This was hands down probably one of the best massages I've had! Yahia started the session with hot stones that felt so grounding and asked if I had any concerns. I've always had tight shoulders from workouts and computer work and a hip that can't quite align even with consistent chiropractics, so I mentioned that but Yahia also did his own assessment and made sure to address my concerns and anything he noticed. I was amazed and so appreciative of how much time and effort Yahia made into trying to get my hips back into alignment, but he never skipped an area and it felt like a perfect combination of relaxing full body massage and more intensive bodywork. When it comes to the space and location, it couldn't be more ideal. When it comes to massages, parking is always a potential pet peeve of mine because I never want to be intensely stressed out right before trying to relax. This place was so easy to get to with a private lot and the space was incredible with a beautiful blend of essential oils. The pre-, during, and post-massage was all one beautiful vibe that I didn't want to end. If you're looking for an incredible massage from a kind and genuine person who really listens to your concerns (and insanely reasonable rates to boot) then look no further and reach out to Yahia! read more

Yahia is a miracle worker, that's all I can say. If you need a deep, therapeutic massage, he's your guy. He'll get you sorted and back on track. read more

Yahia gives the best massages!!! I started using 4-5 years ago to help with my upper back tightness. When I moved out of the area, I searched and searched for a new massage place but none even came close to the massages Yahia gave. Now when I am in Marin, I always makes sure to visit Yahia. Do yourself (and your body) a favor and book an appointment. Your body will thank you later :) read more

Hands down the best massage I've ever had. Wish I had the funds to go way more often, but it's worth every penny.

So many of my family and friends have told me about Yahia's massages. My lower back "goes out" and I have gone to chiropractors for years. The pain is severe. My sister kept telling me that Yahia can help with my lower back and all the tension I carry in my upper back and shoulders. I went into see him yesterday. I have never had treatment anywhere near as good as the one he did. My back pain is completely gone and the tension in my neck and shoulders is gone. I now know what everyone has been telling me all these years! He has a gift for finding exactly what needs his healing touch and is an incredibly nice person, as well! He takes the time to listen and then I could tell that he went right to all of the places that needed massage. I will never go anywhere else and I encourage everyone that is hurting to give him the opportunity to help! read more

Yahia is the best period!! I'm from New York and have had many different kinds of massages but his skills and technique are beyond comparison. When I moved here 2 years ago, I was very stressed and had very bad carpal tunnel syndrome. I found him through yelp reviews and started his services right away!! Within six weeks I was myself again and so much better. Fast forward to now over two years later, I had a baby six months ago, and unfortunately was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Yahia has been so patient with me and working with me to decrease my pain, to help the stiffness and work out the knots. I will continue to go to him while I have this autoimmune disease and I know he will continue to work with me and help me get better! There is no one else here in Novato that compares to him! Book him now! What are you waiting for? read more

I have been coming to Yahia for years! About 2 years ago I moved out of the area, but I still make my way to Yahia for my monthly deep tissue body work massages. For the past year I have started to work out regularly which has taken its toll on my muscle groups. Yahia has been able to seamlessly navigate my muscles from sedentary/desk job lifestyle to more active work out/muscle building needs. He has been able to alleviate my muscle tightness allowing me to gain back my full range of motion to help me move forward with my goals. Only with Yahia can I leave a deep tissue session feeling like a relaxed Gumby. read more

5 stars isn't enough..........I was really skeptical about massage working for me until recently a friend of mine told me about Yahia. I've had neck and back issues for a long time and man I'm glad I listened to my friend. Yahia is a miracle worker. I seriously have no idea how he does it but after I get done, all my neck/back issues disappear. Not only does Yahia do good massage but he is one of the coolest people I have met. He is sincere and trustworthy. Just someone you feel comfortable around. I was kinda apprehensive about writing this because once everyone finds out about this place, I probably won't be able to schedule a massage (online booking FYI) Just try it and you will not be disappointed. read more

I was in an emergent situation with a tension headache that was so bad I was having neck, head, and jaw pain. After several visits to the medical practitioner, and my last visit on a Friday afternoon in pain, it was suggested I try massage. I found Al Karaama massage through Yelp (Kudos Yelp Reviews) and called in desperation for an appointment. Yahia returned my call quickly and had a cancellation spot that I was able to fill. As this was my first time, I was not sure what to expect but the office was very serene, clean, and welcoming. His greeting was professional and friendly. I shared with him the pain I was having and he was able to quickly get the treatment plan for the visit together. I walked out of there feeling about 50% better than when I had arrived, and no longer wanted to seek urgent care. Yahia is a modern day healer in massage! Not only does he know what he is doing, he is affordable! I almost don't want to share this review and I want to covet his services so that I can assure there are appointment slots for me in the future. read more

Wow. Best massage ever. I went to Al Karaama after hearing raves from a friend. I was highly, highly skeptical. This place is tucked away in an office complex off Hill that's seen better days and appears to be only half-occupied. However, once I stepped inside Al Karaama, the vibe was warm and welcoming. The small lobby is serene and nicely decorated. My masseuse was Yahia-- such a nice guy. I explained that I'd been having some specific neck/ upper back pain, and he recommended that I do some deep tissue work to resolve the issue. My upper back and shoulders were sore the next day, as he'd told me they would be, but then all the pain I'd been experiencing was gone. My back hasn't felt this good in years! Thank you, Yahia! I will definitely be returning to Al Karaama. read more

Wow! What a hidden gem in western Novato! After searching like a mad woman to find where my favorite massage therapist had moved after leaving a Marin County spa I finally tracked Anthony down. It wasn't easy, but alas, my aching muscles are beginning to feel normal again. I was delighted to learn that he and a partner had opened their own massage practice in a quaint little medical office building in Novato. Their spa is so tranquil and so welcoming and from the moment I stepped foot in the door I immediately felt relaxed. I thought the chirping birds in the bathroom where such a cute little touch. The heated massage tables are so cozy and warm and the hot stone and hot towel were such a treat. The massage was amazing as always and at the end of the session when it was time to pay for my services I nearly fell on the floor when he told me it was $55. $55 FOR AN HOUR MASSAGE IN MARIN COUNTY?!?!? That's unheard of! Anthony is already booking up very quickly so I've booked my next 3 sessions via his website www.alkaraama.com it's so convenient to be able to book my appointments online. I'm looking forward to my next massage with Anthony. read more

I had let myself get into a bit of a stress-mess for too long and needed some urgent muscle work. Even turning my head was on the jacked side, I was that uptight! Anyway, I got myself in to see Yahia and he immediately got to work tracking down and obliterating the causes of my discomfort. Just the right mix of power and finesse to set me straight again. I was really very impressed, I will seriously be making a habit of these sessions. read more

Excellent. Just finished a deep deep tissue massage. I told him to dig in there and he really did. My lower back was completely jacked and he helped quite a bit. Nice guy. Strong. Very reasonably priced. I'm looking forward to a second visit. read more

After having chronic tightness in my upper back and neck, I finally went in to have a deep tissue bodywork session and I'm really glad I did. Yahia is very welcoming and through in his work, and also takes great care to make sure you are comfortable. I recommend this place wholeheartedly! Essential for all of us who carry stress in our body and needs professional care in a peaceful space. 10/10! read more

I had my first massage at the new site. Anthony is awesome as always. The new tables were great, warm and super comfy on my face. It feels inviting and comfortable to be there, and I felt so much better afterwards. Safe, warm, wonderful. And it's so easy to book on-line with the website. www.alkaraama.com and away you go. read more

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Yahia. I was a loyal customer of his for over a year and then moved out of the area and began searching for a new massage therapist up to the same standard. I tried a dozen or more services throughout Marin and no one came close! Now that I have a car again and am able to travel to Novato, he is the ONLY one who I will let work on my chronic back issues, as he is the only one who actually gets in there and relieves the knots and tension that cause me daily pain. Not only is Yahia an intuitive and PROFESSIONAL masseuse, he is also an incredibly friendly and kind person. Despite this, he is very considerate and doesn't talk through the whole massage, which I appreciate. I am overjoyed to have found his services and cannot stress enough how incredible his work is. I really enjoy the scents he uses in his room and he has happily shared recommendations on specific oils I can diffuse at home to recreate the experience. I also love that he uses plenty of lotion during my massage -- having dry skin that just sucks up any available moisture, I have noticed other therapists have been stingy in that regard. Yahia always uses just the right amount of lotion so that there is no drag and everything moves with a comfortable fluidity. Add to that the fact that he is willing and able to book massages last minute! Many massage services in San Rafael don't have availability on short notice...I have waited weeks for a massage only to be cancelled on the day of with only an apology and request to rebook for another few weeks..which is a real issue when you've pulled a muscle in your neck and need to get back to work NOW. I just text him directly and ask when his next opening is! What a blessing Yahia is to maintaining my work/life balance and feeling (more than) okay in my own body. Pick your favorite adjective synonymous with "incredible" and he fits the bill perfectly. Did I mention his rates are ridiculously reasonable? Whether you need a relaxing massage or some intense bodywork, Yahia will listen to your needs and get you feeling great again. Just book him already! read more

Just got back from a deep tissue massage and it was truly epic! been having neck pains and now they are gone completely !!! Thx guys, totally worth the drive from Petaluma. Odd location but works for me at the price read more

I was recommended to Yahia by a friend when I was experiencing some neck pain that had been causing me discomfort for weeks. After my 90min massage with Yahia my neck was brand new! He is the first person to offer me a massage that actually relieved my muscles. His work is absolutely amazing, and he is such a humble and caring individual. I just finished up my second massage with Yahia, and once again couldn't be happier! He spent a good amount of time working on my extremely tight back, and after the appointment offered some great suggestions for preventing my muscle tension. I couldn't be more thankful for his services and my body appreciates the hard work he puts into making it brand new! read more

I never had a massage before Yahia and I was instantly a devoted patron. This man is so talented and welcoming. Every appointment I leave feeling like a new person. The entire experience of stepping into his office transforms you to a mini vacation. Not to mention he is so funny and kind and really gets to know you personally and work with your specific needs. I don't know how I got through all the back pain I was having before I met him. Highly recommend Yahia to anyone looking to have their life changed! read more

Great hidden gem. Yahia is a top notch masseuse. His prices are very reasonable. I've been using Yahia for a few years and he's incredible. The location is located in a medical building with lots of parking. Its easy to get to off of 101. There are no frills here, robe to change into, fancy walk around slippers, infused water etc. Instead its just Yahia with his skilled hands and great prices. His website is very easy to schedule appointments on. He has been getting a lot busier lately and his schedule is not as wide open as I am used to :( He is not a big talker during the massage and I prefer that. He will skillfully work out your tension while making sure that you also are relaxed. I tend to get deep tissue massages and I love his firm pressure. He is a big guy with big hands made to ease away the tensions of ones day. An hour massage with him is a real hour. read more

I'm kind of a massage nut so I'm really happy to have found Al Karaama. Best massage in town, hands down (pun intended)! The location is neat, clean, warm and friendly -- as are Anthony and Yadia. If you want a great deep tissue massage (and who doesn't?) you can't go wrong here. read more

Yahia is our go-to guy forever! I discovered him through reviews on Yelp, and haven't gone to anyone else since. My husband and I (both massage junkies) have been to countless massage therapists and massage studios over the years, and we've found our home. He's so warm and kind, and the massage studio is super relaxing. You'd never guess you were in an office complex. In the couple years since I found him, I've sent my husband, my mom and my sister-in-law, and they all say it's one of the best, if not the best, massages they've ever had. The online booking process is so easy, too. And oh my gosh, the prices! Absurdly reasonable! As long as we live in Marin, we won't go anywhere else. read more

Perfect! Therapeutic and relaxing with an intuitive and competent masseur. Very strong and able to kneed out those stubborn knots, but gentle and relaxing. A perfect balance. read more

YiaYia is awesome. Great and very intuitive massage. I get massages all the time and this guy is top notch. On top of a great massage he is simply a really nice person. Never had a bad massage here. I highly recommend giving him a try! read more

I went to Yahia not able to lift my arm above my head without pain, from a repetitive sports injury. I had little success with a physical therapist and exercises after a couple months and was starting to wonder if I'd ever get my range of motion back... or was the aging process going to win?? I had seen Yahia once before when I wasn't injured and thought I'd give it a try again - how could it hurt? Well OUCH! Yahia is a VERY strong guy and he went at a muscle behind my shoulder blade hard and deep. I won't lie, it was not pleasant. But in the end he did it... after the session I was able to lift my arm over my head without the pinching pain. I hadn't done that for 3 months. Fast forward two more months later I continue w/ my exercises the PT gave me and massage about once a month and I'm back 100%. Yahia continues to work that muscle to keep it loose and each time I feel like I was beat up the next day. But I'll do whatever it takes to keep playing my sport. I think of my sessions with Yahia as therapy rather than massage. It doesn't feel good all the time -- I'd rather have a nice rolling massage but I NEED the deeper tissue work. Yahia is wonderful. I'm not a talker and he won't force you to talk. The office is small but peaceful and pleasant, not over the top with life-affirming proclamations. It's in a professional office development that looks very 80's. AND it's the best deal. I honestly don't think I'd even consider regular massage if it were $80-90/hour which seems normal in Marin. With Yahia I can get in and out and get back to my day. Online booking is awesome too. Highly recommend giving him a try!! read more

Yeah, I'll have to give it to him. Yahia (sp?) was punctual, timely, friendly, thorough, firm (ouch!) and everything else previous reviewers have said. The weird little office mall hides a tastefully minimized masseur. I think I need to go more often. The only other experience I had in Novato for massages was a corporate chain. Remember local businesses and support them. Also, he could charge much more like my previous Piedmont/Claremont masseur...so put extra in the tip! read more

One of the best therapists I've had work on me, and so reasonably priced. A true gem. He's very talented and very friendly.

Yahia is a miracle worker. I was in a car accident a few years ago and have chronic back pain. I see Yahia about once a month and he helps keep me pain free and comfortable. read more

This is by far the best massage place in Marin. Yahia is so great at working the mussels. I wish I could come 3 times a week!!!! He is not afraid to use pressure which seems rare now a days. You will not regret a massage from Al Karaama! read more

Yahia is amazing! I left my 90 min massage feeling completely relaxed and all tension in my shoulders released. What makes the massage better than any other I've had is the way Yahia works out the tension, but still keeps it relaxing and pain free. I've been back since then and highly recommend anyone considering a massage to make an appointment with Yahia! read more

It's always wonderful to encounter someone who clearly has a passion for their work. I'm a bit of a massage snob and Yahia is the best massage therapist I've seen. From the moment you walk in, it's obvious he takes the utmost pride in his work. His massage studio is clean and relaxing. Yahia is very intuitive and can tell exactly where you are having issues. I prefer strong effective massages over relaxing gentle ones and Yahia manages to provide the perfect balance - all at an affordable price. Make an appointment. You won't regret it. read more

Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! I am an RN and he really knows how to give a deep tissue massage. I carry my tension in my neck and shoulders and after a massage session with Yahia, I feel so much better! Easy to get an appointment online. He will moderate his massage technique to your needs. Reasonably priced. Nice person. Excellent masseuse. What more can you ask for? read more

There is a magic hand(s) and they belong to Anthony who has shaped up my body to the point where he is now challenged!! He does great work. Al took on my sister-in-law during a visit here and I had to pour her into the car to get her back to our home! These guys are great. read more

Best massage I've ever had! I always feel great and pain-free afterward. Also very reasonable fees. I highly recommend Yahia at Al Karaama.

Yahia really knows what he's doing! I have not found his knowledge and experience with other CMT's in Marin County. And we all know that almost everyone in Marin County is either a "massage therapist", "yoga teacher" or knows someone who is. I saw Yahia today due to a pinching in my neck and shoulder. I know from experience massage then chiro works best to rid the pain but honestly I feel like one more session with Yahia and I won't need an adjustment! He knew exactly what areas to focus on and used the perfect amount of pressure. I think halfway through I thought to myself, he must be exhausted you can feel and appreciate all the work he is doing to bring harmony back into my body. Oh and did I mention the 90 minute massage comes with hot stones , cold stones on face(which helped with sinus') and a hot towel foot wrap! I never write reviews but when you believe others can benefit from seeing someone like Yahia it is worth every second! See Yahia your body, mind, and soul will thank you! Be Well read more

Yahia was great... I needed a mix of Deep Tissue and Swedish, and he knew exactly when to go at those knots and when to ease up on me. Very strong, intuitive and affordable. Definitely recommend. read more

I just had a 90 minute massage from Anthony and think it is the BEST massage I have ever received. I know some who read this will be skeptical because I never post yelp reviews but it is the truth. My neck and lower back were so sore before I saw him that I really did not believe I could be helped but voila - I am a new person!! The price is great too...$55/hour or $75 for 90 minutes. THANK YOU ANTHONY!!! read more

I gave massages to my two daughters for Christmas and they both said it was the BEST massage they had ever had. Thank you!

I have been getting massages for years now because of the strain that my sports schedule leaves on my body. I have relocated all around the bay area so have also switched massage therapists a bunch of times, but Al Karaama has given me by far the best treatment in years!! Not to mention that the atmosphere brings you just as much pleasure as the massage itself. I already have my next appointment scheduled! read more

Booked online, was super fast and easy. Massage was awesome from Yahia, and for 90 minutes it was one of the cheapest massages ever, even with a nice tip. Hope to go back again soon. read more