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Sleepless in Dubai
From the author of My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding comes a hilarious, smart, and swoon-worthy rom-com about two teens traveling to Dubai for Diwali
In this hate-to-love romance, Nikki, an aspiring photographer, accompanies her family on a trip to Dubai to celebrate the five days of Diwali in style. It should be the trip of a lifetime, if Yash, the boy next door—with whom Nikki has a rocky history—weren’t on board.
Caught up in the festive spirit, Nikki’s family encourages her to get reacquainted with Yash. Turns out, a lot can change on a twelve-hour flight besides just continents. But can betrayals and conflicting ambitions be set aside long enough for the two teens to discover the true meaning of the Festival of Lights?
Perfect for fans of Tokyo Ever After and The Upside of Falling, this exuberant novel captures all the joy of family celebrations along with the heady exhilaration of first love.
In this hate-to-love romance, Nikki, an aspiring photographer, accompanies her family on a trip to Dubai to celebrate the five days of Diwali in style. It should be the trip of a lifetime, if Yash, the boy next door—with whom Nikki has a rocky history—weren’t on board.
Caught up in the festive spirit, Nikki’s family encourages her to get reacquainted with Yash. Turns out, a lot can change on a twelve-hour flight besides just continents. But can betrayals and conflicting ambitions be set aside long enough for the two teens to discover the true meaning of the Festival of Lights?
Perfect for fans of Tokyo Ever After and The Upside of Falling, this exuberant novel captures all the joy of family celebrations along with the heady exhilaration of first love.
Audible Audio
First published October 24, 2023
40 people are currently reading
4273 people want to read
About the author
Sajni Patel
10 books1,653 followersSajni Patel is an award-winning author of women’s fiction and young adult books. Her works have appeared on numerous Best of the Year and Must Read lists from Cosmo, Teen Vogue, Apple Books, Audiofile, Tribeza, Austin Woman, NBC, The Insider, and many others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
August 30, 2024
I hated this. We start off this book with Indian American teen Nikki breaking the $800 camera her father saved for and gifted her. All of this occurs as a misunderstanding with her friend Yash, who she spends the rest of the summer ignoring.
Nikki and Yash's families are quite close, and spend Diwali in Dubai. For a place so openly hostile to the Indian migrant community, I was surprised this wasn't mentioned once. I also found Nikki so grating, as she complained about excessive Indian food and camel milk chocolates. What makes camel milk "grosser" than cow milk?
Another reviewer pointed out part of this book reads like an Emirates ad. It does. And I know Emirates is top notch, but honestly, once you leave American domestic airlines, service tends to go up exponentially. Receiving extra snacks from your flight attendants isn't something special.
I figured out the big reveal long before it was shown. It's fine. You probably will, too. It was all too little too late, as I spent the entirety of this story upset and annoyed.
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Recorded Books
Nikki and Yash's families are quite close, and spend Diwali in Dubai. For a place so openly hostile to the Indian migrant community, I was surprised this wasn't mentioned once. I also found Nikki so grating, as she complained about excessive Indian food and camel milk chocolates. What makes camel milk "grosser" than cow milk?
Another reviewer pointed out part of this book reads like an Emirates ad. It does. And I know Emirates is top notch, but honestly, once you leave American domestic airlines, service tends to go up exponentially. Receiving extra snacks from your flight attendants isn't something special.
I figured out the big reveal long before it was shown. It's fine. You probably will, too. It was all too little too late, as I spent the entirety of this story upset and annoyed.
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Recorded Books
November 9, 2023
✨This one’s for the dramatic girlies who know how to hold a grudge 😘✨
I loved My Big Fat Indian Wedding and I absolutely loved Sleepless in Dubai just as much! I’d say it gives a bit more You’ve Got Mail than Sleepless in Seattle, but I’m not picky—especially when it comes to Nora Ephron love.
I can one hundred percent say, however, that it was an incredibly charming and cozy celebration of Diwali! What a perfect beginning of the holiday season read—something I’m absolutely desperate for right after Halloween.
I really enjoyed the slow burn romance between Nikki and Yash, as they had that former best friends level angst. The writing was as vibrant as the descriptions of Dubai. And the narration!! Gosh I loved the narrator, Soneela Nankani. If you’ve got the chance, I definitely recommend reading this via audiobook!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thanks so much to the publisher for an ALC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
I loved My Big Fat Indian Wedding and I absolutely loved Sleepless in Dubai just as much! I’d say it gives a bit more You’ve Got Mail than Sleepless in Seattle, but I’m not picky—especially when it comes to Nora Ephron love.
I can one hundred percent say, however, that it was an incredibly charming and cozy celebration of Diwali! What a perfect beginning of the holiday season read—something I’m absolutely desperate for right after Halloween.
I really enjoyed the slow burn romance between Nikki and Yash, as they had that former best friends level angst. The writing was as vibrant as the descriptions of Dubai. And the narration!! Gosh I loved the narrator, Soneela Nankani. If you’ve got the chance, I definitely recommend reading this via audiobook!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thanks so much to the publisher for an ALC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
September 22, 2023
Thank you so much to Sajni Patel for providing me with an ARC!
Another day of me wishing I was a FMC living in a Sajni Patel novel 😭❤️ The perfect, swoony Diwali romance!!
Another day of me wishing I was a FMC living in a Sajni Patel novel 😭❤️ The perfect, swoony Diwali romance!!
February 25, 2025
this is five stars purely based on vibes and my feelings because omg this was so cuteeeeeeee 🥹🥹
October 30, 2023
Eeeeeekkk! This audiobook is amazing! Teenage photographer, Nikki, is forced to spend time with her (ex) best friend, Yash, after a summer of avoidance following a falling out between the two when both their families take a trip to Dubai for Diwali. I absolutely loved everything about this book: the setting of Dubai sight seeing during Diwali's celebration week (foods and drinks galore!), Nikki's supportive parents and younger sister, Nikki and Yash's dynamic, and the focus of photography and visual art.
Sequel?! PLEASE!!
I will definitely be reading more by this author and listening to more audiobooks narrated by this voice actor! Very impressed.
Since I listened on audiobook, these quotes may not be completely accurate but they really stuck out to me:
"But one thing I've learned is that good friends are hard to find. We have superficial friends, acquaintances, people who shouldn't be trusted at all, passerbys. And then we have true, honest friends. And those friendships are like fine gold. We go out of our way to collect them, bring them securely into our lives, cherish them, protect them, maintain their beauty. It takes appreciation and work."
"We've only ever been in a bubble celebrating our culture. Here, there's no bubble. We're not othered. Not everyone here is the same, but we're part of the whole."
"Was this how Americans felt during Christmas? Like everyone just celebrated it? Or they assumed they knew what today was and was thrown around in a joyful anticipatory atmosphere boldly shimmering with holiday spirit out in the open?"
Sequel?! PLEASE!!
I will definitely be reading more by this author and listening to more audiobooks narrated by this voice actor! Very impressed.
Since I listened on audiobook, these quotes may not be completely accurate but they really stuck out to me:
"But one thing I've learned is that good friends are hard to find. We have superficial friends, acquaintances, people who shouldn't be trusted at all, passerbys. And then we have true, honest friends. And those friendships are like fine gold. We go out of our way to collect them, bring them securely into our lives, cherish them, protect them, maintain their beauty. It takes appreciation and work."
"We've only ever been in a bubble celebrating our culture. Here, there's no bubble. We're not othered. Not everyone here is the same, but we're part of the whole."
"Was this how Americans felt during Christmas? Like everyone just celebrated it? Or they assumed they knew what today was and was thrown around in a joyful anticipatory atmosphere boldly shimmering with holiday spirit out in the open?"
December 20, 2023
This was the perfect YA romance to read in one sitting. I absolutely loved the holiday vibes (the book is set during Diwali), but I especially LOVED the friendship between Nikki and Yash. They had a falling out prior to the book and haven't really spoken since, and it was amazing to see them grow closer again and reconnect and actually COMMUNICATE openly about their feelings. I definitely liked the romance between them, but them apologizing and making amends and sharing their feelings openly was my favourite part. I especially loved how open Yash was about how depressed their falling out and not talking to Nikki had made him feel.
December 14, 2023
I really loved this story. It was smart and funny and heartwarming too! I loved Nikki, stubborn and frustrating but funny and passionate too. Her relationship with her family was so special especially with her sister, Lilly. I loved the little bits of comedic relief she brought to the story and how she could make both Yash and Nikki blush. I really enjoyed the trip aspect of the book as well and felt like I was on the best tour bus ever getting the highlights of all the best places in Dubai. I spent some time looking up each place mentioned to learn more and see it firsthand and wow! What a city!? The mosque mentioned in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, is incredibly beautiful. I can see why it was mentioned and am happy I got to learn about it thanks to this book. The scenes with Nikki and Yash out together celebrating Diwali in the city at night where so perfect too. I could feel the excitement and energy of the moment. I also loved learning more about Diwali and how it is celebrated. It played the perfect part in the book as a reason to forgive and move forward together with joy and happiness. Oh and the food! I spent the whole time hungry as she described all kinds of delicious dishes especially the sweets! I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good romance read and wants to be an armchair tourist in Dubai as well.
I was provided a free ebook copy through Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review.
I was provided a free ebook copy through Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review.
May 20, 2025
loved the plot, didn't like her writing style
November 1, 2023
2.5 ⭐
I'm sad that I didn't love this as much as I wanted to.
The setting is amazing, I wanted to visit Dubai the entire time I was listening! The author did a fantastic job, there was just enough details about the setting that you could perfectly picture Dubai without it feeling info dump-y/too much.
but the characters is where the story lost me. The fight between Yash and Nikki was so immature, for some reason the whole fight was Nikki's fault when in reality they both messed up and both wouldn't own up to the fact they were BOTH in the wrong. Their friendship was toxic as hell. HOW WAS EVERYTHING NIKKIS FAULT?!?!?!? Yash was painted as this perfect kid who did no wrong and it was infuriating since half of the time he started the issues.
I just wished it was written differently. In no way is this a bad book and I know it will have its audience, I just don't think I was the main demographic! I feel like younger YA would really enjoy this, probably around 14-16 Y/O's!
Thank you Netgalley, Sajni Patel and RB Media for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
I'm sad that I didn't love this as much as I wanted to.
The setting is amazing, I wanted to visit Dubai the entire time I was listening! The author did a fantastic job, there was just enough details about the setting that you could perfectly picture Dubai without it feeling info dump-y/too much.
but the characters is where the story lost me. The fight between Yash and Nikki was so immature, for some reason the whole fight was Nikki's fault when in reality they both messed up and both wouldn't own up to the fact they were BOTH in the wrong. Their friendship was toxic as hell. HOW WAS EVERYTHING NIKKIS FAULT?!?!?!? Yash was painted as this perfect kid who did no wrong and it was infuriating since half of the time he started the issues.
I just wished it was written differently. In no way is this a bad book and I know it will have its audience, I just don't think I was the main demographic! I feel like younger YA would really enjoy this, probably around 14-16 Y/O's!
Thank you Netgalley, Sajni Patel and RB Media for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
did-not-finish
November 17, 2023DNF at 2%. The main female character comes off as a whiny child and I just don't have the patience to listen to this.
I appreciate receiving the audiobook as an advanced reader copy, but this is not going to work for me.
I appreciate receiving the audiobook as an advanced reader copy, but this is not going to work for me.
Read
October 28, 2023dnf, not my kind of read. read like a very young, young adult book about nothing. am not going to read it cause i was not the audience of this book.
May 4, 2023
Thank you so much to Amulet Books (ABRAMS) for the eARC.
An epic journey through Dubai, that takes you to all of the must-see sights, makes you enjoy the Diwali festivities in a city that belongs to all of its people, and understand the importance of new beginnings and forgiveness.
This book examines the different dynamics of different kinds of relationships. It shows you that big Indian family energy you only experience during festivals and get-togethers. It’s a book that teaches you about the cultural significance of Diwali and how it’s important to let go and embrace the change in the air.
I knew this would be a five-star read because this *is* a Sajni Patel book. I am obsessed with her books and her way of writing, especially her characters. And this book was no different.
Ok actually it was different, cause this book takes place in Dubai! (95% of the time) It was so good to see a book written about my home. This time I felt like the tourist guide, guiding Nikki and Yash through Dubai. I also stayed up all night reading this because of how good it was, so I guess I was also Sleepless in Dubai 😂.
Now enough about me and more about the book. This book like any other classic Sajni Patel, has a vivid description and imagery that makes you just fall in love with everything she writes. I loved how she described Dubai in all its glory, so brilliant and majestic. The characters are also so easy to relate to! Now usually when I read I find either of the leads to be most relatable to me, but here I was like their daughter. I have the pettiness of Nikki and the artistic side (and his ability to fall asleep anywhere) of Yash.
And yet, Nikki and I, we’re sisters. Like the way, we hold grudges and overthink things into oblivion? Yeah, we’re definitely related. And we’re both melodramatic as hell. I could also relate to the parent relationship. Especially the fights that happen over letting you go out alone (aka without them). And her photography! Now that's the passion and love a creative has. The technical explanation of what she was doing, went mostly over my head, but it was fun to read about the process. What I especially loved was the sister relationship between Nikki and Lily. Lily is an adorable monster that’ll tear you down with her sass. I could definitely see that typical sibling relationship where you hurt one of us, you’re definitely not going to end well. That bickering, yet protectiveness is something only siblings can bring out.
And let’s not forget our guy, Yash. Cause he’s great! Like any other Sajni Patel mmc. Idk how but all of them, are extra fine! From his artistic talents to his teasing and goofy side with Lily, he’s a lovely person. But what I loved best, was the way he would make her try new stuff and then, tell her what it actually was. Those scenes were hilarious. Also how he took Nikki around Dubai, somehow getting the parents' permission. And the way he replaced her camera? Swoon. He's a walking, talking green flag. Probably the Greenest green flag out there.
When the book starts, they’re kinda like ex-besties. So it’s up to the parents to get them together, and what better way than a 12-hour flight ride? And obviously, they come to some sort of truce. Nikki and Yash together are like a dream team. They’re the photographer gf x artist bf. I absolutely loved their dynamics and interactions. Tbh, I usually stay away from the friends-to-lovers trope, but she has made me fall in love with this trope as well. I guess the trope has one more fan under its wing now.
This book happens during Diwali, aka the festival of sweets and good food. So obviously, I was hungry reading all about the different sweets. So be warned that you might have serious cravings for Indian sweets once you’re done reading 😂 Since they’re tourists in Dubai, you definitely get to visit the main attractions with them, and I must say they’ve definitely checked off most of the stuff. And I guess it’s a Dubai thing where every festival is celebrated by everyone. :) Also being an Indian myself, I could definitely relate to a lot of the issues or concerns Nikki and her parents had.
I would definitely recommend you get the book and have some sweets on the side for the full experience :) I can't wait for October to hopefully somehow get a physical copy of this :)
An epic journey through Dubai, that takes you to all of the must-see sights, makes you enjoy the Diwali festivities in a city that belongs to all of its people, and understand the importance of new beginnings and forgiveness.
This book examines the different dynamics of different kinds of relationships. It shows you that big Indian family energy you only experience during festivals and get-togethers. It’s a book that teaches you about the cultural significance of Diwali and how it’s important to let go and embrace the change in the air.
I knew this would be a five-star read because this *is* a Sajni Patel book. I am obsessed with her books and her way of writing, especially her characters. And this book was no different.
Ok actually it was different, cause this book takes place in Dubai! (95% of the time) It was so good to see a book written about my home. This time I felt like the tourist guide, guiding Nikki and Yash through Dubai. I also stayed up all night reading this because of how good it was, so I guess I was also Sleepless in Dubai 😂.
Now enough about me and more about the book. This book like any other classic Sajni Patel, has a vivid description and imagery that makes you just fall in love with everything she writes. I loved how she described Dubai in all its glory, so brilliant and majestic. The characters are also so easy to relate to! Now usually when I read I find either of the leads to be most relatable to me, but here I was like their daughter. I have the pettiness of Nikki and the artistic side (and his ability to fall asleep anywhere) of Yash.
And yet, Nikki and I, we’re sisters. Like the way, we hold grudges and overthink things into oblivion? Yeah, we’re definitely related. And we’re both melodramatic as hell. I could also relate to the parent relationship. Especially the fights that happen over letting you go out alone (aka without them). And her photography! Now that's the passion and love a creative has. The technical explanation of what she was doing, went mostly over my head, but it was fun to read about the process. What I especially loved was the sister relationship between Nikki and Lily. Lily is an adorable monster that’ll tear you down with her sass. I could definitely see that typical sibling relationship where you hurt one of us, you’re definitely not going to end well. That bickering, yet protectiveness is something only siblings can bring out.
And let’s not forget our guy, Yash. Cause he’s great! Like any other Sajni Patel mmc. Idk how but all of them, are extra fine! From his artistic talents to his teasing and goofy side with Lily, he’s a lovely person. But what I loved best, was the way he would make her try new stuff and then, tell her what it actually was. Those scenes were hilarious. Also how he took Nikki around Dubai, somehow getting the parents' permission. And the way he replaced her camera? Swoon. He's a walking, talking green flag. Probably the Greenest green flag out there.
When the book starts, they’re kinda like ex-besties. So it’s up to the parents to get them together, and what better way than a 12-hour flight ride? And obviously, they come to some sort of truce. Nikki and Yash together are like a dream team. They’re the photographer gf x artist bf. I absolutely loved their dynamics and interactions. Tbh, I usually stay away from the friends-to-lovers trope, but she has made me fall in love with this trope as well. I guess the trope has one more fan under its wing now.
This book happens during Diwali, aka the festival of sweets and good food. So obviously, I was hungry reading all about the different sweets. So be warned that you might have serious cravings for Indian sweets once you’re done reading 😂 Since they’re tourists in Dubai, you definitely get to visit the main attractions with them, and I must say they’ve definitely checked off most of the stuff. And I guess it’s a Dubai thing where every festival is celebrated by everyone. :) Also being an Indian myself, I could definitely relate to a lot of the issues or concerns Nikki and her parents had.
I would definitely recommend you get the book and have some sweets on the side for the full experience :) I can't wait for October to hopefully somehow get a physical copy of this :)
November 9, 2023
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ARC provided by RB Media.
In this hate-to-love teen rom-com, Nikki, an aspiring photographer, accompanies her family on a trip to Dubai to celebrate the five days of Diwali in style. It would be the trip of a lifetime, if Yash, the boy next door, with whom Nikki has a rocky history, was not also on the flight.
Oblivious to the tension, Nikki’s matchmaking family encourages Nikki to get better acquainted with Yash. It turns out a lot can change on a 12-hour flight beyond just continents. But can betrayals and conflicting ambitions be set aside long enough for the two teens to discover the true meaning of the Festival of Lights?
Sleepless is Dubai is a YA book about love, second chances, forgiveness and family. This is such a sweet friends to enemies to lovers story. I really liked this story. It was such a cozy, heartwarming story. The relationship of Nikki with her family and Yash's was so sweet. I loved how Nikki and Yash worked to rebuild their relationship and how their connection slowly developed from friends to more. There was also a lot of great descriptions of Dubai, the food, and Diwali. I really enjoyed reading about the Diwali traditions the families celebrated. I just love reading about different cultures. And now it makes me want to visit. This was such a fun sweet YA read with some light romcom. It is perfect for anyone who loves an enemies to lover story, with just a little romance. If you want a holiday or vacation read, this one would be perfect. I cannot wait to read more by this author and see what other books this author publishes soon.
Rating: 3.5/5
In this hate-to-love teen rom-com, Nikki, an aspiring photographer, accompanies her family on a trip to Dubai to celebrate the five days of Diwali in style. It would be the trip of a lifetime, if Yash, the boy next door, with whom Nikki has a rocky history, was not also on the flight.
Oblivious to the tension, Nikki’s matchmaking family encourages Nikki to get better acquainted with Yash. It turns out a lot can change on a 12-hour flight beyond just continents. But can betrayals and conflicting ambitions be set aside long enough for the two teens to discover the true meaning of the Festival of Lights?
Sleepless is Dubai is a YA book about love, second chances, forgiveness and family. This is such a sweet friends to enemies to lovers story. I really liked this story. It was such a cozy, heartwarming story. The relationship of Nikki with her family and Yash's was so sweet. I loved how Nikki and Yash worked to rebuild their relationship and how their connection slowly developed from friends to more. There was also a lot of great descriptions of Dubai, the food, and Diwali. I really enjoyed reading about the Diwali traditions the families celebrated. I just love reading about different cultures. And now it makes me want to visit. This was such a fun sweet YA read with some light romcom. It is perfect for anyone who loves an enemies to lover story, with just a little romance. If you want a holiday or vacation read, this one would be perfect. I cannot wait to read more by this author and see what other books this author publishes soon.
Rating: 3.5/5
July 11, 2023
Thank you Sajni Patel, Edelweiss and Amulet Books for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
I love books by Sajni Patel and Sleepless in Dubai was no different. Nikki, the main character is a stubborn but funny and passionate about her dreams of photography. She gets into a fight with her best friend Yash and the two are on bad terms. Nikki's family and her former best friend, our MMC Yash's family plan to go to Dubai to celebrate Diwali. Nikki has to navigate this trip and mend her relationship with Yash while also building her photography portfolio.
I quite loved this book! The relationship of Nikki with her family and Yash's family was so sweet. I loved her sister, Lilly who was quite meddlesome, cheeky and also fun and it reminded all my antics with my own sister! There were a lot of amazing descriptions of Dubai, delicious food and of course, my favorite festival, Diwali <3 Nikki and Yash's story is about second chances and friendship to maybe something more. They were sometimes frustrating but mostly cute and sweet.
Sleepless is Dubai is about love, second chances, forgiveness and family and I recommend reading it if you like wholesome and sweet stories!
You should read Sleepless in Dubai if you love:
~ Travelling or Dubai
~ Food
~ Festivals
~ Family dynamics
~ Second chance romance
I love books by Sajni Patel and Sleepless in Dubai was no different. Nikki, the main character is a stubborn but funny and passionate about her dreams of photography. She gets into a fight with her best friend Yash and the two are on bad terms. Nikki's family and her former best friend, our MMC Yash's family plan to go to Dubai to celebrate Diwali. Nikki has to navigate this trip and mend her relationship with Yash while also building her photography portfolio.
I quite loved this book! The relationship of Nikki with her family and Yash's family was so sweet. I loved her sister, Lilly who was quite meddlesome, cheeky and also fun and it reminded all my antics with my own sister! There were a lot of amazing descriptions of Dubai, delicious food and of course, my favorite festival, Diwali <3 Nikki and Yash's story is about second chances and friendship to maybe something more. They were sometimes frustrating but mostly cute and sweet.
Sleepless is Dubai is about love, second chances, forgiveness and family and I recommend reading it if you like wholesome and sweet stories!
You should read Sleepless in Dubai if you love:
~ Travelling or Dubai
~ Food
~ Festivals
~ Family dynamics
~ Second chance romance
October 30, 2023
ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the narration on this book! It fit perfectly with the characters and I loved how it was culturally appropriate! I felt I learned a lot about Indian culture and all things Dubai, which I absolutely love learning about other cultures! The story was such a sweet rom com and while being predictable, still held my attention throughout. I enjoyed the humor and how even across different cultures and continents, love is love. I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes romantic comedies, traveling, and sweet young adult love stories!
I really enjoyed the narration on this book! It fit perfectly with the characters and I loved how it was culturally appropriate! I felt I learned a lot about Indian culture and all things Dubai, which I absolutely love learning about other cultures! The story was such a sweet rom com and while being predictable, still held my attention throughout. I enjoyed the humor and how even across different cultures and continents, love is love. I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes romantic comedies, traveling, and sweet young adult love stories!
December 9, 2023
The author kinda had an obsession with using the word butt. Examples being the fmc woke up at the butt crack of dawn and she sat with her butt a lot. I was dead. 💀💀 Three stars because of the butts and because it wasn't really a memorable book. It wasn't as funny as her first book.
December 4, 2023
This book was so cute! The perfect easy ya romance to get me out of my reading slump. I loved the characters, especially the girl, and really appreciated how their romance wasn’t too rushed. The plot twist at the end was kinda predictable from a mile away, but it’s okay because it added to the story. I want to go to Dubai now and try all the food in this book, i swear every single page there was a new description of something id never heard of that the characters loved.
quotes:
. . . I think I’m in love with you, and I would draw a million sketches to be with you.
It’ll take some time to mend your friendship, but one thing I’ve learned is that good friends are hard to find. We have superficial friends, acquaintances, people who shouldn’t be trusted at all, passersby, and then we have true, honest friends. And those friendships, beta, are like fine gold. We go out of our way to collect them, bring them securely into our lives, cherish them, protect them, maintain their beauty. It takes appreciation and work.
quotes:
. . . I think I’m in love with you, and I would draw a million sketches to be with you.
It’ll take some time to mend your friendship, but one thing I’ve learned is that good friends are hard to find. We have superficial friends, acquaintances, people who shouldn’t be trusted at all, passersby, and then we have true, honest friends. And those friendships, beta, are like fine gold. We go out of our way to collect them, bring them securely into our lives, cherish them, protect them, maintain their beauty. It takes appreciation and work.
April 2, 2024
Meh. Whiny, immature MC hates on the all-forgiving, patient, faithful boy next door who deserves a million times better in this (extremely) YA romance. The author’s attempt at sounding ~cool~ and ~young~ and ~hip~ came off as stilted, old, and cringy. The shocking plot twist was way too heavily foreshadowed, to the point where it was straight up told to readers I really wish that it would have been a little more discrete, but there was literally no one else it could have been, so I didn’t really care that much (especially since they reconcile … a page later? So, the stakes weren’t that high).
I thought the Dubai setting had potential, but there was too much of Nikki’s self-centered musings to make it stand out. This was written like it was for middle schoolers, not high schoolers/young adults.
I thought the Dubai setting had potential, but there was too much of Nikki’s self-centered musings to make it stand out. This was written like it was for middle schoolers, not high schoolers/young adults.
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March 25, 2024
I have to be honest: I am a known holiday novel hater. But Sleepless in Dubai...this book is the exception. I read this in a single sitting. It's the vacation read I didn't know I needed.
I was rooting for Nikki and Yash's relationship. I am such a sucker for former friends to lovers. They are so sweet together.
As someone who also travels across the world to see family, I found this to be so much fun. Their time in the UAE is a really romanticized trip, but that's what I loved most.
Bottom line: Don’t sleep on Sleepless in Dubai!
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I was rooting for Nikki and Yash's relationship. I am such a sucker for former friends to lovers. They are so sweet together.
As someone who also travels across the world to see family, I found this to be so much fun. Their time in the UAE is a really romanticized trip, but that's what I loved most.
Bottom line: Don’t sleep on Sleepless in Dubai!
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my blog!
January 29, 2024
This YA romance novel set in Dubai is such a breath of fresh air. I loved reading about the characters walking around Dubai, the various locations, the Dubai mall , the fun the 2 characters are having and the culture and festival atmosphere. I really enjoyed it .
November 9, 2023
Such a cute diwali story. Perfect timing with Diwali being right now🥰!! Love that it’s set in Dubai, can’t wait to go there myself one day.
January 25, 2024
Sleepless in Dubai is a super fun and cute YA rom-com with a cast of loveable characters. I enjoyed this story, but it was definitely predictable.
Thank you Netgalley for providing a digital ARC.
Thank you Netgalley for providing a digital ARC.
March 15, 2024
I Love 💕
January 7, 2026
Bruh I want to go to Dubai now
August 22, 2025
I thought this was a cute YA romance. I loved the slow burn friends to lovers kind of romance. I like how Nikki has a passion for photography and Nash loves art and wants to be an artist. I like how they are close with their families and they can always come together during the holidays.
May 24, 2024
I really need to stop reading romance books with minimal plot
November 1, 2023
Sleepless in Dubai is a really cute friends to lovers story set during Diwali in Dubai! Nikki and Yash have been friends since childhood but they had a falling out and are now forced to go on a trip together.
This ones started out a little slow for me but I really enjoyed the the story once Nikki and Yash started to realize they had feelings for each other. I really loved seeing Yash open up and talk about what the summer had been like for him. I loved that drawing was a way for him to be happy during a hard time.
I didn't find Nikki to be the most compelling heroine. She came off a bit selfish at times and as if she wasn't thinking about others. However, that's how teenagers are! It's probably good that as a 28 year old I felt like she was a bit immature. It means she's well written.
If you are looking for a cute Diwali story or you want a cute friends to lovers story I recommend this one!
I listened to the audiobook version of Sleepless in Dubai and really enjoyed it! It is single narrator and the narrator is Soneela Nankani whose narration I really enjoy! I also liked her performances of Pride Prejudice and Other Flavors and Dating Dr. Dil!
Thanks to RB media and Netgalley for letting have access to this one in order to do my review. All opinions are my own.
This ones started out a little slow for me but I really enjoyed the the story once Nikki and Yash started to realize they had feelings for each other. I really loved seeing Yash open up and talk about what the summer had been like for him. I loved that drawing was a way for him to be happy during a hard time.
I didn't find Nikki to be the most compelling heroine. She came off a bit selfish at times and as if she wasn't thinking about others. However, that's how teenagers are! It's probably good that as a 28 year old I felt like she was a bit immature. It means she's well written.
If you are looking for a cute Diwali story or you want a cute friends to lovers story I recommend this one!
I listened to the audiobook version of Sleepless in Dubai and really enjoyed it! It is single narrator and the narrator is Soneela Nankani whose narration I really enjoy! I also liked her performances of Pride Prejudice and Other Flavors and Dating Dr. Dil!
Thanks to RB media and Netgalley for letting have access to this one in order to do my review. All opinions are my own.
September 26, 2024
rep: indian
yash and nikki used to be best friends and when his car rolled over her precious and expensive camera, it seemed like that friendship will never be a thing anymore. for dwali, yash and nikki’s families decided to take things into their own hands and forced a reconciliation to happen aka a dubai trip. during the trip, they did hash things out and their friendship became (somewhat) normal.
the spirit and celebration of dwali was so beautifully captured. the music, the light, the people, and the food! everything was wonderfully described and enjoyed by the characters. dwali in dubai sounds absolutely magical. the emphasis of family during times of celebration warmed my heart.
my goodness, this was so adorable. yash had always been in love with nikki and that’s obvious to everyone. however, nikki just needed a little nudge and boy, did their family tried their best. she soon realized her feelings and they had so many cute moments!!!
yash and nikki used to be best friends and when his car rolled over her precious and expensive camera, it seemed like that friendship will never be a thing anymore. for dwali, yash and nikki’s families decided to take things into their own hands and forced a reconciliation to happen aka a dubai trip. during the trip, they did hash things out and their friendship became (somewhat) normal.
“Be the light. No matter how much our flame dims over the year, this is a time for renewal. Don’t let the negative energy keep you in the dark. Bring your flame back to life, let it roar, and be brighter than ever, beta.”
the spirit and celebration of dwali was so beautifully captured. the music, the light, the people, and the food! everything was wonderfully described and enjoyed by the characters. dwali in dubai sounds absolutely magical. the emphasis of family during times of celebration warmed my heart.
my goodness, this was so adorable. yash had always been in love with nikki and that’s obvious to everyone. however, nikki just needed a little nudge and boy, did their family tried their best. she soon realized her feelings and they had so many cute moments!!!
February 22, 2024
the writing was not for me. at all.
October 26, 2023
This was a really sweet and heartwarming story. If you liked "With the Fire on High" you'll for sure enjoy Sleepless in Dubai. This was my first book by Sajni Patel, and I really loved her ability to create complex, realistic, and lovable characters.
I was totally invested in the friends to enemies to lovers romance, and felt like I learned a ton about the main characters' cultures along the way as they travel to Dubai to celebrate Diwali. Also, Lily, Nikki's little sister is just the best side character anyone could ask for.
Ultimately this is a book for anyone interested in travel, culture, festivals, and wants to watch a really sweet second chance romance bloom. With Diwali coming up in November, I highly recommend adding it to your TBR!
I'm really grateful to #NetGalley and RB Media for allowing me access to this audio arc! I found the audio recording to be really great, and really appreciated hearing the narrator, Soneela Nankani pronounce some words and cities I wouldn't have been sure about if I were just reading on a page!
I was totally invested in the friends to enemies to lovers romance, and felt like I learned a ton about the main characters' cultures along the way as they travel to Dubai to celebrate Diwali. Also, Lily, Nikki's little sister is just the best side character anyone could ask for.
Ultimately this is a book for anyone interested in travel, culture, festivals, and wants to watch a really sweet second chance romance bloom. With Diwali coming up in November, I highly recommend adding it to your TBR!
I'm really grateful to #NetGalley and RB Media for allowing me access to this audio arc! I found the audio recording to be really great, and really appreciated hearing the narrator, Soneela Nankani pronounce some words and cities I wouldn't have been sure about if I were just reading on a page!
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