In 1960, Dubai’s Indian community marked Diwali with simple gatherings and oil lamps at small melas — a heartfelt celebration that laid the foundation for today’s grand UAE festivities. Above, Indian expatriates at a Diwali Mela in 1960.
Diwali in UAE: How the festival of lights has evolved over the years
From gatherings to grand spectacles, Diwali in the UAE continues to unite and inspire joy
Last updated:
2 MIN READ
A beautiful then-and-now glimpse of Diwali in the UAE — from intimate gatherings and oil lamps of the past to today’s grand celebrations glowing across cities with lights, music, and togetherness.
Gulf News archives and Virendra Saklani
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In the 1970s and early 1980s, Diwali in the UAE was celebrated quietly, yet with heartfelt warmth. For the first wave of Indian expatriates, there were no massive light displays or cultural programmes — only a handful of lamps glowing outside homes.
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1987: Bur Dubai came alive with Diwali lights and street festivities, as the city’s Indian community gathered to celebrate the Festival of Lights with music, lamps, and shared joy.
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By the 1990s, as Indian communities grew, Diwali expanded beyond homes. Cultural associations began hosting dance shows, music nights, and community dinners, while markets in Karama and Bur Dubai overflowed with diyas and sweets.
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2001: Crowds gathered at Dubai’s Crowne Plaza Hotel for a lively Diwali concert by Indian pop singer Nitin Bali, featuring music, dance, and celebration.
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In 2005, shoppers thronged Meena Bazaar in Bur Dubai, selecting colourful, hand-painted diyas from Lal’s store as Diwali preparations filled the market with festive lights, fragrance, and excitement.
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In 2017, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi celebrated Diwali with a vibrant nine-day, circus-themed festival, blending Indian traditions with dazzling performances and family entertainment under its iconic red roof.
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In 2017, residents flocked to Bikanervala in Karama to buy traditional sweets ahead of Diwali, as the aroma of festive treats filled the air.
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Saasha Bhatkal and her sister Sarisha Bhatkal decorate lights at their Abu Dhabi home, adding warmth and sparkle to their Diwali celebrations.
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Shoppers thronged Joyalukkas store at Deira Gold Souq ahead of Diwali, selecting jewellery to mark the festive season with sparkle and prosperity.
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In 2018, children in Sharjah celebrated Diwali by lighting mild crackers at home, filling the night with sparkle, laughter, and the warm glow of the Festival of Lights.
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Buildings in Mankhool glowed with colourful decorative lights during Diwali, creating a festive atmosphere across the neighbourhood.
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In recent years, the celebration has transformed dramatically. Today, shopping malls, corporate offices, and schools across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah celebrate the “festival of lights” with decorative themes, cultural performances, and Diwali lunches.
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Crowds gathered at Dubai Festival City on November 4, 2021, to enjoy dazzling fireworks lighting up the sky in celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
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During Expo 2020 Dubai’s six-month run in 2021, Diwali celebrations brought vibrant performances, lights, and cultural showcases, uniting visitors from around the world in the spirit of the Festival of Lights.
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2024: Guests enjoy colourful cultural performances during the “Ghar Jaisi Diwali” celebrations at Zabeel Park, capturing the warmth and community spirit of the festival.
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