From private yachts to castle weddings, exclusive Valentine’s Day experiences await true romantics
Although love is not and should not be measured by the dirham, there is no stopping couples who wish to go all out on Valentine’s Day.
It can be anything from lavish dinners to an elaborate overseas trip, with ultra-luxury elements including charter flights, private islands and more.
Here are some options to check out.
Overnight villa escape for Dh250,000
An intimate dinner aboard a private yacht, personalised spa sessions and round-the-clock concierge services are on offer at Banyan Tree Dubai’s 10-bedroom oceanfront villa.
Pick-up and drop-off services can be arranged for couples from any location in the UAE, before their lavish stay at the 4,465-square-metre secluded property, which includes access to a private beach, infinity pool and pool deck with outdoor bar.
There’s also a barbecue station, gym, outdoor yoga pad and terrace with bonfire pit. The package comes with a romantic dinner at sea.
More information is available at www.banyantree.com
Two-night beach retreat for Dh35,999
Couples who wish to go on a short luxury retreat can book a two-night stay at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi for Dh35,999.
The romantic escape begins with a limousine ride to the one-bedroom suite, which has its own pool, exclusive beach access and a personal butler on hand to tend to any requests.
The evening continues with a four-course private dinner at Ame Beach Bar, transformed into a romantic dining spot complete with candles and live music. Also on the cards is a poolside breakfast, early check-in and late check-out.
More information is available at www.rixos.com
Dinner under the sea for Dh28,000
For busier couples, a classic fine-dining experience at one of the UAE’s most luxurious restaurants could fit the (hefty) bill.
There’s nothing typical about the dinner, as it takes place at Ossiano, the majestic underwater restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm. With one Michelin star under its belt, as well as several other recognitions for its chef Gregoire Berger, couples are sure to have a memorable culinary journey.
Packages start at Dh5,500 per couple but go up to Dh28,000. The Valentine’s Day set menu comprises 10 dishes, and the top-tier package includes add-ons such as seating in direct view of the aquarium, free-flowing premium beverages and a diver with a personalised message.
Ladies will be given a necklace from Tiffany & Co and a bouquet, while a live pianist sets a romantic backdrop.
More information is available at www.atlantis.com
Dual-city getaway for Dh58,500
For those with the budget to splurge, this romantic package from Diamonte Jets is worth checking out. The private jet operator has partnered with Shangri-La Hotel Paris for a curated two-night getaway, but the flight is chartered from the UK, so couples in the UAE are in for a dual-city getaway.
Before flying to Paris, couples can stay a few nights in London to sample the city’s Valentine’s Day offerings, from an afternoon tea at Karma Sanctum Soho to a romantic dinner at Quaglino’s.
After a quick jaunt, guests will be chauffeured to Farnborough Airport in Hampshire where they can enjoy preflight drinks and snacks.
Service on the private jet can be customised, and the crew can also arrange for roses, chocolates and other add-ons.
The flight only takes a little over an hour to reach Paris-Le Bourget Airport where a Mercedes Maybach S class will be waiting to take guests to the Shangri-La property – the former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, the great-nephew of Napoleon.
The package includes a twonight stay in a duplex suite with picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower.
Breakfast, courtesy of La Bauhinia restaurant, can be ordered to the room. Guests also have access to the hotel’s spa, as well as on-demand tours and concierge services in Paris.
The package starts at Dh58,500 for two, exclusive of the UK trip.
More information is available at www.diamontejets.com
Intimate wedding in a castle for Dh75,000
If your idea of a Valentine’s Day getaway involves marriage vows, however last minute, Glenapp Castle in Scotland is the place to be.
The five-star castle hotel in the Ayrshire countryside offers an intimate wedding package, including a three-night stay in a master suite, with the ceremony taking place either inside the castle library or alfresco-style on the grounds. There will be a traditional piper and the hotel can provide two witnesses if necessary.
The package, starting at Dh18,680, includes daily breakfast, as well as special multi-course dinners.
The castle also has another Valentine’s Day package, starting at Dh75,000, that features two nights at the hotel and a two-night glamping experience on the island of Jura. It involves island hopping, as well as personal chefs and butlers.
More information is available at