Dubai, UAE – The UAE is getting ready for Diwali 2026, with festivities starting on Dhanteras, 6 November, and the main day of the Festival of Lights falling on Sunday, 8 November. Here are the key places to celebrate.
Dubai
- Global Village (6–10 November): a baithak on 6 November, games on 7 November and a 600-drone show on 8 November at 8pm; entry from AED 25
- Noor: Festival of Lights, Al Seef (7–8 November): 6pm to 11pm, free entry
- BurJuman Mall: Diwali workshops and baithaks until 12 November
- Dubai Parks and Resorts (6–8 November): “Diwali Dhamaka” at Riverland; one park from AED 99 or two parks for AED 149
- City Centre Deira: appearance by actress Tamannaah on 6 November at 7:30pm
Abu Dhabi
- BAPS Hindu Mandir (6–10 November): pujas and Maha Annakut Darshan. Entry is free but requires advance registration online or via the app; there are no walk-ins, and visitors must bring an Emirates ID or passport
Dining and staycations
Restaurants across the country are running festive menus, including Gymkhana in DIFC, Avatara, Rohini at Movenpick JLT, Purani Dilli and Ziya at Anantara Downtown. Several hotels in Deira and the Gold District are offering festive buffets from AED 75 and staycation deals during the first half of November.
Source: The National
