This Diwali, the UAE is pulling out all the stops to celebrate in grand style. Expect fireworks, mouth-watering food, games, and much more to keep the entire family entertained. This year, the Indian Festival of Lights falls on October 31 and November 1, and as per UAE tradition, the festivities will kick off early. As you adorn your balcony and home with lights, finalize your gift list, and plan your outfits, here are some exciting events happening in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to make your Diwali truly memorable.

Where to Eat:

Graphos Social Kitchen, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Combine food and family at the Diwali Spice Market at Graphos Social Kitchen. Enjoy seasonal decor, cultural entertainment, and authentic dishes like tandoori and tikka meats, paneer, and freshly baked naan. For street food lovers, customize your chaat and pair it with traditional masala chai. Kids are welcome with special activities at the Kids' Corner. The evening culminates with fireworks lighting up Yas Bay.

Dh150 (soft beverages); Dh215 (house beverages). Oct 31-Nov 1, 7pm-10pm. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Diwali in JLT

Dress in traditional attire and head to Jumeirah Lake Towers Park for a night of dancing. Enjoy DJ beats, music, and dance performances. Kids can participate in craft stations with a chance to win prizes. Savor tangy pani-puri and soak in the festive vibe.

Free (registration required). Nov 1, 5pm-8pm. JLT Park.

Creek Kitchen at Marriott Marquis Dubai

This buffet offers an Indian journey with kebabs, street food, and main courses like biryani, followed by international dishes. End with sweet treats like badami kheer, gulab jamun, and more. Post-meal, grab a Diwali hamper from The Great Room.

Dh185 per adult. Oct 29-30. Jewel of the Creek.

Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai

Enter a lobby adorned with sweets and rangoli art. Enjoy traditional and contemporary Indian dishes surrounded by festive lights and decor.

Dh111 (per person); Dh265 (for three people). Oct 31, 7pm-11pm. Bur Dubai.

Dhaba Lane

Enjoy a five-course Diwali special menu with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including Sindhi tikki, khatti dal, and butter naan.

Dh69 (per person). Oct 31- Nov 10, all day. Karama, Garhoud, JLT, and Al Nahda.

Kinara by Vikas Khanna, JA The Resort, JA Lake View

Perfect for families, enjoy henna art, photo booths, and Diwali treats. Watch chefs in action or relax on the terrace.

Dh280 (per person for a three-course set menu). Oct 30-Nov 1, 6.30pm-10.30pm. JA The Resort.

The Restaurant, Address Dubai Mall

Experience a Diwali-themed brunch with dishes from across India, live seafood, sushi, and BBQ stations.

Dh285 (soft beverages); Dh385 (bubbly and house beverages). Nov 2, 7pm-11.30pm. Downtown Dubai.

Special Festivals and Shows:

Noor: The Festival of Lights

Dubai's Noor festival at Al Seef offers performances and workshops on Indian traditions. Enjoy a parade, drum performance, plays, and folk music.

Free. Oct 25-27. Al Seef.

Deepavali Utsav 2024

Head to Etisalat Academy for a funfair with games, rides, performances, and activities. Highlights include a rangoli competition and performances by Indian Idol stars.

Tickets start at Dh50. Oct 26, 4pm onwards. Etisalat Academy, Dubai.

Global Village

Enjoy Rangoli art, performances, and fireworks at Global Village. Experience rides and pavilions from over 80 countries.

Dh30. Oct 28-Nov 3, 4pm-midnight.

See Fireworks

Catch the fireworks at Al Seef or Global Village over the Diwali weekend.

Free (Al Seef); Dh30 entry for Global Village. Nov 1-2, 9pm in both locations.

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