Will you marry me? The most romantic proposal spots across the Mideast

When you find the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, you start mentally preparing yourself to pop the big question. Traditionally in the Middle East, prior to proposing, the man must ask for the father’s permission to marry his daughter. At that point, the cat is out of the bag and the whole family, including your significant other, will know.

This could spoil the surprise but if you really want to amaze your significant other, we have a few tricks up our sleeve that are guaranteed to catch them off guard, granting you an epic surprise proposal.

Let’s start by tackling the formalities. Consult a close member of your significant other’s family first, express that you would like to keep the proposal a surprise and meet with her father when she isn’t around (preferably a member of her family can keep her occupied).

Nowadays there are so many different ways to propose; adding a personalised touch to your proposal customised around both of your personalities will always score you extra points. Below is a list of this year’s top destinations in the Middle East to pop the question.

Egypt

Hot Air Balloon in Luxor

Aim sky high, book a romantic hot air balloon ride in Luxor and enjoy the scenic views of the Nile River and Egypt’s landmarks. The early bird catches the worm, or so they say, and to that end the adventure begins around dawn. You will be able to admire the sunrise over the mountains. A truly romantic environment and the perfect time to bend down on one knee and make a certain someone very happy.

Jordan

Wadi Rum

Deep in the heart of Jordan lies one of the most magnificent deserts of all time - Wadi Rum. You are surrounded by steep mountains and pink sand, the sky is so clear that at night you can almost see all the stars (keep your eyes pealed for shooting stars!). There are two ways of proposing in this amazing location: a day proposal or a night proposal. If you opt for the daytime, then we recommend you explore the area by hiking through the beautiful mountains and make your way to the top. The scenic views will simply take your breath away and it is the perfect time to pop the question. The night is just as beautiful as the day, set the mood with a campfire under the stars.

Petra

Having earned the nickname “rose city” for its breath taking architecture carved into pink sandstone cliffs, you can traverse the five kilometre walk to the Khazneh (temple) or hop onto a camel for a true desert experience. As she is admiring the views, catch her off guard by proposing. Alternatively, wait till the evening when they light up the Khazneh area with candles. It’s very romantic so ask someone to take a video or photo of the proposal for a keepsake - the footage may be something you would like to add to your wedding trailer.

Lebanon

Faraya Mzaar

Escape the hot temperatures of the desert for somewhere much cooler. Take your proposal to a different level in Mzaar Kfardebian, located one-hour away from central Beirut. This wide ski area is regarded as one of the most scenic and entertaining resorts in Lebanon. Plan a fun-filled day of skiing, ride the gondola lift and admire the picturesque snowy mountains. You may not be able to get down on one knee while riding the gondola but popping the question seated high over the mountains is still romantic.

Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah has four hotels linked to one another through a souk. Once you have chosen a suitable hotel, speak to a member of their team to arrange a private dinner set up on the beach. Dine under a tent on the beautiful sandy beach overlooking the landmark Burj Al Arab. End the evening with a romantic proposal.

Burj Khalifa

If riding a hot air balloon isn’t your thing, then head to the top of Burj Khalifa and admire the Dubai skyline, if you dare to look down you will find a beautiful water fountain display synchronised with different styles of music. Propose over dinner or even afternoon tea.

Sky Dive over the Palm Jumeirah

For the real dare devils and adrenaline seekers, propose moments before jumping out of a plane! This is one of the most exhilarating and fun ways to pop the question. You won’t be the first though as, surprisingly, skydiving has become an increasingly popular way to propose. Just make sure to keep the ring somewhere safe!

Oman

Private cruise

The Gulf of Oman is home to some of the most beautiful marine creatures on earth. Take a dive in the ocean and explore the deep waters, hire a private boat and be greeted by the swimming dolphins. For a swoon-worthy proposal, end the night on a romantic note admiring the sunset while floating over the Gulf of Oman.

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