The ultimate Valentine's date

THE CULTURE DATE

Budget
If you want to start your Valentine's celebrations on February 13 - it's never too early to celebrate love, we think - head to The Fridge, Dubai's local culture hub, for Colombian vocalist Eddi Duarte's debut concert. The evening promises to be a Latino fiesta with original music from Eddi across genres from bachata to merengue. OnV-Day itself, you can treat yourselves to a modern-day Shakespeare fest at The Picturehouse cinema in Dubai Mall, which is screening the acclaimed Coriolanus.

Need to know: The Fridge is inAl Quoz; Dh50 per person; 7:30pm onwards; www.thefridgedubai.com. The Picturehouse tickets cost Dh30, www.reelcinemas.ae

Blowout
Fancy dinner and a show? Book tickets for Drama Dubai's special Valentine performance of romantic comedy Almost, Maine at the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (Ductac). The evening combines a gourmet five-course dinner and a beverage at K-Grill restaurant, Kempinski Hotel, with the love-fuelled play that is sure to make you laugh while pulling at your heartstrings.

Need to know: Show tickets with Valentine's dinner cost Dh415 per person and can be booked at www.timeouttickets.com or Ductac box office. Dinner-and-show packages also offered for February 16, 17 and 18, see www.dramaworkshopsdubai.com

THE SPA DATE

Budget
Head to the healing oasis that is Awazen Spa, a retreat that offers a mini getaway within the heart of the city.

The Pamper Spa Break couples package includes a Rose foot-soak ritual, a 60-minute Romantic red rose massage, and an organic Love your skin facial using herbs, fruits and spices, to leave your skin soft and smooth, and have you both feeling relaxed. Plus, you get fruity drinks and a spa gift to take home.

Need to know: Located at Fraser suites Dubai; Dh399 for two. Call 04 4401444

Blowout
The luxe Ahasees Spa is Dubai's newest address for indulgent pampering, sowhere better to treat yourself and your partner to a two-hour Arabesque treat?The Valentine's day ritual starts witha Coffee and grapefruit body polish, followed by a customised aromatherapy massage, and is finished with a Radiant rose pomegranate facial. The spa is also home to extensive facilities includinga gorgeous pool and luxurious relaxation lounge, so you can turn this spa date intoa fully fledged spa day.

Need to know: Located at the Grand Hyatt Dubai; Dh1,760 per person. Call 04 3172333

THE GETAWAY BREAK

Budget
The chalet-style Hatta Fort Hotel is a time-tested weekend-break favourite, and forgood reason - nestled in the Hajjar mountains, the picturesque resort offers a truly romantic escape, even though it's just over an hour's drive away. The hotel's Valentine's package includes a luxurious overnight stay with chocolates, strawberries and candles in your room, plus a five-course gourmet dinner, and breakfast with a beverage the next morning.

Need to know: Dh1,650 per couple from February 9-14; the hotel also offers a variety of other packages starting from Dh395 per person. Call 04 8099333

Blowout
If you're after no-holds-barred luxury, look no further than the Banyan Tree Al Wadi desert resort in Ras Al Khaimah. The exclusive all-villa resort set in the midst of a desert wildlife reserve offers complete privacy ina sumptuous setting with opulent decor, private pools and a luxe spa. Their Valentine's package includes a Valentine-themed set-up in the villa, plus an in-villa breakfast. Make it extra special with a Destination dining experience which means you enjoy a private dinner at a unique location on the resort's sprawling grounds.

Need to know: From Dh3,000 per couple with Destination Dining dinner. Call 07 2067604

THE DINNER DATE

Budget
Forget the same-old, traditional candlelit restaurants and sweep your date off his or her feet with a Valentine voyage on board Al Mansour Dhow. The two-hour dinner cruise along the creek offers welcome mocktails, a huge spread of love-themed five-star food - think seafood thermidor, smoked salmon, and heart-shaped cake - glittering skyline views come free!

Need to know: Cruises are two hours long and start at 8:30pm; Dh199 per person. Call Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek,04 2057333

Blowout
Few things evoke romance as much as Venice, so unless you're booked on a flight to Italy opt for the next best thing and head to Dubai's very own Venetian corner in DIFC, the authentic Caffé Florian. The sophisticateddecor and live concerto trio provide a very sophisticated setting for you to indulge ina four-course romantic dinner with special beverages, oysters and edible rose petals.

They also throw in flowers for the lady as you leave, making falling in love all over again easier than ever.

Need to know: Located in Dubai International Finance Centre; Dh295 per person.Call 04 3231833