a fee. Members have an option to opt for this new TribeFit Gym in JVT. Since it takes time to plan, obtain approvals and fit out, the club will open by mid-October 2020, subject to receiving authority approvals.”

TribeFit gym members are not happy with the decision, however.

“Members should have been consulted before such a decision was taken,” said Chinese expat Evita Xu, who along with her fiance spent over Dh20,000 on membership.

“I don’t want to go to another gym operator as they don’t have a branch in Dubai Marina. The whole idea about me joining TribeFit was its location as it is close to where I live. For me to use the other club would mean I have to spend time and money to reach the place which I do not want to do.”