Diwali is all about lights, sweets, music, and time with the people you love. This year, the Festival of Lights is filling the UAE calendar with dance shows, light installations, temple celebrations, and workshops for kids.
Most of these events happen in the next few days, so it helps to pick early. Here’s where to go.
Dubai
1. Noor: Festival of Lights
Noor returns to Souk Al Seef with two days of culture and music. The opening Noor Procession features Dhol Tasha and light puppets. After that come Sufi Soundscapes by The Shams, Bhangra Queens by Nazm Kaur and performances by Jasbir Jassi and Sooraj Santhosh, along with storytelling and dance.
Where: Souk Al Seef, Dubai
When: November 7 to 8
Cost: No entry fee
2. AYA Universe
If you’d rather walk through glowing worlds than watch a stage show, AYA Universe is a good pick. You can explore 12 different worlds filled with interactive installations and bright visuals, plus plenty of spots for photos. The Source, a refreshed celestial experience, is worth a look too.
Where: Wafi City, Oud Metha, Dubai
When: Dates not listed, so check before you go
Cost: From AED 135
Abu Dhabi
3. WTC Abu Dhabi
Here, Diwali shopping comes with games and prizes. Spend AED 200 or more at the mall and you can play a Diwali themed game where lighting lucky diyas could win you a prize. There’s AED 100,000 worth of Aldar Gift Cards up for grabs, and spending more unlocks more diyas and festive experiences.
Families can also try henna, creative workshops for kids and a special workshop for the whole family.
Where: Liwa Street, Al Danah, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi
When: Until November 8
Cost: No entry fee (the game needs a mall spend of AED 200 or more)
4. BAPS Hindu Mandir
The mandir is hosting Diwali and Maha Annakut 2026 from November 6 to 10.
- November 6: Dhanteras Pujan
- November 7: Hanuman Puja and cultural performances
- November 8 to 10: Maha Annakut Darshan with elaborate food offerings, Diwali Chopada Pujan and hourly aartis
There’s also a Ganga Aarti at Swaminarayan Ghat, which many visitors find especially memorable. If you’re visiting a place of worship, dress modestly and follow the on site guidance.
Where: P6 Al Taf Road, E16, Abu Mreikhah, Abu Dhabi
When: November 6 to 10
Cost: No entry fee
Sharjah
5. Dilwali Diwali at Safari Mall Sharjah
This mall celebration runs for two days with something for every age. Kids can join art and craft sessions or enter the Rangoli Contest. On stage, you’ll see an LED Butterfly Dance, Bollywood and kids’ dance acts, traditional Dandiya and a high energy Dhol Bhangra.
Where: Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road, Muwaileh Commercial, Industrial Area, Sharjah
When: November 6 and 7
Cost: No entry fee
Ras Al Khaimah
6. Shub Diwali Fiesta at Safari Mall
Over two days, Safari Mall Ras Al Khaimah hosts a Rangoli Contest, Dandiya and Bollywood performances, Dhol acts and a festive fashion show.
Where: Al Hisn Road, Al Araibi, Ras Al Khaimah
When: November 7 and 8
Cost: No entry fee
Quick Summary
| Event | City | Dates | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Noor: Festival of Lights | Dubai | Nov 7 to 8 | Free |
| AYA Universe | Dubai | Not listed | From AED 135 |
| WTC Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi | Until Nov 8 | Free |
| BAPS Hindu Mandir | Abu Dhabi | Nov 6 to 10 | Free |
| Dilwali Diwali, Safari Mall | Sharjah | Nov 6 to 7 | Free |
| Shub Diwali Fiesta, Safari Mall | Ras Al Khaimah | Nov 7 to 8 | Free |
Five of the six are free to enter, so a family outing doesn’t have to cost much.
Tips for Planning Your Diwali Weekend
Go early to the free events, since popular ones get crowded in the evening. Wear comfortable shoes, and keep a small bag so it’s easy to move through crowds. If you’re heading to the mandir, check for any dress or timing rules at the entrance. With kids, pick one main event per day so nobody gets tired.
Since several events overlap, you could plan a route. For example, you could visit the BAPS Hindu Mandir on one day and a mall celebration on another.
More Festive Fun in Dubai
If you’d like another place for Diwali celebrations, Global Village has a programme from November 6 to 10. It’s also offering free entry on November 7 for visitors who bought a ticket on November 6. Only 3,100 free tickets are available, so read how to claim yours.
And if you’re planning something quieter for after the festival, you might enjoy learning a new skill. Our guide on free AI courses in the UAE, with how to enrol and who’s eligible has a few ideas.
Whether you want to dance at Noor, wander through AYA Universe or visit the BAPS Hindu Mandir, there’s a Diwali plan for your family. Check the dates, pick one or two events and enjoy the Festival of Lights.