Everything You Need To Know About The Diwali Lights Festival

And find out where to take part in the festival of lights in Dubai this year

Posted on

1 November 2018

| Last updated on 10 November 2020

A beautiful celebration filled with lights, colours and positive atmospheres

Taking place on Saturday, 14th November 2020, Indians around the world join in unison in celebration the “Festival of Light,” otherwise known as Diwali.

And since there is a huge Indian population in Dubai, the country is gearing towards Diwali celebrations on November 14 this year that will enchant the city.

What is Diwali?

India’s ‘Festival of Light’ is a celebration dedicated to people coming together to celebrate a good cause – the day is dedicated to celebrating the good conquering the evil.

For a duration that can last upto five days each year, Diwali is celebrated by turning on lots of lights around the household because the light (good) conquers the dark (evil).

Celebrating the light festival coincides with another Hindu celebration – the Hindu New Year – which makes the start of a successful business year.

Indians around the world engage in the light festival and sending prayers to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and Ganesh, the god of wisdom and luck.

All these wonderful celebrations are dedicated to celebrating the good and to keep the evil away every year.

How do Hindus celebrate Diwali?

The word Diwali, when translated, means rows of lighted lamps – and this is just what the festival is all about.

Diwali partakers light up several lamps around their households to fend off the evil spirits - therefore, it is very concentrated towards bright lights in all forms; from lamps to fireworks.

People celebrating Diwali also tend to decorate their homes with colourful lighting and candles called ‘diyas.’

And during the festival of lights, Hindus also tend to keep a window open to allow the goddess Lakshmi to find her way into their house or business and bring good luck.

They also give their house or business a thorough cleaning to ensure all the evil is taken out during Diwali.

Eating is an important part of the festival

Apart from celebrating light and good luck, having a feast is an important part of Diwali – however, every Indian family has their own traditions where they enjoy their favourite Diwali dishes.

And once that’s complete, Indian sweets are also popular during Diwali – family and friends can engage in the exchange of sweets and, at times, gifts with one another.

Where to celebrate Diwali in Dubai

Residents in Dubai are preparing to celebrate the Festival of Light over the upcoming week.

Diwali celebrators will be treated to lots of live entertainment, music, lights performances, and special bazaars dedicated to Diwali.

Special Diwali celebrations in Dubai

See where Diwali is being celebrated across the Emirate!

1. Global Village

Enjoy a colourful Diwali celebration at Global Village for 2020, where a host of Bollywood-themed shows are taking place. Everyone is invited to enjoy talented dance performances, cultural live shows, a surprise Bollywood Street Flashmob, brose and shop authentic Indian crafts, and indulge in a wide selection of India's finest culinary delights and the extensive dining options.

2. Festival of Lights at Al Seef
When: November 12th to 21st, 2020
Where: Al Seef, Dubai Creek

Al Seef is set to celebrate the annual Festival of Lights with a range of entertainment, shopping and dining, including a series of special Bollywood-themed live shows at their open-air stage. Don't miss out!

3. Dance of Lights
When: November 14 - 6.30pm onwards
Where: Dubai Festival City

Dubai Festival City is geared to wow the crowds for Diwali this year with a special themed number by the waters. The shopping mall's record-breaking IMAGINE show will feature a water, fire and laser show especially for the festival.

4. Fireworks and Dancing Fountain
When: November 13
Where: The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah

For those looking to watch Diwali firework displays in Dubai, The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah is hosting a grand fireworks display for everyone in the city on Friday, 13th November.

The world's largest dancing fountain, The Palm Fountain, will also put on a stunning water and lights performance for Diwali.

To secure the best viewing point, it's recommended to book and enjoy a lovely dinner at the nearby restaurants that offer prime waterfront views to marvel at the shows.