If planning a dream proposal is in your plans, you might be after a romantic spot to propose in the UAE. Here, we reveal the very best places to propose across the emirates, that not only provide you with a romantic backdrop, but also help you organise the monumental moment – so all you need to do is focus on the romance and magic. Whether it’s a sunrise hot air balloon ride or journey to a private island, here are the most romantic places to propose across the UAE.
A sunrise hot air balloon ride
While sunset often get all the romantic kudos, there’s something to be said about watching the night sky go from deep indigo blue to light pastel pink. Balloon Adventures Dubai offers an intimate ride that captures the fleeting moment of sunrise with a private couples hot air balloon experience that takes you up above the desert sands. One of the most special things to do in Dubai, you and your fiancee-to-be will ride in your very own private balloon basket while the sun makes an appearance on the red-hued dunes. After the romantic ride, indulge in a private breakfast at a secluded desert spot – a blissful way to start your new chapter.
balloon-adventures.com
Among the sandy dunes of a desert nature reserve
The intimacy and romantic ambience of Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai’s breathtaking and almost otherworldly, coming from the natural beauty and seclusion of the desert landscape that surrounds it. Make a romantic weekend of the proposal by bedding down in luxe, traditionally designed Arabian tents, embarking on desert excursions, or arrange a dune dining experience – a private, candle-lit dinner. Create your own personalised menu with the resort’s chef, and while dining among the flora and fauna of the nature reserve, it might just be the perfect time to pop the question.
marriott.com
On a sleek ocean vessel
With year-round sunshine, dazzling ocean sunsets and warm waters, one of the best places to propose in the UAE might just be out at sea. Declare your love as you sail out to the Arabian Gulf on a private luxury charter yacht for the day, ensuring not only romance but a real wow factor. Ranging from 15m to 23m, Xtreme Yacht offers a private cruise specially designed for couples, where you’ll visit secluded beaches, go swimming and dine on decadent meals on board. Be sure to wait until the sun begins to set to get down on one knee – it’ll be the most photo-friendly time. Alternatively, rent a larger yacht for the day and bring all your friends along for an emotional and celebratory post-proposal atmosphere.
From AED900 per hour, xtremeyacht.com
During a romantic beachfront dinner
Dining by Design is a signature dining experience offered at all Anantara properties, inviting guests to enjoy an intimate epicurean experience designed just for them at a secluded spot within the resort. At Anantara The Palm, Dubai’s first and only property with Maldivian-style overwater villas, the private golden beach produces the perfect setting for this service. Guests can enjoy an ultra-romantic dinner against the backdrop of the gentle lapping waves and toast to their future as the sun sets, or, alternatively, book into an overwater villa and set up a private dinner and proposal spot right on the private terrace complete with private swimming pool.
anantara.com
On a secluded private island
If you can’t jet away to the Maldives or Seychelles for your proposal, why not book a stay at a Beach Villa on the tranquil Nurai Island? A short 20-minute boat ride off the coast of Abu Dhabi, the beautiful private island resort transports guests to a tropical island idyll and is the perfect spot to prove your love. The resort offers a special romance package inclusive of bespoke villa decoration, a couples’ massage and a candle-lit beachside dinner – just some of the things in store for your memorable island stay.
nuraiisland.com
After a luxury spa experience
With all the nerves leading up to a proposal, it’s only right to get a relaxing spa treatment before taking the leap. At the opulent Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, the two-hour Romance 1001 Roses package includes a skin-softening bath with fresh strawberries, a private sauna and Jacuzzi session and a rejuvenating 60-minute massage for two. Choose this option for the ideal wind-down leading up to that special moment. Across town, the Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al Qast offers a ‘just the two of us’ package, taking place in one of its 26 luxurious spa villas, which each house three couples’ suites. The secluded experience includes a romantic walk through lush tropical gardens to reach the suite, along with a 120-minute personalised couple’s experience.
jumeirah.com
At an Epicurean underwater restaurant
As one of the best restaurants in Dubai, Atlantis The Palm‘s Michelin-starred Ossiano is an immersive experience, not only offering a world-class tasting menu, but offering an inimitable dining setting amongst the resort’s towering aquariums. Dine among stingrays, sharks and shoals of tropical fish as you dine on fresh seafood creations and exquisite wines. When it comes to popping the question, let one of the restaurant’s underwater divers do it for you: they’ll swim to your table with a personalised message for that special someone.
atlantis.com
While kayaking the Hatta Dam
A gorgeous natural wonder, the Hatta Dam’s craggy mountains are a stark contrast to the turquoise-blue waters that rest between them. Popular with day trippers, this rugged enclave is just a short drive from Dubai, and makes a wonderful alternative proposal spot for someone looking for something authentic and stripped back, Rent out a doubles’ kayak for an hour or for the entire day, exploring the surrounding nature – perfect for adventurous couples. Make a night of it too by checking into one of Hatta’s hotels and glamping resorts and enjoy a post-proposal night under the stars.
hattakayak.com
Among a rainbow of flowers at Miracle Garden
If your significant other is all about snapping the perfect shot, look no further than a proposal at the colourful Dubai Miracle Garden. From heart-shaped flower archways to Disney-themed floral attractions, these gardens house a plethora of engagement-worthy spots. Dubai Miracle Garden is seasonal, open each year from November to April/May.
dubaimiraclegarden.com
