If it’s romance you’re after, step inside.
Surely it was only minutes ago that we were discussing New Year’s plans, but that’s been and gone already. We’re now closing in on Valentine’s Day, and it’s time to make some plans.
The good news is we’ve done the legwork for you. From special menus to staycations to balloon rides and spa packages, you’ll find it all here. Happy romancing.
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Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah
Why not make a day of it, asks the Valentine’s offering from this Palm Jumeirah hotel. Views back towards the skyline will definitely help set the scene. They’ve got a range of packages to choose from, and special menus if you’re just in for a meal, but we like the sound of one that includes breakfast in bed, in-room massage, and a yacht ride. There’s also beauty treatments and a marina-to-hotel transfer in a Bentley. Very laidback. Room rates from Dhs1,760, day-long package at Dhs5,500.
Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumierah, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Rates subject to municipality fee, service charge and VAT. Tel: (04) 818 2222. waldorfastoria3.hilton.com.
Folly by Nick & Scott
If you ask us, a custom menu put together by two of Dubai’s best chefs is the starting point for a very special evening. Folly’s Nick Alvis and Scott Price are offering curated dining experiences, where they’ll asks about your preferences, advise on wine matching, and generally look after you. We’d suggest getting in touch now – those Burj views are likely to book out. POA.
Folly by Nick & Scott, Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah, Dubai. Call ahead to plan your menu. Tel: (04) 430 8535. folly.ae.
Armani/Spa
Armani Hotel has a range of romantic offerings this year, but we’re liking the sound of the spa treatments. All throughout February, you and your loved one can book in for a two-and-a-half hour relaxation ritual in a private room, with a gift for each of you included. Pair it with a meal at any of the hotel’s restaurants (they’re all running Valentine’s specials, and they sound amazing) and you’ve got a super indulgent day and evening. Spa deals include access to Armani Terme bathing facilities and spa lounge.
Couples exclusive at Armani/Spa, Dhs2,000 per couple, available 9am-10pm Sunday to Thursday throughout February. Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai. Tel: (04) 888 3888. armanihoteldubai.com.
Balloon Adventures Dubai
Can you think of anything much more romantic than seeing the sun rise twice? We’ve done it, and it has to be said, it’s extremely pleasant. With Balloon Adventures Dubai, you can book a private morning ride, where your captain will take you up over the desert to enjoy views of the Hajar Mountains. That double sunrise comes in when you lose a bit of height after seeing it once, and the change of angle means the sun rise up over the ridgeline again. Follow that with a ride in a classic red Landrover and a private breakfast, and we’re thinking you’ll score major points.
Valentine’s Day hot air balloon ride with private breakfast, Balloon Adventures Dubai. Dhs3,390 per couple. Tel: (04) 440 9827. platinum-heritage.com.
Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort
How does a beach-front chalet sound for a Valentine’s weekend? This five-star Abu Dhabi resort strikes us as a very relaxing spot for a bit of a staycation. Packages start at Dhs1,299 and include a bottle of grape, buffet breakfast and dinner by the sea. Upgrades available to suit your tastes – think live music and a four-course Italian meal. Lush.
Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort, Abu Dhabi. Offer available Valentine’s weekend. Tel: (02) 8012222. jebeldhanna.danathotels.com.
Burj Al Arab
Here’s an option for those among us who love a spot of luxury. The Burj Al Arab’s Dinner by Moonlight package involves a private dinner table set up by their 18th-floor infinity pool, with views out to sea. Choose between Arabian and European menus (think lobster, wagyu, and blackcurrant whipped ganache) and enjoy. Three courses are included.
Dinner by Moonlight, Burj Al Arab, Jumeriah. Dhs5,250 for two. Tel: (04) 301 7365. jumeirah.com.
Fairmont Dubai
Here’s a truly extravagant idea. Fairmont Dubai’s ultimate Valentine’s package will set you back Dhs85,000 (yes, you read that correctly) and includes two nights in the hotel’s imperial suite, along with stretch limo transfers, a helicopter ride, 100 red roses, a diamond jewellery set worth Dhs15,000, and a seven-course rooftop dinner. That’s just the first day, by the way. You can also expect a seaplane ride, 90-minute in-room massage, private yacht cruise, and steakhouse dinner. It’s a lot. The hotel also has more moderately priced packages for your consideration.
Ultimate Valentine’s Day package, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Available on stays from February 14, bookings subject to availability and must be made before February 10. Dhs85,000. Tel: (04) 332 5555. fairmont.com.
Images: Supplied
