Diwali 2026: When and where to celebrate in the UAE
Diwali, or Deepawali, is one of the biggest festivals in South Asia. In countries such as India and Nepal, where the festival of lights is a major holiday, many splash out on big purchases such as jewellery, televisions, cars and property. Some even choose to buy new homes at this time. Symbolising the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, Diwali usually falls in early autumn,…
Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is a significant festival celebrated in South Asia, particularly in countries like India and Nepal. This festival of lights symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness, and typically falls on the new moon night of the Hindu lunar calendar, marking the darkest night of the year. This year, Diwali begins with Dhanteras on November 6, with main Diwali on November 8.
The festival is predominantly a Hindu celebration, but it is also observed by Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists. For many Hindus, Diwali honors the Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, by welcoming her with lights and lamps, thereby bringing prosperity. However, others view it as a celebration of the return of the Hindu deity Ram to Ayodhya after rescuing his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana.
In the UAE, where Indians form the largest part of the population, Diwali is celebrated extensively, with cities like Dubai lighting up their neighborhoods to mark the occasion. The Global Village in Dubai, for instance, will host various cultural performances, family activities, shopping, and entertainment from November 6 to 10. A notable highlight is a drone show on November 8, featuring 600 UAVs lighting up the sky above the Stunt Arena and Syria Pavilion, inspired by the Festival of Lights.
To celebrate, visitors can enjoy traditional South Asian musical gatherings known as baithak, games, prize opportunities, festive melas, face painting, diya coloring, rangoli-making, and a variety of Indian dishes such as pani puri, pav bhaji, chole bhature, and traditional mithai. All these activities are included in the Global Village admission ticket, starting at Dh25.
Similarly, Baps Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi will also host religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and family activities from November 6 to 10, including traditional pujas, Maha Annakut Darshan, and cultural experiences.
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