If dinner reservations aren’t your thing, these five date ideas promise more fun, fewer eye-rolls and memories that last beyond 14 February.
Being in love in the middle of this month brings with it plenty of clichés, starting with dining at a romantic restaurant on 14 February. Ready to try something new in 2026? Mark the occasion by doing something you and your other half will actually remember. Here, we’ve put together a list of five alternative Valentine’s Day ideas that will appeal to the daredevil, the fashion enthusiast, the culture vulture and more.
For the Active Couple
Feeling out of sync with your significant other? Help is here, courtesy of Couples Yoga at JLT-based studio Yoga Ashram. Given that the word ‘yoga’ means ‘union,’ the session is a great idea if you and your partner are looking to address trust issues and strengthen communication in a lighthearted setting. And all those calories you’ll burn through performing specially formulated postures? An added bonus.
GO: Visit www.yogaashram.com for more information.
For the Fearless Couple
The Sky Views Edge Walk is perfect for couples seeking an adrenaline rush this Valentine’s Day. This hands-free walk on a ledge 219.5 metres above ground level takes thrill-seekers to the top of a skyscraper in Downtown Dubai, with no windows or other barriers standing between them and sky-high views. Bragging rights are guaranteed.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
For the Outdoorsy Couple
Adventure meets romance in the ‘Valentine on Cloud Nine’ package by Balloon Adventures, taking couples 4,000 feet up in the air in a hot air balloon. And while few things top sunrise views from that vantage point, the experience continues to delight, ending with a landing deep in the desert for a picnic-style gourmet breakfast. For one of the most exciting alternative Valentine’s Day ideas in Dubai, look no further.
GO: Visit www.balloon-adventures.com for more information.
For the Sporty Couple
Couples who spectate together, stay together – good news for anyone loved up and interested in tennis. The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships kick off on 15 February. On the roster? World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, six-time Grand Slam winner Iga Swiatek, American prodigy Coco Gauff, and reigning Dubai champion Mirra Andreeva will take to the courts in the early rounds.
GO: Visit www.dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com for more information.
For the Stylish Couple
Are you and your partner passionate about fashion? Take The Fashionista tour by Nara Nomad together, discovering d3-based designers, offbeat boutiques on Jumeirah Beach Road, and local and Middle Eastern designer showrooms in a span of four hours – perfect if you two want to explore the city’s fashion scene beyond shopping malls.
GO: Visit www.nara.ae for more information.
