Dubai shimmers with the hues of romance as Valentine’s Day approaches, but amidst the amorous aura, a vibrant community of singles awaits to partake in the festivities. No longer solely reserved for couples, Valentine’s Day now embraces all forms of love.
Yasmin Musa, a British expat, plans to celebrate “Galentine’s Day,” an ode to female friendship. She and her companions will revel in a girls’ night out, relishing in fine dining and camaraderie, highlighting the significance of cherishing platonic bonds. 
Meanwhile, Hisham from Sharjah, though yet to celebrate Valentine’s Day romantically, cherishes friendship dearly. Opting for a serene desert BBQ with friends, he embraces the day’s essence without overcomplicating it.
Leem Gorashi, a Sudanese expat, eagerly anticipates a Valentine’s Day outing with her single friend, opting for a dinner and bowling rendezvous, complete with small gift exchanges, echoing the sentiment that companionship transcends romantic entanglements.
For Alaa Mustafa, a British expat, Valentine’s Day symbolizes a deeper connection beyond materialistic expressions. Embracing the day with family and friends, she acknowledges the roots of love that shape her perception of relationships, affirming that meaningful connections lay the groundwork for love in all its forms.