If you’ve ever opened your Facebook app, scrolled through the menu, and wondered, “Where is the Facebook Dating icon?”—you’re not alone. Many people want to try Facebook Dating but get stuck at the very first step: enabling the Dating icon and creating a Dating account.
The truth is, Facebook Dating doesn’t always show itself clearly. It’s not a separate app, it doesn’t automatically activate for everyone, and it doesn’t appear unless certain conditions are met. That’s why so many users get confused or think Facebook Dating doesn’t work for them.
The good news? Once you understand how it works, enabling Facebook Dating and setting up your account is actually very easy.
In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through everything—step by step. You’ll learn how to enable the Facebook Dating icon, fix common issues when it doesn’t appear, and create a Dating account that’s ready to attract real matches.
Let’s break it down the simple, human way.
What Is Facebook Dating? (Quick Overview)
Facebook Dating is a free dating feature built directly into the Facebook mobile app. It’s designed to help singles meet people based on shared interests, location, groups, events, and preferences.
Unlike most dating apps:
- There’s no separate download.
- No paid subscriptions
- No swiping pressure
- And no notifications sent to your Facebook friends
Your dating profile is separate from your main Facebook profile, so your friends won’t know you’re using it unless you tell them.
Why the Facebook Dating Icon Is Important
The Dating icon (a small heart symbol) is your gateway to Facebook Dating. Without it:
- You can’t create a dating profile.
- You can’t see matches.
- You can’t chat with singles.
If the icon isn’t visible, Facebook Dating is essentially locked for you. That’s why enabling it is the most important first step.
Who Can Use Facebook Dating? (Eligibility Requirements)
Before trying to enable the Dating icon, make sure you meet Facebook’s basic requirements:
- You must be 18 years or older.
- You must use the Facebook mobile app (Android or iPhone).
- Your Facebook account must be in good standing.
- Facebook Dating must be available in your country.
- Location services must be enabled.
If any of these requirements aren’t met, the Dating icon won’t appear.
How to Enable the Facebook Dating Icon (Step-by-Step Guide)
Let’s get straight into the practical steps.
Step 1: Update Your Facebook App
This is the most common reason the Dating icon doesn’t appear.
Facebook Dating only works on newer versions of the app.
What to do:
- Open Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone).
- Search for Facebook.
- Tap Update if available.
After updating, close the app completely and reopen it.
Step 2: Make Sure Facebook Dating Is Available in Your Country
Facebook Dating is available in many countries, including:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- South Africa
- India
- Australia
- Most European and Latin American countries
If Facebook Dating isn’t available in your location, the icon will not show—no matter what you do.
Step 3: Turn On Location Services
Facebook Dating relies heavily on location to match you with nearby singles.
If location is turned off, the Dating icon may not appear.
On Android:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Location
- Turn location ON.
- Make sure Facebook has permission.
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Privacy & Security.
- Tap Location Services.
- Turn it ON.
- Set Facebook to “While Using the App.”
Restart the Facebook app afterward.
Step 4: Open the Facebook Menu
Now it’s time to look for the Dating icon.
- Open the Facebook app.
- Tap the Menu (three horizontal lines).
- Scroll down to All Shortcuts or Services.
If Facebook Dating is available for you, you’ll see a heart icon labeled “Dating.”
Tap it to continue.
What to Do If the Facebook Dating Icon Is Missing
If you still don’t see the Dating icon, don’t panic. This happens to many users.
Here are proven fixes that work.
Fix 1: Clear Facebook App Cache (Android Users)
Old cache files can block new features.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Apps.
- Select Facebook.
- Tap Storage.
- Tap Clear Cache.
Reopen Facebook and check again.
Fix 2: Log Out and Log Back In
This refreshes your account connection.
- Go to Menu.
- Scroll down.
- Tap Log Out.
- Log back in.
Then check the menu again.
Fix 3: Reinstall the Facebook App
This works surprisingly well.
- Uninstall Facebook.
- Restart your phone.
- Reinstall Facebook.
- Log in
- Check for the Dating icon.
Fix 4: Turn Off VPN
If you’re using a VPN, Facebook may think you’re in a country where dating isn’t supported.
Turn off your VPN and restart the app.
Fix 5: Check Your Age on Facebook
If your Facebook profile shows you’re under 18—even by mistake—the Dating icon will never appear.
Go to:
- Profile → About → Basic Info
- Confirm your date of birth is correct.
Fix 6: Use the Main Facebook App Only
Facebook Dating does not work on:
- Facebook Lite
- Desktop browser
- Messenger
You must use the main Facebook mobile app.
How to Create a Facebook Dating Account (Step-by-Step)
Once you tap the Dating icon, Facebook will guide you through setting up your Dating account.
Here’s what the process looks like.
Step 1: Tap “Get Started.”
After tapping the Dating icon, you’ll see a welcome screen.
Tap Get Started to begin.
Step 2: Confirm Your Dating Preferences
Facebook will ask you to select:
- Who you’re interested in (men, women, everyone)
- Age range
- Distance radius
- Location
These preferences help Facebook suggest better matches.
Step 3: Create Your Dating Profile
Your dating profile is separate from your main Facebook profile.
You’ll need to:
- Choose profile photos.
- Write a short bio.
- Answer profile prompts.
- Add interests.
You can import photos from Facebook or upload new ones.
Step 4: Add Profile Prompts (Optional but Powerful)
Prompts help your profile stand out.
Examples:
- “The one thing you should know about me is …”
- “My idea of a perfect day is …”
- “Two truths and a lie …”
Answer honestly and keep it light.
Step 5: Review and Publish Your Profile
Before going live:
- Review your photos.
- Check your bio.
- Confirm your preferences.
When you’re ready, tap Confirm.
Your Facebook Dating account is now live.
What Happens After You Create a Facebook Dating Account
Once your account is active, you can:
- See suggested matches.
- Like profiles
- Start conversations.
- Use Secret Crush
- Match with singles near you.
Facebook Dating focuses on meaningful connections, not just endless swiping.
What Is Secret Crush on Facebook Dating?
Secret Crush lets you select up to 9 Facebook friends or Instagram followers you’re interested in.
If they add you too, it’s a match.
If they don’t, they’ll never know.
It’s private, safe, and surprisingly effective.
How Facebook Dating Matches Work
Facebook suggests matches based on:
- Location
- Shared interests
- Groups and events
- Preferences
- Profile activity
You won’t be matched with:
- Your Facebook friends (unless via Secret Crush)
- Blocked accounts
Tips to Set Up a Strong Facebook Dating Profile
Creating an account is just the beginning. Optimization matters.
Use Clear, Recent Photos
Avoid blurry or old pictures.
Write a Simple, Honest Bio.
Don’t overthink it. Be real.
Stay Active
Engagement improves visibility.
Respond Politely and Quickly
This increases match success.
Common Facebook Dating Setup Problems (And Solutions)
Problem:The dating icon disappeared.
Solution:Log out, update the app, and restart.
Problem:Matches not showing
Solution:Checkocation and pppreferences.
Problem:Can’tmessage matches
Solution:Update the app and check restrictions.
Is Facebook Dating Free?
Yes. Facebook Dating is 100% free.
No subscriptions.
No hidden fees.
No premium upgrades.
That’s one of its biggest advantages.
Is Facebook Dating Safe?
Facebook Dating includes:
- Blocking options
- Reporting tools
- Separate profile
- Location privacy
You control who sees you and who contacts you.
Can You Delete or Pause Facebook Dating?
Yes.
You can:
- Pause your profile.
- Delete your dating account.
- Restart later if you want.
Your main Facebook account remains unaffected.
Why Facebook Dating Is Worth Trying
Facebook Dating stands out because:
- It’s free.
- It uses real profiles..
- It focuses on shared interests..
- It’s great for local dating..
For many users, it feels more natural and less stressful than traditional dating apps.
Final Checklist Before Using Facebook Dating
Make sure:
- Your app is updated.
- Location is on
- The profile is complete.
- Photos are clear.
- Preferences are accurate.
Do this, and you’ll start strong.
Conclusion
Enabling the Facebook Dating icon and creating a Facebook Dating account don’t have to be confusing. Once you understand the requirements and follow the right steps, the process is smooth and surprisingly simple. From updating your app to setting up your profile, every step brings you closer to meeting real people who share your interests.
Facebook Dating is a powerful, free tool for singles—and when used correctly, it can lead to meaningful connections without pressure.