The festival of lights is returning to the UAE brighter than ever.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant and widely celebrated festival in India and by Indian communities worldwide. It is often referred to as the “Festival of Lights”. It is one of the most important festivals in Hinduism, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Diwali typically lasts five days and is observed with great enthusiasm and fervour. This year, the festival will fall on Friday, 1 November. During Diwali, people light oil lamps, candles, and decorative lights in and around their homes, which gives the festival its name. Diwali is a time for family gatherings, feasting, exchanging gifts, and sharing sweets and special dishes. Here’s how you can celebrate Diwali in Dubai.
Armani/Amal
As Diwali lights up Dubai, Armani/Amal inside the Burj Khalifa will serve a specially curated set menu. Tuck into Nadru Ki Chaat (crispy lotus root chips served with chutney and labneh), Sabudana Ki Tikki (sago pearl cakes stuffed with roasted peanuts and fig marmalade) and Zaitooni Macchi (succulent grilled black cod with preserved olives). Next, enjoy Tandoori Boti Kebab (lamb leg marinated in tandoori spices), Masala Chicken Puff (baked puff filled with chicken masala) and Dhaniya Mirch Ka Murgh (tender chicken in coriander, ginger, and green chilli sauce). Finish your meal with Mini Gulab Jamun served with saffron jelly, spice crumble, cinnamon Chantilly, and a selection of teas, coffees, and traditional Indian sweets. Available daily from 31 October to 1 November from 6:30pm to 11pm.AED 399 per person.
GO: Visit www.armanihotels.com for reservations and more information.
Bombay Brasserie
This Diwali, Bombay Brasserie at Taj Dubai has crafted a four-course Diwali menu that provides the perfect blend of innovation and tradition. Highlights include Peri Peri Tandoori Soya Chap (a vegetarian twist on classic Indian tandoori), Chowki Dahi aur Karai Subji, Mutton Ghjhia Ki Chaa and Kashmiri Murgh Kofta. No Diwali feast would be complete without a sweet finale, and Chef Pranav’s creations include Very Berry Ghewar or the indulgent Akhrot Chocolate Halwa. Available daily from 22 October to 4 November, from 6pm to midnight.
GO: Email fbreservations.dubai@tajhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Diwali with a memorable meal at Sahha. Experience an evening that captures the essence of the Festival of Lights, featuring an array of traditional dishes crafted to honour the joy and warmth of the occasion. Expect festive classics, including a rich selection of Indian delicacies, from savoury appetizers to delightful desserts, all paired with refreshing soft beverages. Available on Friday, 1 November from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. AED 240 per person.
GO: Visit www.hyattrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Jamavar Dubai
The Festival of Lights stands as India’s most important celebration, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and the promise of new beginnings. In honour of this joyous occasion, Jamavar Dubai will introduce a five-course Diwali tasting menu. Diners can expect Sabudana Truffle Khichdi, Konkan Soft Shell Crab, Murgh Tikka Kesari and Old Delhi Butter Chicken, complemented by traditional sides such as Dal Jamavar, Saag Aloo, Saffron Pulao Rice, Boondi Raita, and freshly baked bread. A sweet ending awaits with Gajrela, a luxurious take on a classic Indian dessert made with carrots, spices, and cream. Available daily from 23 October to 3 November.
GO: Visit https://jamavarrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Khyber
As Diwali approaches, Khyber at Dukes the Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, invites you to experience a culinary journey that celebrates the Festival of Lights. The four-course Diwali Set Menu, featuring a selection of North Indian delicacies, includes traditional favourites such as Pani Puri, Vada Pav, Awadhi Nihari, and Khyber’s signature Murgh Potli Kebab. Live entertainment and henna artistry will enhance the festive atmosphere on 1 November. Set menu available daily from 26 October to 1 November, from 5pm to 11pm, AED 175 (food only) or AED 225 (food and soft beverages).
GO: Visit https://offers.dukesthepalm.com for reservations and more information.
Kinara by Vikas Khanna
Experience an authentic Diwali celebration at Kinara by Vikas Khanna at JA The Resort. Indulge in a Diwali set menu and enjoy a host of festive surprises, including live entertainment, a henna artist, and a themed photo booth. The open show kitchen allows diners to watch as culinary magic unfolds, while the terrace, adorned with festive lights, provides a scenic outdoor dining option that beautifully complements the celebrations. Available daily from 30 October to 3 November, from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. AED 280 per person.
GO: Email restaurant.reservation@jaresorts.com or call 04 814 5604 for reservations and more information.
Palace Downtown
Celebrate Diwali at Ewaan inside Palace Downtown with a festive feast set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain. The bountiful buffet features sushi, salads, soups, and an Indian live cold chaat station. For the mains, indulge in Indian classics such as Aloo Tikki, Mutton Nihari, Paneer Butter Masala, and Dal Makhni. The buffet also features a carvery station with Cajun Roasted Chicken and Leg of Lamb and a grill station offering Calamari, Beef Kofta, and Marinated Lobster. Complete your meal with a tempting array of desserts, including a decadent chocolate fountain and traditional Malai Pot Kulfi. Available daily from 1 to 3 November, from 6pm to 10pm. AED 350 per person.
GO: Call 04 428 7961 for reservations and more information.
Palazzo Versace Dubai
Celebrate the festival of lights with a luxurious dining experience at Palazzo Versace Dubai. The Diwali dinner buffet captures the essence of the festival with an enticing selection of traditional Indian dishes alongside international favourites. Indulge in an array of signature offerings, including rich curries, aromatic biryanis, freshly made tandoori delights, and a variety of decadent sweets and desserts. The festive ambience will be enhanced with Diwali-themed décor and glowing lights. Available on 31 October and 1 November from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. AED 263 (food only).
GO: Visit palazzoversace.ae for reservations and more information.
Palm Kitchen
Celebrate Diwali amidst the serene ambience of Palm Kitchen at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, where a vibrant Diwali-themed buffet and breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf await. Enjoy a variety of festive specialities in this picturesque setting, making your celebration even more memorable. Available on 1 November from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. AED 250 per person (inclusive of a welcome drink).
GO: Email restaurants.exoticadubai@tajhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Rang Mahal
If you’re looking for a way to light up your Diwali celebrations, head to Rang Mahal at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. The decor is lit up perfectly for this festival of lights, promising a night of indulgent Indian fine dining. Rang Mahal is serving up a six-course set menu this Diwali featuring regional Indian delights popular on the occasion. Expect traditional dishes along with a wide selection of sweets to add a kick to your celebrations. Available on 31 October, from 6pm to 11pm. AED 199 per person.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
The Cinnamon Club
As the festival of lights illuminates the city, The Cinnamon Club at Park Hyatt Dubai will honour the festive occasion with two set menus. Drawing inspiration from old-world Indian bazaars, the restaurant will undergo a Diwali makeover adorned with vibrant decorations, flowers, and soft glowing ceremonial diyas that bring the space to life. Highlight dishes include Jodpuri Kachori Chaat, Tandoori Prawn, Fiery Rajasthani Lamb Curry, Chicken Biryani, and Malabar Boatman’s Fish Curry. Available from 31 October to 1 November. AED 175 (non-vegetarian set menu) and AED 150 (vegetarian set menu).
GO: Visit https://cinnamonclub.com for reservations and more information.
Varq
Indulge in a specially curated three-course Diwali dinner at Varq, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai’s acclaimed fine-dining Indian restaurant. This culinary experience celebrates the richness of Indian cuisine, thoughtfully crafted for the festive occasion with a three-course menu. Available daily from 31 October to 3 November from 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm. AED 295 per person.
GO: Email varq.exoticadubai@tajhotels.com for reservations and more information.
