Get inspired by these romantic getaways to Dubai

Let’s start with the most basic element of your trip: when to go.

Dubai’s weather is at its best (i.e. coolest) when a lot of the Northern Hemisphere is struggling through winter, between November and April, and there are plenty of events and festivals going on as a result, making it the perfect place for couples who fancy a bit of winter sun to warm their bones.

That being said, the warm-but-not-too-hot temperatures at this time of year mean that this is high season at the best hotels for couples in Dubai, and its main attractions will be busy.

A quieter time to visit to avoid the crowds and the worst of the heat is the shoulder season (May and September-October).

If you don’t mind sticking to indoor activities to keep cool when it’s hotting up outside, then take advantage of the low season and lower prices of June-August.

Now you know when to go, let’s talk about the couple activities in Dubai that you’ll both adore.

If that loved-up feeling has got you floating on air, take to the skies at dawn with a magical hot air balloon ride.

This is one of the best ways to see not just the city, but the breathtaking desert landscape surrounding Dubai. Even if one of you is a bit nervous about heights, facing your fears is well worth it to watch an Arabian sunrise from the skies.

If a super early morning isn’t exactly your idea of the best romantic things to do in Dubai, then sunset is another great time for a ride.

If a hot air balloon doesn’t appeal, maybe a helicopter will be more up your street. Or perhaps now you’ve soared over the desert in a balloon, you’ve got a taste for a bird's eye view, and want to see the legendary man-made islands of Dubai for yourself.

Best done at sunset for that golden hour light, see iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and the Palm Jumeirah, whilst gripping your partner’s hand, stars in both your eyes.

Speaking of the Burj Khalifa, one thing you have to do whilst staying in Dubai with the one you love is watch the sun go down from its heights.

If you’re looking for date ideas in Dubai, this should be at the top of your list, so make sure you book tickets or make a restaurant reservation in advance, as sunset spots book up quickly. Choose between the more cost-effective At The Top viewing platform, or treat yourself to a meal at one of the lounges, located even higher up.

Whilst we’re on the subject of the Burj Khalifa, right in front of it, you’ll find the Burj Lake, home to the Dubai Fountain. This show, which starts at 6 pm every night and is repeated every half hour until 11 pm, is one of Dubai’s best tourist attractions, and it’s totally free to enjoy from the promenade outside Dubai Mall.

Dancing water, lights, and music, could it get any more romantic?

Yes, actually! People planning the ultimate romantic getaways in Dubai tend to book themselves onto a traditional abra boat to see the show as you glide across the water.

Or if you prefer to stick to dry land, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants at Souk Al Bahar. If either of these options appeals, be sure to book in advance, as they’re extremely popular activities.

This coastal city is perfect for viewing from the comfort of a boat. Dhow cruises are a popular option amongst tourists, and can be a lovely date activity, but if it’s next-level romance you’re looking for, then consider a short, private sightseeing cruise, or a longer trip that includes dinner and drinks onboard.

Forgive us for repeating ourselves (we promise there are lots of things to do on romantic getaways in Dubai at other times of day), but this is another activity that’s perfect for sunset. Set sail at golden hour to see the city skyline and landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and The Palm glowing in the evening light.

If you’re an active pair and are looking for another way to take to the water, then stand-up paddleboarding could be the perfect bonding activity.

There are plenty of different spots to rent a paddleboard, like Kite Beach, Palm Jumeirah, or, much further inland, the tranquil waters of Hatta Dam, a great place to enjoy a walk or a picnic after your paddle. And if the two of you have a taste for doing watersports together, you’re in the right place, with scuba diving, wakeboarding and much more.

Dubai is known for luxury, and its selection of world-class spas lives up to that reputation. Take some time out from your busy holiday in Dubai by booking a spa day.

Many of the city’s spas have options tailored to couples wanting to spend some relaxing quality time in each other’s company, and there’s something for every budget.

No romantic getaways in Dubai are complete without a visit to this spot, ready-made for couples. It’s all in the name: the Love Lakes are designed to be one of the most romantic places in the UAE.

These two intertwining heart-shaped lakes created in the desert, not too far from Dubai, are designed for romance. Get yourselves a picnic and head out to this quiet spot, the perfect peaceful escape from the busy city.

While away a few hours with the one you love, immersing yourself in one of Dubai’s traditional souks, window shopping, or actually shopping. The Gold Souk sells just what the name suggests it might, and is the perfect place to find a gift.

Take a ride across Dubai Creek in an abra to see Old Dubai from a different angle, and appreciate the history underpinning this modern, vibrant city.

Depending on what your tastes are as a couple, there’s so much more to explore, from a night of culture at Dubai Opera, to a day of adventure sandboarding in the desert or a leisurely stroll around the incredible Dubai Miracle Garden, home to 150 million flowers.

Soak up the magic, the warmth and the atmosphere, and go home with a bevvy of romantic memories.