Valentine’s Day in Dubai is one of the most romantic and luxurious experiences couples can experience. With Dubai’s known reputation for going above and beyond on lavish experiences, couples can find themselves with a plethora of choices of what to do on Valentine’s Day, even for those who plan at the very last minute. Whether you would like to make your day an adventure of romance or have a quiet and intimate evening within the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Dubai will provide a solution for every couple to have a perfect day. If you and/or your loved one are lost within the many choices, continue reading to find 20 best date ideas for Valentine’s Day in Dubai that you will remember for a lifetime.
Valentine’s Day History
Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, has a history that is rich and complex, spanning centuries and incorporating various cultural and religious traditions. While the exact origins of Valentine’s Day are debated with myths and legends, its roots can be traced back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, a pagan fertility celebration held in mid-February.
It is believed that the Catholic Church wanted to Christianize the pagan festival in the 5th century by associating it with the martyrdom of St. Valentine, a Roman priest who was executed on February 14th in the 3rd century CE. However, the identity of St. Valentine remains somewhat ambiguous, as there were multiple martyrs named Valentine who lived during the same period.
Over the centuries, Valentine’s Day evolved into a celebration of love and affection, with the exchange of handwritten notes, flowers, and tokens of affection becoming common practices, especially between couples who want to portray their love to each other.
Rules To Remember
While Valentine’s Day is widely celebrated in Dubai, residents and visitors alike should remember that the populous city is located in the Middle East, where modesty and respect are held at a lawful level. While it is now legal to live and accommodate with the opposite sex outside of marriage, couples still need to respect the Muslim culture in the UAE. This includes being mindful of dressing modestly, refraining from overly intimate gestures in public, and understanding that cultural norms may differ from one’s own. By embracing cultural sensitivity and awareness, couples from all backgrounds can ensure that their Valentine’s Day celebrations in Dubai are enjoyable and respectful for all.
Valentine’s Day in Dubai For Adrenaline Seekers
- Skydiving: What can be more exciting than the thrill of freefalling over the Palm Jumeirah with your significant other? Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush by skydiving in Dubai with the breathtaking views of the cityscapes and coastline on Valentine’s Day. (AED 1,000 – AED11,700)
- Skydiving Indoor: For a slightly tamer but still thrilling experience, try indoor skydiving at iFLY Dubai. Feel the sensation of freefalling in a controlled environment, allowing you both to experience the excitement of skydiving without having to jump from a plane. (AED 149 – AED 2,250)
- Dune Bashing: Embark on a heart-pounding dune-bashing adventure in the Dubai desert. Hold onto each other as you ride through the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, experiencing exhilarating twists, turns, and climbs in the rugged terrain. (From AED 150)
- Jet Skiing: Rent a pair of jet skis and hit the waves for an adrenaline-fueled ride along Dubai’s coastline. Feel the wind in your hair as you race across the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, soaking in panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks for a truly remarkable Valentine’s Day in Dubai. (From AED 80)
- Zip Lining: Soar across the Dubai Marina skyline on the XLine, one of the world’s longest urban zip lines. Hold hands as you zip from one skyscraper to another, enjoying bird’s-eye views of the city below during this exhilarating aerial adventure. (AED 499 – AED 650)
Valentine’s Day in Dubai For Hopeless Romantics
- Sunrise/Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride: Start your Valentine’s Day in Dubai with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the desert at sunrise, or end the day with a romantic evening of a gorgeous Middle-Eastern sunset. Drift peacefully above the golden sands while watching the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. (From AED 1,000)
- Private Yacht Cruise: Charter a luxury yacht for a private cruise along Dubai’s stunning coastline. Sail into the sunset with your loved one, enjoying champagne and hors d’oeuvres on deck as you take in panoramic views of the city’s skyline. With the glittering lights of Dubai as your backdrop, romance will be in the air as you cruise under the moonlit sky. (From AED 400)
- Dinner at a Romantic Rooftop Restaurant: Book a table at one of Dubai’s chic rooftop restaurants for a dinner with a view. Dine amidst the twinkling lights of the city skyline, with breathtaking vistas stretching out before you. Savor gourmet cuisine and fine wines as you toast to your love against the backdrop of Dubai’s iconic landmarks. (Prices vary depending on location and orders)
- Private Cinema Screening: Rent out a private cinema for a cozy movie night with your partner. Choose a selection of romantic films to watch together, snuggled up under a blanket with popcorn and chocolates. With the entire cinema to yourselves, you can enjoy an intimate and personalized movie experience on Valentine’s Day in Dubai. (From AED 129)
- Stargazing in the Desert: Escape the city lights and head into the desert for a romantic evening of stargazing. Set up a cozy campfire under the vast desert sky and cuddle up together as you marvel at the beauty of the stars above. With the tranquil desert as your backdrop, you’ll feel like you’re the only two people in the world as you share this intimate moment together. (Free)
Valentine’s Day in Dubai For Luxurious Splurgers
- Private Helicopter Tour: Take your romance to new heights with a private helicopter tour of Dubai’s iconic landmarks. Soar above the city’s skyscrapers, beaches, and desert landscapes while enjoying a bird’s eye view of this vibrant metropolis. With a private tour tailored just for the two of you, this exhilarating experience promises to be a highlight of your Valentine’s Day in Dubai. (From AED 3,000)
- Private Cooking Class: Enroll in a private cooking class for a fun and interactive Valentine’s Day in Dubai. Learn to prepare a gourmet meal together under the guidance of a professional chef, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor with a romantic dinner for two. With hands-on instruction and delicious food, this culinary adventure will create memories to cherish for years to come. (From AED 350)
- Yacht Charter with Personal Chef: Rent a luxurious yacht for the day and cruise along Dubai’s coastline in style. Enjoy the ultimate privacy and comfort with a personal chef on board, who will prepare a bespoke menu tailored to your tastes. (AED 1,300 – AED 30,000)
- Exclusive Dining Experience: Reserve a table at one of Dubai’s most exclusive restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether it’s a Michelin-starred restaurant, a private chef’s table, or a romantic dinner in a secluded setting, indulge in gourmet cuisine and impeccable service this Valentine’s Day in Dubai. (From AED 300)
- Extravagant Staycation: Book a lavish suite at one of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels for a romantic staycation. Enjoy VIP amenities, private butler service, and stunning views of the city skyline, creating a truly indulgent Valentine’s Day in Dubai. (AED 760 – AED 77,000)
Valentine’s Day in Dubai For Simple Savers
- Beach Picnic: Pack a homemade picnic basket with sandwiches, fruits, and snacks, and head to one of Dubai’s public beaches. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon lounging on the sand, soaking up the sun, and taking romantic strolls along the shoreline. (Free)
- Sunset Viewing: Find a scenic spot with a panoramic view of the Dubai skyline, such as Jumeirah Beach or Dubai Marina, and watch the sunset together. It’s a simple yet beautiful way to enjoy each other’s company without spending a dime. (Free)
- Dubai Fountain Show: Head to the Dubai Mall and catch the mesmerizing fountain show outside the Burj Khalifa. The synchronized water, music, and light show is free to watch and makes for a magical Valentine’s Day in Dubai. (Free)
- Dubai Creek Walk: Take a romantic stroll along the Dubai Creek promenade, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. Enjoy street performers, local vendors, and stunning views of the Dubai skyline without spending a dirham. (Free)
- Visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: Explore the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, also known as Bastakiya, with its narrow lanes, wind-towered houses, and traditional architecture. (Free)
Written by: Anastasia Makarycheva