Doing things a little differently
Forget predictable dinner dates. This Valentine’s Day, Dubai is dialling up the romance with salsa dancing, candlelit Riviera feasts, VIP cinema indulgence and even a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon escape. If you’re looking to celebrate love in a way that feels memorable (and a little different), these are the best unique Valentine’s experiences to book now.
Cinemacity Fountain Views
An elevated cinema date for couples
Movie night gets a luxury upgrade at Cinemacity Fountain Views. Known for its VIP cinema concept, this is far from your average popcorn-and-screen setup. Couples can sink into plush seats while enjoying Japanese-inspired cuisine, bespoke cocktails and discreet butler service delivered straight to their seats.
For Valentine’s Day, the venue is offering an exclusive couple’s package that includes two VIP tickets, a premium sushi platter, drinks of your choice (wine, prosecco or mocktails) and Valentine’s chocolates. It’s relaxed, indulgent and perfect for couples who prefer a low-key yet polished evening.
DRIFT Dubai
A three-day Riviera-inspired Valentine’s weekend
DRIFT Dubai is stretching Valentine’s into a full weekend celebration at One&Only Royal Mirage. Expect candlelight dinners by the sea, Parisian brunches and a stylish White Party that channels French Riviera glamour.
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Friday night sets the tone with an elegant candlelit dinner and a curated three-course menu. Saturday brings a sun-soaked White Party by day and a romantic Montmartre-inspired dinner by night. On Sunday, a Parisian brunch features live DJs, an illustrator sketching portraits and an interactive perfume-making workshop by Oo La Lab. Floral installations and optional bespoke bouquets add an extra romantic flourish throughout the weekend.
Hero Balloon Flights
A sky-high romantic spectacle
For couples ready to go all out, Hero Balloon Flights is offering one ultra-exclusive Valentine’s experience – and there’s only a single booking available. The private adventure begins with chauffeur service in a Land Rover Defender and a bespoke drone show before you board your own chartered hot air balloon.
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In the air, an in-flight chef serves canapés inspired by the elements, alongside 24k gold-coated chocolate strawberries. After landing, a secluded Valentine’s breakfast awaits among 1,000 red bouquets, complete with live saxophone music. A photographer captures every moment, and the experience ends with a rose gold balloon-shaped pendant gift. It’s extravagant, cinematic and completely unforgettable.
InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay
A private balcony dinner with Burj Khalifa views
For couples seeking a polished overnight escape, InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay is offering a Valentine’s package built around privacy and skyline views. The experience includes a one-night stay in a One-Bedroom Residence overlooking the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal, complete with breakfast.
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The highlight is a romantic three-course dinner served on a private balcony. Couples can choose from starters such as salmon carpaccio, heirloom tomato and burrata, or clam chowder, followed by a surf-and-turf main of tomahawk steak and grilled prawns. Dessert comes in the form of chocolate fondue and molten chocolate cake, paired with a bottle of prosecco to toast the evening. It’s an intimate, crowd-free way to celebrate with front-row city views.
Lady Nara
A phone-free dinner voyage on the water
Lady Nara is offering couples the chance to drift away from the city with a Valentine’s flagship dinner voyage aboard its luxury bistro-style dhow. Sailing along Dubai’s coastline at night, the two-hour experience is designed to create a sense of calm and connection.
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A four-course dinner is served alongside a specially created Valentine’s dessert, and each couple receives a complimentary cocktail to share. Instant photographs are taken throughout the evening and printed as keepsakes. In a thoughtful twist, guests are invited to store their phones in the Captain’s Vault on boarding, encouraging uninterrupted conversation and proper quality time on the water.
If you’re planning a grand gesture or a playful afternoon date, Dubai’s Valentine’s line-up proves romance doesn’t have to follow a script. From dancing and dining to drifting above the desert, these experiences offer plenty of ways to celebrate love with a twist.
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Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
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