Valentine’s Day may be a celebration of love, but it’s also a day of excess. Every year, the often dubbed Hallmark holiday generates a staggering amount of waste, from millions of plastic-wrapped chocolates to cut flowers – that have been flown halfway across the planet and that wilt within days – to mountains of glittery, foil-lined cards that end up in landfills, we say I love you at a huge environmental cost.
So this year, skip the fleeting gestures and embrace experiences that are meaningful. From luxurious eco-conscious dining to soothing spa retreats and beachside escapes, sustainability and romance can go hand in hand. To help you out, here’s our curated guide to the most memorable – and mindful- Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Dinner & Drinks
Secret Garden Dinner at Delano Dubai, Bluewaters
If you’re really looking to impress – and splash out – this Valentine’s Day, Delano Dubai has just the ticket. Set against the backdrop of Bluewaters, this destination is offering an exclusive Secret Garden Dinner, designed for couples who want the ultimate romantic escape. Nestled in lush greenery, the private dining experience features a special tasting menu – vegetarian on request -, perfectly paired with champagne and house wine. At AED 10,000 per couple, it’s a slightly extravagant way to celebrate love, but some moments deserve nothing less than pure eco-luxe.
Eco-credentials: Delano Dubai is committed to reducing food waste, minimising waste sent to landfills, collecting coffee grounds for recycling, and conserving water. Priced at AED 10,000 per couple. Delanodubai.com
Wow with Water at Nara on the Sea, Dubai Festival City
For a really romantic night out, Nara on the Sea – operated by the team behind Sonara Desert Camp – is offering dinner aboard the Lady Nara dhow. Departing from Dubai Festival City, couples can sail into the sunset or under the stars while gliding past the city’s most iconic sights including the tranquil Ras Al Khor mangroves. The menu by French Chef Gregory Khellouf features Mediterranean and Emirati inspired dishes with the option for a Champagne upgrade to set the mood for toasting love on open waters.
Eco-credentials: Operators, Sonara Camp are known for their sustainable practices, including using solar energy and minimising waste. The Dinner Cruise (from 8 pm to 10 pm) on the upper deck with a three-course meal starts from AED 690
A Beachside Escape at Zing, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Celebrate love (and sustainability) this Valentine’s Day with a romantic beachside escape at Zing Beach, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah. The hotel is offering couples a private cabana with breathtaking ocean views from where you can toast the evening with a chilled bottle of Prosecco and enjoy chocolate-dipped strawberries. From sunset to midnight, it’s the perfect way to create unforgettable memories with your Valentine by the sea.
Eco-credentials: Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah champions reduced energy consumption, efficient water use, and responsibly sourced ingredients in their dining experiences. Prices start from AED 999 per couple Hilton.com
A Six-Course Love Affair at Punjab Grill
Skip the usual dinner date and head to this Michelin-recognised six-course feast at Punjab Grill. With locations at Anantara, Downtown Dubai and The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi, this romantic culinary journey starts with avocado pani puri, followed by delicate vegetarian dumplings, refreshing lychee ceviche, and rich mains like Lotus Stem Kofta, all culminating in a dessert trio featuring Chocolate Fondant, Rose Petal Gelato, and 24-carat gold Coconut & Lime Gateaux. Each couple receives a surprise hamper with a rose, homemade chocolates, and a scented candle.
Eco-credentials: The restaurant offers a dedicated vegan menu that emphasises the use of locally sourced ingredients while supporting regional agriculture. Packages start at AED 499 per couple, with premium upgrades available. Punjabgrill.me
Valentine’s Vegan Feast at Planet Terra
Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with Planet Terra’s vegan 3-course menu. Starting with Burrata Bruschetta, followed by indulgent mains like Seitan Steak or Sweet Potato Ravioli, and finishing with a decadent Chocolate Caramel Mousse, this menu is free of preservatives, GMOs, and animal products. End the evening with chocolate-covered strawberries and sip on the Valentine’s special Love Elixir, a heart-shaped fruit-infused non-alcoholic creation.
Eco-credentials: Planet Terra’s entirely vegan menu minimises the environmental impact of food production, while their commitment to sourcing local, organic ingredients ensures both freshness and reduced food miles. Packages start at AED 200 per person – https://planetterra.life/
Experiences
Romancing the Stone at Cinq Mondes Spa, Raffles the Palm
At the award-winning Cinq Mondes Spa, the tranquil surroundings create the perfect setting for a romantic day out. Cocooned in this elegant spa, couples can enjoy one hour in the thermal suite, followed by a 60-minute soothing Hot Stone massage in a premium VIP suite, to feel refreshed and renewed for the evening ahead. The package also includes access to private changing facilities, steam room, sauna, and shower facilities.
Eco-credentials: Cinq Mondes Spa feature products free from parabens, silicones, and artificial colours, using only natural and organic ingredients. Priced at AED 1,300 per couple. rafflesthepalm
A Spa Escape with L’Occitane at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk
For a Valentine’s escape that’s all about relaxation, Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane is offering couples the chance to unwind together with a 60-minute signature massage. Infused with L’Occitane’s responsibly sourced botanical oils, the treatment is complemented by access to steam rooms, saunas, and jacuzzis. Guests can also enhance the experience with a private poolside cabana, fully redeemable with an F&B credit for AED 300.
Eco-credentials: Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk has been awarded the Green Key Certification for the second consecutive year, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices. Prices start from AED 750 per couple wellness.dubaitheobelisk@sofitel.com.
Gifts
A Love That Grows: Gift a Tree This Valentine’s Day
Tired of cliché Valentine’s gifts? This year, give a present that lasts – a tree that grows along with your favorite song. Whether your love is rock ‘n’ roll, pop, or timeless like an evergreen classic, there’s a musical Limited Edition tree to match. Simply choose a tree, add a song, and when your loved one opens their tree page, they’ll hear the soundtrack you picked, reliving special memories every time. If your Valentine prefers a gift they can taste, try Doña Lucero solidarity coffee, ethically grown in Guatemala by indigenous women.
Eco-credentials: Must we explain? Prices start from AED 57. treedom.net
Sweat Together, Stay Stronger: Veo Fitness’ Valentine’s Offer
This Valentine’s Day, Veo Fitness is spreading the love with a special offer for new members. Sign up before February 14th, and you’ll receive two complimentary guest passes, because nothing says ‘I care’ like inspiring someone to put their health first. More than just a gym, Veo is a community-driven fitness hub, offering everything from HIIT and cycling to yoga and sound healing. Whether you’re pushing limits in a GX class, training one-on-one, or unwinding with complimentary pool access, there’s something for everyone.
Eco-credentials: Skip the foil-wrapped chocolates and gift an experience that lasts. Prices start from AED 599 veofitness.com
Nine Frames’ Dubai-Designed Sunglasses
Looking for a stylish and long-lasting Valentine’s gift? Nine Frames, the Dubai-based eyewear brand offers a chic yet responsible way to show your love. Handcrafted from premium, durable materials, each limited edition pair is designed for both fashion and function, with spring hinges, scratch-proof lenses and superior UV protection. These sunglasses are made to last, just like your love.
Eco-credentials: Nine Frames minimises waste, prioritises quality over fast fashion, and packages its sunglasses in vegan leather cases. AED 710 nineframes.ae
And for those that well, don’t like Valentine’s
Anti-Valentine’s Quiz Night at Garden on 8, Media One Hotel
This Valentine’s, ditch the clichés and head to garden on 8 at Media One Hotel for a night of laughs and fun at the Anti-Valentine’s Day quiz, hosted by the hilarious duo Jono and Rich. From February 14th to 16th, gather your friends, grab a drink, and enjoy a lighthearted evening of competition and entertainment. Who needs hearts and roses when you can have jokes and great company? À la carte pricing keeps it casual and fun for everyone!
Eco-credentials: From sustainable sourcing for their food to robust waste reduction initiatives, this Green Key Certified hotel keeps the planet in mind. mediaonehotel.com
