9 adventurous Valentine’s Day ideas in Dubai

Tandem Skydive at Skydive Dubai
What could be more romantic than feeling the thrill of freefalling at over 120 miles per hour with glorious Palm views to boot? First timers will be in very capable hands, while experienced skydivers can opt for full altitude or even learn to fly solo. Go for it together and you’ll make memories to hold on to when you next fall out in a more shouty way.
Cost: From AED1,999 per person
Where: Palm Drop Zone, Al Seyahi St, Mina Seyahi
Contact: +9714 377 8888

Hot air balloon ride
Take to the skies with a once in a lifetime sunrise glide across the desert with Balloon Adventures Emirates. Prepare to be up at the crack of dawn to meet the sun,but you will be rewarded with gorgeous desert views and a gourmet breakfast at a traditional Bedouin camp once your feet touch the ground. Romantic brownie points all but guaranteed.
Cost: AED1,100 per person
Where: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, pick up point at Dubai Outlet Mall.
Contact: +9714 388 4044

Dinner in The Sky Dubai
One for the adrenaline junkies and foodies alike, Dubai’s newest attraction is certainly unique in its concept – namely dining 50 metres up in a suspended crane. You’ll need a stomach for heights…
Cost: From AED499 for afternoon tea to AED799 for dinner
Where: Dubai International Marine Club
Contact: +971 50 925 6341

Escape Room Challenge at Phobia Dubai
There’s nothing like a ticking clock and a locked room to test you and your partner’s teamwork skills. Crack codes and solve clues to make sure you can get out and make your dinner reservation later.
Cost: From AED290 per couple
Where: Jumeirah Bay X1 Tower, Cluster X, Jumeirah Lakes Towers
Contact: +971 50 873 0445

Trekking at Aqaba-Lima
Probably one of the most picturesque treks you could experience on the most romantic day of the year. It starts with a small boat ride to Aqaba fishing harbour, followed by a coastal walk above a coral reef, lunch at a date farm in Lima under the trees, capped off with a swim in their fresh water pool.
Cost: AED795 per person
Where: The trek with Absolute Adventures sets off from Dibba
Contact: +9714 392 6463

Camping meets glamping
If you fancy getting away from all the hustle and bustle, why not plan a romantic camping date under the stars? Adventure Emirates’ Bedouin Igloo experience in Ras Al Khaimah not only offers stunning dune views, but also includes a tent equipped with mattresses, pillows and blankets to ensure a restful night’s sleep. Slumming it, it ain’t.
Cost: AED600 per person
Where: Departure at Oasis meeting point, Ras Al Khaimah
Contact: +971 55 273 4009

Stand-up paddle boarding 
A low impact, full-body exercise that will improve core strength and overall fitness? Frankly, who knew stand-up paddle boarding would deliver exactly that. It’s also great fun. Here, you can enjoy beautiful views, learn a new skill and bask in the sunshine during your private 90-minute tour with a professional instructor around either the Burj Al Arab or The Atlantis.
Cost: From AED300 per person
Where: Kite N’ Surf, Kite Beach
Contact: +971 50 464 5745

Foot golf
Playing footsie has never been more fun this Valentine’s Day. Engage in a friendly competition with your other half as you kick an enormous golf ball into a giant hole. More of a work out than it looks, but a whole lot of fun – even for competitive types.
Cost: AED100 per person
Where: The Address Dubai Montgomerie Dubai
Contact: +9714 363 1209

Sunrise cycling
One for the early risers and true fitness buffs, Al Qudra cycle course is one of those rare pleasures in Dubai that doesn’t cost the earth. Pedal to your heart’s content and enjoy a leisurely ride around the 50km track together. Book breakfast at Bab Al Shams for afterwards.
Cost: From AED50 for bike hire
Where: Al Qudra Road Cycle Track, Al Qudra
Contact: +9714 321 1132