Tinder block forcing singles to look for love via old-fashioned all-you-can-eat-and-drink methods

The recent move to block images on popular dating app Tinder has forced singles across the UAE to search for potential partners via a somewhat traditional route: the all-you-can-eat boozy brunch.

Restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have reported a surge in demand for Friday brunches over the past few weeks, with those looking for love now turning to the old-style method of unlimited house beverages as they wait for cupid’s arrow to strike.

“Just a few weeks ago I could go on my phone from the comfort of my sofa, begin a hassle-free conversation with a man also hoping to meet that special someone for fun and adventure, and maybe, further down the line, arrange to meet up for sophisticated banter in a candlelit bar,” said Mandy Deerstalker, an Australian expat in Dubai.

“But following the Tinder ban I’ve been forced to look for the one while queuing with a fully loaded plate at the buffet table and while off my face on Jagerbombs. Sure, the overall figures still match, but it’s costing me a fortune and has played merry hell with my diet.”

Rehan Costa, 31, said he used to be a regular user of Tinder as part of his ongoing quest to meet Mrs Right.

“But recently I’ve had to sit down for five hours of solid eating and drinking and hope romance lands before I pass out,” he admitted. “It just feels so outdated, like something my parents would have done.”

However, Costa admitted his experience using the app had affected his efforts searching for the perfect partner, and he’d found himself shouting “swipe left” at women who he didn’t believe matched his desired characteristics.