Gift-giving is stressful business. You can’t be too specific or suggestive and you can’t be generic. The trick with giving great gifts is knowing the receiver’s personality type.
The question you ask then is: What would they appreciate most? A meaningful object they can unwrap and keep, an experience that turns into a memory, or something that is useful on a daily basis.
We’ve got them all here in this round-up of creative last-minute gifts:
1. Let them make you laugh
This is one for you and for them. If they have a fear of public speaking, are extraordinarily funny, or need work on their people skills, get them a gift class voucher for Dubomedy’s Stand-up Comedy 101 class.
The class meets 8 times over a 7-week term ending with a final public performance on March 11.
When: Classes are from 2pm to 4pm, Saturdays, January 28 to March 11 2017
How much: AED 1,200 Gift voucher [normally AED 1,500 – Bonus: Save 20% if you buy it this week – no refunds]
To save your spot, call 800 COMEDY.
2. Give the gift of new time
This will burn a hole in your pocket, but it’s a sophisticated gift. The TAG Heuer Connected watch combines the elegance and class of traditional wristwatches, with some cutting edge changes.
With Google and Intel, the watch has a multitude of connectivity options including audio streaming, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi as well as allow users to harness the full range of features offered by the Android Wear operating system.
How much: AED 37,000
3. Have them channel their imagination with Skylanders
One for the gamers. They can create their own Skylander and bring them to life and in to battle, in the ultimate adventure with a special guest appearance by 90’s PlayStation icon Crash Bandicoot.
Using his whirlwind spin, TNT crates, and devastating yo-yo Sky-Chi attack, the world’s most beloved bandicoot is about to crash Kaos’ party.
How much: starting AED 249
Competition: Share this article with a friend and tag us to win a copy of this game!
4. Have a scandalous chat over high tea
Not every gift comes wrapped. If you haven’t seen them for a while, take time out and have quality chit-chat with Afternoon High Tea at Angelina with delectable canapés, yes and juices, and desserts like the signature Mont Blanc – a pastry with a balance of meringue, whipped cream and chestnut cream vermicelli.
If you visit on Wednesdays, you can sway to a live cello performance by Clara Asuaje.
Where: Angelina, Dubai Mall/MOE/Yas Mall
How much: High tea for two at AED 220
When: 3pm to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday
5. Declare love that they can eat!
Candylicious has a magic candy factory that lets you create personalized messages in 3D candy! Or give them spun candy that they can snack on. Add to that a selection from the 5,500 types of confections at Candylicious World, and you’ve got yourself a sweet gift!
Where: Candylicious World, Dubai Mall
6. Be their fairy godmother
At N.Bar and JetSet, give your loved one an express treatment while they sip on complimentary hot chocolate. Their Cinderella package includes:
JetSet Blow Dry
N.Bar Express Mani
15 minutes: Dry pedicure OR Head, Neck & Shoulder massage
Where: N.Bar & JetSet, Grosvenor House Hotel.
How much: Varies depending on length of hair. Call +971 4 437 0177 for info.
7. Help her get fit in a cool ensemble
If she’s serious about sport, the Adidas Pureboost X trainer (AED525) will tick every box on her wish-list: it adapts to the runner’s foot-strike, and allows for freedom of movement while providing a boost.
Under Armour’s compression sports bra (AED140) fits like a second skin providing comfortable support while making a statement with graphic prints.
Where: Stadium [Jumeirah Beach Hotel, BurJuman, DCC, DFC, Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina Mall]
How much: Ensemble for approximately AED 665
8. Get her a make-up brush kit
Your mum, sister or SO probably already has all the make-up she needs. So, instead, get her a classy MadBrushes. It lasts longer than lipstick, is highly functional and shows you care about her skin.
Where: Paris Gallery
How much: AED 570
9. Get him a Ted Baker gentleman’s shoe shine kit
A man’s shoes say a lot about him. Give him this old-school shoeshine kit that will make him feel refined.
Where: Virgin Megastores
How much: AED 170
You’ll love: 8 Scrumptious Feasts for Christmas Eve, Day & Boxing Day in Dubai