The best places to propose in Dubai

Get down on one knee on the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa at SKY lounge, officially the highest observation deck on the planet. Taking romance to new heights, the lounge offers sprawling views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf. You won't know if it's the pre-proposal nerves or the extreme height that’s making your heart race. For even better views, we recommend planning your special moment close to sunset.

Sailing through the sky in a hot air balloon is one of the most romantic experiences imaginable. Couples can glide across the Dubai desert on a private morning balloon ride, where you'll get to soak in views of the magnificent golden sands as the sun appears over the dramatic Hajar Mountains. Get the timing right with the proposal and your once-in-a-lifetime moment could even see falcons soaring past and wildlife roaming below. Let the team in on your plans, so the captain can help record little snippets and capture a few photos that can be used for instant social media announcements.

If you are a fully-certified diver, plunge into the waters of The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm to pop the question amid 65,000 marine animals. The luminescent colours of the venue’s aquatic surroundings glow with romance. Write your proposal with the help of the staff and get ready for your life to change. Remember to book a photographer in advance to capture her reaction as you float by with the sharks and stingrays.

Be inspired by José Bastón's picture-perfect proposal to Hollywood star Eva Longoria and plan your own special moment at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Access to the UAE's first national park is carefully regulated to protect local wildlife, which makes a trip here all the more special. Luxury tour operator Platinum Heritage offers a series of once-in-a-lifetime desert experiences that can be easily booked online. Alternatively, check with the team to see if they can arrange a bespoke surprise.

Although a popular tourist destination in its own right, Dubai Miracle Garden could possibly be the cutest spot to pop the question. The unique garden features endless blooms, record-breaking arrangements, secluded pathways and heart-shaped floral arches, so there are plenty of backdrops for the magical moment. Also in this special place is Dubai Butterfly Garden, where thousands of colourful species fly freely within custom-made domes. If you stand still enough, you can expect a few to land on your hands too.

An Arabian resort that makes dreams come true, start your stay at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa with a five-star spa treatment to unwind before soaking in the sunshine by the pool. Ask the resort staff to set up a private dinner table among the rolling sand dunes in the desert, where you can watch the sun cast a golden light over the striking landscape, home to a cornucopia of local flora and fauna. Afterwards, under a star-lit sky, express your love in style.

Forget hiring your own yacht, when you can make the moment even more spontaneous onboard a traditional abra. This bespoke boat ride on the waterways of Madinat Jumeirah is an idyllic setting to get down on one knee without being surrounded by curious bystanders. With Arabian-style architecture and the famous Burj Al Arab in the background, capture awe-inspiring engagement photos that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

The Dubai Fountain never fails to impress and manages to charm visitors every time. Make sure you get here on time to secure a spot that's not too crowded and has the perfect view to enjoy the show. Or you can even make a reservation at one of the many restaurants, which offer instagrammable vistas of this iconic attraction for a more private experience with your loved one.

For an offbeat proposal, head to Ski Dubai to be surrounded by snowy scenery while you make it official. You can ride the romantic chairlift and hit the slopes to ski or snowboard. After all the frosty fun, give your partner an even bigger rush by going down on one knee. You can also check in to an Aspen-style chalet overlooking the indoor ski resort to make a day out of it.

More adventurous nature lovers can plan a getaway to Hatta Dam. From hiking to cycling and kayaking, there’s plenty to do here before or while you pop the question. Surprise your special someone with a staycation at JA Hatta Fort Hotel or Hatta Dome Park (during the winters), or go just for the day and picnic in the most picturesque moutainside setting.