Joey Essex and Sam Faiers look set to tie the knot after the 22-year-old reality star popped the question to the blonde beauty during a romantic break in Dubai.

Joey Essex and Sam Faiers have got engaged.

The 'Only Way is Essex' couple are to tie the knot after Joey popped the question to his blonde bride-to-be during a romantic break in Dubai, but he nearly didn't propose after being hit with a bout of nerves.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Joey had already bought a ring and wanted everything to be perfect, which is why he chose Dubai as he knows Sam loves it there.

"He was still overcome with nerves before asking and nearly didn't go through with it."

On last night's episode of 'TOWIE' Joey told his proposal plans to Sam's sister Billie Faiers, explaining to her he wanted to take the blonde beauty away somewhere special.

He said: "Basically I want to propose to Sam. I've had it planned for ages but I want to do it in the right way.

"I don't know how to put it in a professional manner."

Billie was delighted with the news and replied: "She isn't going to have a clue."

Later on Joey showed Billie the stunning engagement ring he has purchased for Sam, 21, and she described it as "perfect".

As the episode reached its climax, the 22-year-old star shocked Sam at the roller disco party - where she was wearing a 1980s fancy dress outfit - by asking her if she wants to go to Dubai, and she replied: "What in this?"

The drama surrounding the proposal will be screened on Wednesday night's episode of 'TOWIE' on ITV2 at 10pm, and preview clips show Joey in tears on the phone to his father as he tries to muster up the courage to pop the question.