Swipe, match, chat… sounds simple, right? Well, in the UAE, dating apps come with their own little twists. They’re not banned, but they do operate under unique rules. Just know if you ever have to use VPN to access the app, it’s most definitely not meant for you to use in the first place. So, while apps you’re familiar with like Bumble, Tinder and Hinge don’t work in the country, I’ve got your covered with some alternative apps that work just as well. Keep reading to know where you can find your Personal match online in the UAE (without breaking any rules).
Also read: Proof You’re Unmatched: 15 Spots In Dubai That Will Haunt Your Ex’s Feed
Best Alternative Dating Apps Allowed In The UAE
1. Muzz
If you’re looking for something serious and culturally respectful, Muzz (previously known as Muzmatch) is a favourite in the UAE. It’s designed with Muslims in mind, promoting marriage and long-term relationships rather than casual encounters. The app is huge globally, with over 10 million users and half a million success stories. It also takes privacy seriously, offering features like photo blurs and strict profile checks. Since it aligns closely with cultural values in the UAE, it’s one of the safer and more accessible options on the list.
Visit Muzz’s website for more information and to download their app!
2. Badoo
Badoo has been around for years and is still going strong in the UAE. It’s more than just a dating app. many people also use it to just make friends or expand their social circles. The “people nearby” feature is especially popular, letting you discover matches in your area quickly. While Badoo is easy to download and use in the UAE, some users have reported running into fake profiles or scams. Still, with the right precautions, it can be a fun way to meet people.
Visit Badoo’s website for more information and to download their app!
3. OkCupid
If you’re the type who wants a match based on more than just a picture, OkCupid is worth trying. The app asks you loads of questions to figure out your personality and then connects you with people who are most compatible with you. It’s available in the UAE, but there have been reports of hiccups, like issues with SMS verification or features that don’t always work smoothly depending on your network. That said, if you manage to get on, it’s one of the more thoughtful dating apps out there.
Visit OkCupid’s website for more information and to download their app!
4. Happn
Happn takes a more unique approach. It connects you with people you’ve actually crossed paths with in real life. So, if that person you noticed at a café or walking down Jumeirah Beach also has Happn, you might just match. It’s a cool idea, but because it relies heavily on location services, privacy-conscious users in the UAE might feel a little hesitant. Still, many locals and expats keep it on their phones for the fun of those unexpected “near misses” turning into something more.
Visit Happn’s website for more information and to download their app!
5. Inner Circle
Think of Inner Circle as the more polished, professional cousin of mainstream dating apps. Instead of letting anyone sign up, it reviews and approves profiles to keep the community “exclusive.” It’s popular with expats and working professionals in Dubai who want to meet like-minded people. The app also organizes events and mixers, making it more than just online dating. The only downside? It isn’t cheap, and some users complain about limited matches. But if quality matters more to you than quantity, this might be the one.
Visit Inner Circle’s website for more information and to download their app!
6. Plenty of Fish (POF)
Plenty of Fish (or POF, as it’s better known) has been around forever, and it’s still accessible in the UAE. It’s free to use, but most people say the good features are locked behind paywalls, which can be frustrating. On top of that, it’s known for having a lot of inactive or fake profiles. While it’s not the most glamorous option, it still attracts a fair share of people who prefer a straightforward, no-frills app.
Visit Plenty of Fish‘s website for more information and to download their app!
7. Luxy
If exclusivity and luxury are your thing, Luxy is the app that might catch your eye. It’s marketed toward successful and “high-value” singles, with membership tiers that can get pretty pricey. The app verifies profiles carefully and maintains a polished, upscale vibe. Some people love it for the security and exclusivity, while others find the subscription fees steep and the approval process a little slow. Either way, it’s definitely a more niche option in the UAE dating scene.
Visit Luxy’s website for more information and to download their app!
