Diwali Celebrations in Dubai: Your Ultimate Guide

Have you finalized your plans for Diwali in Dubai? This year, the festival of lights will be celebrated worldwide from Tuesday, October 29, for five vibrant days. Dubai will be buzzing with exciting dining deals and shopping experiences that you won’t want to miss. The rich Indian traditions will illuminate homes and balconies with lights, and a variety of special menus, experiences, and gift options will make this Diwali unforgettable. If you’re in the midst of planning, here’s a guide to the best places to celebrate Diwali in Dubai.

When is Diwali in Dubai?

(Credit: Adobe) The Diwali celebrations span five days, starting on Wednesday, October 29, and concluding on Sunday, November 3. Each day holds special significance:

• Day One: Dhanteras – A day when purchasing gold, silver, or kitchen utensils is considered auspicious.
• Day Two: Chhoti Diwali – Families usually wake early and bathe with oils to rejuvenate the body.
• Day Three: Diwali – The main day of the festival, dedicated to family blessings and celebrations.
• Day Four: Govardhan Puja – A day for exchanging gifts and sweets among family and friends, accompanied by a feast.
• Day Five: Bhai Dooj – This day celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters.

Where to Celebrate Diwali in Dubai

Bombay Brasserie

(Credit: Taj Dubai) Enjoy a special four-course menu at Bombay Brasserie, featuring an array of delectable Indian dishes. Start with a peri peri tandoori soya chap, followed by a rich mutton ghjhia ki chaat, capturing traditional flavors. No Diwali feast is complete without dessert, so indulge in either a very berry ghewar or a decadent akhrot chocolate halwa.

Dhs295 (four courses). Available from Tuesday, October 22 to Monday, November 4, from 6 PM to midnight. Bombay Brasserie, Taj Dubai. Visit: tajhotels.com or call (050 189 6089).

Dhaba Lane

(Credit: Dhaba Lane) Get in the festive mood early with Punjabi restaurant Dhaba Lane, offering a Navratri Thali menu from Thursday, October 3 to Saturday, October 12. Priced at just Dhs45 for four courses, enjoy dishes such as paneer matar makhana curry, fruit chaat, and sabudana kheer for dessert.

Dhs69 (five courses). Available from Wednesday, November 8 to Saturday, November 18, from noon to 4 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM. Locations: Karama, Garhoud, JLT, Al Nahda. Visit: dhaba-lane.com.

Mahi Cafe

(Credit: Supplied) Join in the festivities at Mahi Cafe, which will host bingo nights every Thursday until Wednesday, October 30. For Dhs45, enjoy a tapas dish along with a drink and a bingo card, giving you the chance to win exciting prizes.

Dhs45 per person. Every Thursday, 7 PM to 10 PM until Wednesday, October 30. Location: 4 7A St, Al Nadha 2. Follow on Instagram: @mahicafedxb or call (056 931 1300).

Paprika

(Credit: Supplied) For a unique way to celebrate Diwali at home, check out Paprika’s festive hampers, which include date and almond cookies, berry cheesecake jars, zaatar baguettes, and charcoal and parmesan crackers. These delightful treats make perfect gifts or festive snacks.

Starting from Dhs40. Follow on Instagram: @paprika.dubai or call (050 147 7462).

Reetii Diwali Exhibit

(Credit: Supplied) Don’t miss the one-day shopping extravaganza at the Shangri-La Hotel. From noon onwards, explore a variety of homegrown brands offering clothes, trinkets, and sweets—an ideal venue for picking up last-minute Diwali gifts.

Saturday, October 12, from noon to 9 PM. Location: Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road. Visit: shangri-la.com or call (04 343 8888).

Yoko Sizzlers

(Credit: Yoko Sizzlers) For families looking for something a bit different this Diwali, head to Yoko Sizzlers for a grand feast. Their stunning three-feet-long platters are designed to serve around 20 people, featuring a medley of freshly seasoned meats, vegetables, and chips for a memorable dining experience.

Dhs799 (vegetarian), Dhs899 (non-vegetarian). Available Sunday to Thursday from noon to midnight; Friday and Saturday from noon to 2 AM. Location: Al Zarooni Building, Al Barsha. Visit: yokosizzlers.com or call (04 272 0205).

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