From brunches to tasting menus, we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate a foodie Diwali in Dubai 2024
With Diwali just around the corner, we couldn’t resist rounding up the perfect spots to celebrate in Dubai this 2024.
Commonly known as the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali in Dubai is celebrated by the Indian expat community over a period of three days. Like all celebrations, the festival is marked by good food, new clothes, gifts and getting together to spend quality time with your loved ones.
From brunches to tasting menus and more, Team Yalla’s rounded up the best spots to celebrate Diwali in Dubai 2024.
CHECK OUT THE BEST SPOTS TO CELEBRATE DIWALI IN DUBAI 2024
Anantara Downtown Dubai – Punjab Grill
Get ready to indulge your senses this Diwali at Punjab Grill, located in the luxurious Anantara Downtown Dubai. Gather your loved ones and treat yourself to a specially curated menu starting from just AED 45. This limited-time festive menu curated by award-winning Executive Chef, Sandeep Ail blends traditional Indian flavours with modern culinary flair, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. You don’t want to miss out!
Available 25 October to 7 November. Starting at AED 45. For bookings, call 050 194 1107
Shangri-La Hotel – Reetii Diwali Edit
Get ready to kick off this Diwali season in style at the Reetii Diwali Edit! Head over to Shangri-La Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road for a shopping extravaganza like no other. This fashion and lifestyle exhibition has been a festive favourite since 2017, showcasing the best in homegrown and home-run brands. It’s the perfect spot to discover unique finds and support local entrepreneurs—don’t miss out on all the fun!
12 October, midday to 9 pm. Free entry with valet service. For more information, call 04 343 8888
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Diwali with Dhaba Lane
This Diwali, immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Punjab with Dhaba Lane’s exclusive five-course set menu. Indulge in a variety of delicious dishes including a flavourful soup, chaat, an array of starters, main courses, and a sweet ending with dessert. Both menus are complemented with signature Dhaba specials like Sindhi Tikki, Khatti Dal, Butter Naan, and the indulgent Daulat Ki Chaat dessert. Whether you’re looking for a hearty celebration with family or a festive outing with friends, this menu will make your Diwali truly special.
Available all day 31 October to 10 November. AED 69 per person. For bookings, call 04 3583554
Mahi Cafe- Diwali Bingo Night
Get ready to light up your Diwali at Mahi Cafe! Join the festive vibes with Diwali Bingo Nights every Thursday, leading up to the big celebration on 30 October. Gather the squad for a night of fun, laughter, tasty bites, and awesome prizes—all in the heart of Al Nahda’s favourite tapas & shisha lounge. The package includes a starter, a beverage, and a Bingo card, and of course, a fabulous night without burning a hole in your wallet.
Every Thursday, 7 pm to 10 pm. AED 45. For bookings, call 056 931 1300
Sizzle at YOKO Sizzlers
Step away from the traditional Indian meal and indulge in the world’s largest sizzler for Diwal! Known for their sizzling flavors, YOKO Sizzlers has a one-of-a-kind culinary experience with their three-foot sizzler, a monstrous creation designed to serve 20-25 people: perfect for your big Diwali party. This impressive dish caters to everyone—whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover. Paired with delicious sauces, this plate will take your taste buds on a flavourful journey.
All-Day. AED 799 for veg, AED 899 for non-veg. For more information, follow @yokodubai
JA The Resort’s Kinara by Vikas Khanna
Celebrate with a special family-style Diwali set menu and an array of additional surprises including live entertainment, a henna artist, and a themed photo booth, ensuring a memorable experience that radiates warmth, joy, and unforgettable moments. Complete with colourful rangoli art and the golden glow of diyas, each element of this event has been curated to evoke the nostalgia and joyous energy of Diwali.
30 October to 3 November, 6.30pm to 10.30pm. AED 280 per person. For bookings, call 04 814 5604
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek
Make your Diwali celebrations sparkle with 50 per cent off the a la carte and regular menus across five of Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek’s dynamic dining destinations. Indulge in a seafood feast at the iconic Fish Market, savour the authentic flavours of Middle Eastern cuisine at Aseelah, explore delectable Asian offerings at Sumibiya, Yum, or China Club. There’s something for everyone to enjoy the Festival of Lights!
1-3 November. 50 per cent off on a la carte and regular menus. For bookings, call 04 205 7033
Giardino, Palazzo Versace Dubai
Known for its vibrant interiors and iconic jungle-themed décor, Giardino is set to dazzle guests with a festive spread, creating the perfect atmosphere for families and friends to come together in celebration. The specially curated Diwali dinner buffet is designed to capture the essence of the festival with an array of traditional Indian dishes alongside international favourites. Elevated with Diwali-themed décor and festive lighting, it’s the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration.
31 October and 1 November, 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Starting from AED 263 per person for food. For bookings, call 04 556 8888
Four Points by Sheraton
Purani Dilli invites guests to experience Utsav-e-Diwali, a one-of-a-kind culinary celebration that promises to take diners on an authentic journey through the flavours of Old Delhi. This Diwali, the restaurant will offer more than just a meal, presenting a lavish buffet and live cooking stations for an immersive dining experience. From street food favourites to timeless festive dishes, there’s a lot to savour here!
Available 1-3 November at Purani Dilli Sheikh Zayed Road, 7pm to 11.30pm. AED 129 per person. For bookings, call 056 4142213
Available 1-3 November at Purani Dilli Bur Dubai, 7pm to 11.30pm. AED 109 per person. For bookings, call 056 4142213
JW Marriott Marina
Experience the spirit of Diwali at JW Marriott Marina’s cosy Marigold Afternoon Tea, where every bite radiates the warmth and joy of the Festival of Lights! Sit down with loved ones and savour delightful treats such as the Tandoori Chicken Sandwich, Paneer Bhurji Pao, and Vegetable Samosa. Sweeten your celebration with desserts like Gulab Jamun Cheesecake, Saffron Burfi, and the signature Marigold Cupcake. If you’re looking to make it an extra special occasion, enjoy two flutes of bubbly alongside your tea.
29 October to 2 November. AED 190 for afternoon tea for two persons, AED 290, for afternoon tea for two persons with two flutes of bubbly. For bookings, call 04 436 7777
Marriott Marquis Dubai
Located at Jewel of the Creek, join in the joyous celebrations of Diwali with an exquisite buffet. Experience a culinary journey that blends traditional Indian flavours with international favourites, perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the festival of lights. In addition to the buffet, Creek Kitchen will offer special Diwali hampers available for purchase at The Great Room.
29-30 October. AED 185 per adult for the Diwali buffet, starting AED 290 for Diwali hampers. For bookings, call 04 5990310
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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