Fairs, food, gifts and fun await all those celebrating Diwali in Abu Dhabi
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a much-anticipated festival for Indians across the world.
Given the UAE’s large Hindu expat community, celebrations here are done in a major way, featuring everything from brunches to melas (fairs), and of course, some delectable Indian mithai (sweets).
Naturally, Team Yalla’s rounded up the best places to celebrate Diwali in Abu Dhabi!
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
31 October, 7pm to 11pm
Celebrate Diwali at The Terrace on the Corniche, where the warm glow of diyas create a magical atmosphere. Guests celebrating the vibrant occasion will enjoy a special menu crafted by renowned chefs featuring globally sourced ingredients, with a variety of appetisers, vegetarian options, and exquisite cuts of meat infused with exotic spices. Savour slow-cooked curries that offer a symphony of rich textures and bold flavours, complemented by a selection of delightful appetisers and desserts.
AED 225 per person, 20 per cent discount with Marriott Bonvoy. For bookings, call 02 694 4553
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
1 November, 6.30pm to 10.30pm
There’s no better way to ring in the festival of lights than with the Diwali buffet at Sahha! Indulge in a culinary journey that captures the essence of this joyous festival as Sahha serves up a traditional spread in celebration of the festival of lights. Gather your loved ones and tuck in.
AED 240 per person, including soft beverages. For bookings, call 02 510 1234
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Yas Bay Waterfront
1 November 2024, Session 1: 6.30pm-7.30pm, Session 2: 8.30pm-9.30pm
The festival will come alive with the glow of the Candlelight Concert at Yas Bay Waterfront this Diwali. The free concert will feature two performances at 6.30pm and 8.30pm, offering an enchanting evening of classical music and dance inspired by Bollywood and Indian cinema. Attendees will be treated to captivating Sarangi performances by Nabeel Khan’s Bollywood Ensemble and show-stopping dance routines from celebrity choreographer Sarah Pinto. Don’t miss out!
Register now for free at feverup.com/m/256606
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL ABU DHABI AT AL MARYAH ISLAND
Diwali set menu at Eclipse
27 October to 3 November, 6pm to 11.30pm
Relish Eclipse’s take on a traditional Indian feast with a special menu in celebration of Diwali. Available from 27th October to 3rd November, diners can start the evening with a fusion of Indian and Asian flavours with stand-out starters including indulgent Cheesy Aloo Bonda’s and perfectly crispy Chicken Tikka Spring Rolls before tucking into the main event with mouthwatering dishes like rich and creamy Paalak Paneer and succulent Chicken Biryani, a flavourful classic.
AED 320 per set for the Diwali three-course menu. For bookings, call 02 333 2333
Diwali afternoon tea
27 October to 3 November, 3pm to 7pm
Al Meylas features a decadent selection of sweet and savoury Indian-inspired treats. Tea connoisseurs can indulge in delights like savoury Pani Puri Shots and golden Punjabi Samosas, followed by classic tea sandwiches such as the Bombay Pav Sandwich and rich Chicken Tikka Sliders. Finish with irresistible sweets, including delicate Gujiya dumplings, silky Kaju Barfi fudge and so much more for a Diwali experience that’s equal parts indulgent and memorable.
AED 230 per person for a Diwali afternoon tea inclusive of sweet and savoury treats with tea. For bookings, call 02 333 2333
FAQs
What is Diwali?
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a festival celebrated by the Hindu community in India. Typically occurring between the months of October and November, the festival is associated with the return of Lord Ram, a Hindu deity, as well as Goddess Lakshmi, who symbolises prosperity.
How do you celebrate Diwali?
Diwali is commonly celebrated through bursting fireworks, exchanging gifts (ranging from nuts to gold), spending quality time with your loved ones, card games and so much more. Hindus also clean their homes thoroughly in anticipation of the festival.
Is it an official holiday in the UAE?
While Hindus are a large part of the expat community in the UAE, Diwali is not an official holiday with the exception of some Indian schools. However, that rarely deters the crowd from celebrating with pomp.
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