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
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.
What can we do apart from eating out on Diwali?
The Diwali weekend might be from 11-12 November, but the festivities are sure to start early and continue long after. With plenty of outdoor attractions reopening both in the UAE capital and in Dubai, from Global Village to Miracle Garden or Ripe Market, there’s no dearth of things to do. Concerts by major artists like Ali Sethi and Arijit Singh are also definitely to be added to your list!
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