Galentine's Really Is The New Valentine's // 7 Ways to Celebrate

Who said you needed a romantic partner for Valentine’s Day to feel complete? This year, we’re rewriting the rules and it all starts with Galentine’s.

1. Throw a Girls’ Night That Deserves a Dress Code

Think pyjamas, messy buns and cosy vibes with candles, fairy lights, and a playlist that jumps from throwback R&B to full main-character energy. Add comfort food that hits, cocktails or mocktails in cute glasses and a movie lineup you’ll half-watch while laughing, talking, and quoting iconic lines.

Raemona picks: Need some bottles to pop? Head to mmihomedelivery.ae/loveInBloom for some special Galentine's offers. We're also going to be ordering FIX Dessert Chocolatier's limited-edition Heart Minis Box featuring ten ‘Can’t Get Knafeh Of It’ bites in milk, dark, and white chocolate. (Available exclusively on Careem for a limited time, priced at AED 160.)

2. Community, Colours & Sips

Grab your besties and dive into a day (or night) of creative chaos! Whether it's a pottery class where hands get messy, vases wobble in all directions, and everyone’s laughter echoes louder than the spinning wheels or something a little more chilled like a candle making or paint & sip session – It’s not about perfection, it’s about the stories, the inside jokes, and the quirky masterpieces you all leave with...

Raemona's Pick: Endless Sip & Paint: Valentine’s Edition offers a relaxed, creative morning designed for connection, self-expression, and community. Set in a beautiful beachfront location and with full art supplies provided, breakfast coffees, and fresh fruit platters, it’s an easy, feel-good way to celebrate friendship – no art experience required.

Details: Friday, 13 February 11am, Maison De La Plage, AED 270. Book HERE.

3. Main character // Solo Date

   
   

Plan a true main-character solo date by buying yourself flowers and a good book, then settling into a cute café with no rushing and no distractions. Peet’s Coffee is perfect for this, especially if you’re in the mood for really good matcha and quiet “me time.” Follow it up with a solo movie night complete with popcorn you don’t have to share, just you fully enjoying the moment. As the day winds down, take yourself out for a sunset walk, a peaceful beach stroll, or a city night drive with a fire playlist playing in the background. End it all with a little retail therapy, no guilt, no explanations, just treating yourself because you can.

Raemona's pick: If you're in Abu Dhabi this weekend, Mint Market's Valentine’s Pop-Up Market at Al Seef Village Mall is worth a visit. Bringing together a curated selection of local creators and distinctive finds, it's easy to pick up something meaningful, personal and a little different.

Details: Saturday, 14 & Sunday, 15 February 11am to 7pm | Al Seef Village Mall, Abu Dhabi | Free entry

4. Spread the Love: Galentine’s Giving

Valentine’s Day is all about love, but who says it has to be romantic? This year, celebrate the day by spreading it around. Grab your girls and give back together -  volunteer at a local shelter, put together thoughtful care packages, or support women-led small businesses with a little shopping spree (drop your recommendations in the comments). Sharing kindness feels just as good as receiving it, and it’s the perfect way to honour friendships while making a positive impact.

5. Plan a Wellness Reset Together 

   
   

Skip the usual Valentine’s frenzy and turn the day into a soothing escape; whether it’s hydrating facials, a little beauty refresh, or just some quiet, feel-good self-care together. If you want something a little more elevated, Cornerstone Clinic with Dr. Maurizio Viel is offering seasonal Valentine’s perks until the 15 February, making it the perfect excuse to glow together without going overboard…because love comes in all forms, and a glow-up session with your girls is definitely one of them.

Raemona's pick: Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk offers a pampering experience combining a 45-minute couples’ massage at Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, a three-course Mediterranean lunch at Soleil Pool & Lounge, and full-day pool access. Available from 1–15 February 2026, the experience is priced at AED 850 per couple and is ideal for unwinding, reconnecting, and making time for one another.

6. Create A Vision Board for 2026

Magazines? Check. Stickers? Check. Glitter? Obviously. Gather your girls, grab some snacks, pour your fave drinks, blast your ultimate playlist, and go wild crafting vision boards for 2026. What better way to manifest amazing things than with your girls by your side? Map out your dream trips, career moves, self-care goals, and even those little everyday joys you’ve been craving.

Raemona's pick: Vision Board & Vino Night at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown (Feb 13): A Galentine’s rooftop experience at Orange Feels Pool Bar blending a guided vision board workshop with free-flow wine, gourmet cheese and sweet treats, live DJ beats, and a curated wellness goodie bag – all designed to celebrate friendship, intention-setting, and self-care under the stars. hotelindigodubai.com

7. Eat pizza and be happy

Grab the girls and share heart-shaped pizzas at Falcone during Valentine’s week (Feb 9–15), with a Hatta Honey drizzle and exclusive cherry gelato bringing sweet Galentine’s energy to the table. Buon appetito! Visit @falconedxb to find out more.

Have an amazing weekend!

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