Unwind at Dubai's top romantic getaways

Nestled in a leafy palm oasis, Al Maha Desert Resort is a five-star destination offering its guests an immersive experience of desert life. Each villa opens up to pristine sand dunes, ensuring complete privacy for guests. However, the privacy comes with a few interesting exceptions, as curious herds of Arabian gazelle and oryx visit the resort for an early morning graze. Soak in a private pool, go on a camel-back excursion and enjoy private falconry and archery lessons, all on-call. For an extra special occasion, have a private chef and butler prepare your meal at your villa.

Just a 40-minute drive from Dubai’s centre, Bab Al Shams manages to feel a world apart from the bustle of the city. Hidden within an Arabian-style fort, the resort offers a sense of seclusion with all the benefits of a five-star hotel. Relax in a luxurious suite appointed with thick Turkish rugs, carved woodwork and high sandstone ceilings, or explore the surrounding sand dunes while on a safari. Couples can also enjoy a blissful experience at Satori Spa or take in the sunset on the Al Sarab elevated rooftop. Immerse yourself in the sandy realms of this magnificent property, feel comforted by nature and cherish the conversation and calm with your partner.

Known for its well-heeled polo competitions, spa hotel Meliá Desert Palm is just 20 minutes away from Downtown Dubai, making it a favourite for both locals looking for a refreshing night away and the horse-loving crowd. The boutique resort has 38 guest rooms, as well as private suites, where visitors can enjoy peace and tranquility in abundance. Stretching across 65 hectares of lush lawns and greenery, this beautiful location is perfect to give your loved one a memorable afternoon. The best part? You can also request a private picnic for two in the grove, beneath the 300-year-old Tuscan olive trees.

Those looking for a sea-change can follow the curved roads of Palm Jumeirah through to Waldorf Astoria, a five-star ocean resort. A sunseeker’s paradise, you can enjoy a mild sea breeze and an elegant soft sand beach. The calm, turquoise waters welcome a number of easy-going watersports, although lounging poolside also proves to be a popular pursuit. By evening, choose from one of many restaurants, including Italian fine dining stalwart Social and Vietnamese delights at LAO. For further relaxation, be sure to stop by the award-winning spa for a bespoke massage or a traditional hammam.

Just down the road from Waldorf Astoria on Palm Jumeirah lays a relaxation destination that's poles apart in terms of style. Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort whisks you away to the serene Thai islands of Koh Samui and Phuket, without losing Dubai's elegant touch. The resort is best-known for its temple-inspired villas that line a turquoise lagoon or come with their own private pool. Along with 400m of shoreline, guests can indulge in pampering unlike any other at the hotel's award-winning spa and Turkish hammam. Revel in this getaway that takes you away from the city, but not too far – Dubai's glittering skyline twinkles across the water from beyond your window.