It’s time to test if the saying “love don’t cost a thing” is really true. If you’ve got a special someone in your life, but don’t have the means to flash the cash on every single date, we’ve got your back. There’s a lot of expectations when it comes to date night in Dubai, so here’s a few killer ideas for those looking to impress on a budget…
For the cocktail couple
If you’re both cocktail lovers, we’ve found an awesome spot that has a killer Happy Hour. Head down daily between 5:30pm and 8pm for discounted cocktails at JLT’s popular Cocktail Kitchen.
The Cost: During Happy Hour, you’re looking at around AED 19 for selected drinks.
For the sushi lovers
Offering a different take on your usual sushi restaurant, we’ve scoped out a unique concept that fuses the best of Japanese and Nepalese food. We’re talking Cheesy Chips Oman Maki and Potato, Cheese & Corn Momos. We’ve been to Moshi to get you the inside scoop on their super-original menu.
The Cost: Momos start from AED 16 and Makis start from AED 14.
For the competitive couples
If you’re looking for an old school kinda date night, you can’t beat a good ol’ game of bowling. Switch things up at one of our fave futuristic-style bowling joints, decked out with colourful UV disco lights, large screens and funky tunes.
The Cost: Go on a weekday and you’ll pay AED 20 per game.
For the romance lovers
What could be more romantic than a stroll around The Dubai Fountain while admiring the magical sparkle of the Burj Khalifa? What’s best, watching the fountain show is absolutely free! Pair it with an ice cream from Souk Al Bahar’s Booza and you’re good to go.
The Cost: The fountain show is free to watch. A small cup from Booza is around AED 20.
For the cultured couple
Does your ideal date night involve admiring artwork? It’s time you spiced things up with a stroll around one of the many art galleries in the city. Check out our review of Ayyam Gallery to find out why it’s one of our favourite picks, or take a trip to trendy City Walk for some street art lovin’ followed by a bite to eat.
The Cost: Entry to the Ayyam Gallery is free.
For the pet partners
If you’re not willing to do date night without your pup, then why not bring him/her along. Surrounded by trees, wildlife and mangroves, take a stroll through Al Qudra Lakes and enjoy the great outdoors with your date and your pooch. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect. Tip: head down during sunset for a romantic setting.
The Cost: It’s free!
For the fitness couple
Working on your #fitnessgoals? If you’re an athletic couple and want to show off your skills, a Flywheel session ought to do the trick. Flick to our review to find out more about its stadium-style seating and custom-designed bikes. Warning: expect to sweat a lot, so we wouldn’t recommend this for a first date!
The Cost: The trial class is free.
For the shisha lovers
We’ve found a quirky café (more like a secret hideaway) that offers over 20 types of tea, South Asian snacks and shisha. The best part? Tea Junction offers a daily ‘Happy Hour’ from 10am to 4pm.
The Cost: During Happy Hour, the hubbly-bubbly will cost you AED 23.
