Diwali or Deepawali is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in South Asia. From India, this is festival of lights celebrated to dethrone the power of darkness and evil in the world. Despite its strong Associations with Hindu rituals, Diwali is also celebrated by Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists all over the world. The celebration is much a similarly boisterous business in Dubai, where there is a huge population of Indian and other South Asians.
This year Diwali festival starts from October 29 which with Dhanteras and Diwali is on November 1. There are a number of days dedicated to the event in Dubai making residents and visitors be able to experience as many as they would wish. Whether it is a spectacular firework show, a cultural event, or a promotional offer, here is how you can celebrate Diwali in Dubai.
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When is Diwali Celebrated in 2024?
Diwali celebrations will commence with Dhanteras on the 29th of October and the main Diwali will be celebrated on October 31 this year. The lunar phase of the new moon is called Amavasya Tithi and occurs during the month of October 31 to November of 1 with slight differences in the timings of celebrations among different communities. However, there will be no shortage of the holiday atmosphere throughout almost the entire Dubai – it will be challenging to find a place that remains uninvaded by a festive mood for at least two weeks.
1. Diwali Fireworks
Special lighting fireworks will illuminate the skyline of Dubai in connection with the Diwali celebration. The main firework displays will take place at two iconic locations:
- Al Seef: Fireworks will be on Friday October 29th at this waterfront promenade along the Dubai creek.
- Global Village: There will be fireworks in the cultural and entertainment center on October 29 to 30, and November 1 to 2 at 9 in the evening.
2. Noor, Festival of Lights at Al Seef
From October 29, Al Seef will present the Noor Festival of Lights where guests of different age will be able to aware about the traditional Diwali through the artworks with the use of lights, performances and different activities. Indian food, song and dance, poetry recital, and puppetry show can be seen and experienced by visitors of the turban shop. The 1.8 km promenade is also set to have colourful motifs to be turned into the cultural fest to mark Diwali.
3. Diwali Market at Global Village
Global Village, that celebrates cultures of various countries, will have Diwali Market at India pavilion. Here guest can learn more about the numerous traditional craft of India as well as traditional dresses and delightful Indian street food available in Chaat Bazaar. On the main stage cultural dances and live performances will be done to help create a festive mood during the occasion. The market will be conducted from October 28 up to November 3.
4. Deep Utsav at Glendale International School
Deep Utsav is an evening programme which includes entertainment programmes, games, competitions and activities that would help families find a Diwali celebration full of laughter and enjoyment. The dinner-dance is set at Glendale International School on October 27: Food choices will range from samosas to chapati and other traditional Indian foods, with food stalls and family entertainment, this occasion is perfect for families.
- Date: October 27
- Time: From 4 PM
- Location: Oud Metha, Dubai
- Ticket Price: AED 20 (free for kids under 10)
5. Diya-Shaped Croissants by Cocoa & Chilli
Diwali sweets can be enjoyed in a particular manner through Cocoa & Chilli’s Diwali limited edition diya-shaped croissants. These croissants are made in the shape of traditional earthen lamps and there are six variants of the croissant each of which has the name of the deity related to the festival. It includes fillings such as shrikhand whipped ganache and banana salted caramel that adds a novelty to Diwali sweets.
- Price: AED 180 for a box of 12
- Location: Al Mina Rashid, Dubai
Also Read: Top 5 Best Hookah Bars Near Me in Al Karama That Have Great Vibes
6. Diwali Bingo Nights at Mahi Café
Attend Mahi Café and Shisha Lounge’s Bingo Nights every week that goes in celebration of Diwali. That is not all – guests can also play bingo and relish Diwali sweets such as ladoos and kaju katli besides the interior that has all the trappings of Diwali.
- Date: Every Thursday until October 30
- Time: 7 PM to 10 PM
- Location: Al Nahda 2, Dubai
- Price: AED 45, which includes a starter, a beverage, and a Bingo card
7. Sugargram’s Festive Sweets
Sugargram has just launched a special Diwali bonbon set, which was based on Indian sweets such as rabri, coconut barfi and rasagulla. All of these delicious sweets and dry fruits are packed neatly in sleek black or silver papers; ideal if they are intended to be gifts for Diwali or to be relished on those festive occasions. Sugargram also supplies mini sweet saffron-flavored cake for a celebration.
- Price: AED 170 for a box of 25 bonbons, AED 140 for a box of cupcakes
- Available Online
8. Bateel’s Diwali Collections
Luxury brand Bateel has unveiled two special collections for Diwali: Lavanya and Florise. These collections have quite a number of gift sets for sale that can be personalized with organic filled dates, selected origin chocolates and the traditional Indian sweets. As with the previous releases, the meticulous packaging suits gift giving and contributes to the holiday experience.
- Price: Gift boxes starting at AED 195
- Available Online
9. Romesh Ranganathan Live Show
For fans of humour, UK’s stand-up comedian, Romesh Ranganathan is slated for a show at the Coca-Cola Arena, during the Diwali period. This show by this comedian is likely to go down well with celebrations during Diwali festivals due to his humor and unique style of telling stories.
- Date: October 25
- Location: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
- Tickets: Available online
Conclusion
If you are a fan of firework shows, festive markets, special Diwali sweet, or live performances, you definitely will not be bored during Diwali in Dubai. It is, therefore, a desire of everyone this year to take part in the celebrations and embrace the cultural aspect of Diwali in the city.
Happy Diwali!