Daijiworld Media Network - UAE

UAE, Oct 15: As Diwali 2025 approaches, Indian curriculum schools across the UAE have declared a four-day holiday from Friday, October 17, to Monday, October 20, giving families an ideal opportunity to celebrate the Festival of Lights together. Schools, including Our Own Indian School, Dubai, have shared official circulars wishing their communities a Happy Diwali and announcing that classes will resume from Tuesday, October 21.

The break is seen as a chance for cultural engagement and family bonding, with schools actively involving students in vibrant dance performances, skits, traditional songs, rangoli and diya decoration workshops, and storytelling sessions that highlight the festival’s significance and promote inclusivity.

Across the UAE, Diwali celebrations are in full swing. In Abu Dhabi, the BAPS Hindu Mandir hosts prayers and cultural programs for over a week leading up to October 20, while in Dubai, Al Seef and Global Village light up with fireworks, cultural performances, markets, and music shows. The fireworks in Dubai begin on October 17 at 9:00 PM at Al Seef, followed by displays at Global Village on October 18, 19, 24, and 25. Al Seef will also host the Noor Festival of Lights from October 17 to 19, featuring music, dance, workshops, and cultural showcases.

Shopping malls and Indian restaurants are offering festive promotions and special menus, while family-friendly shows such as Disney on Ice and exhibitions at Abu Dhabi’s Louvre add to the seasonal excitement.

This year, Diwali festivities in the UAE are spread across five days:

• October 18 – Dhanteras: Auspicious day for buying gold, gadgets, or homes and preparing homes for the festival.
• October 19 – Chhoti Diwali: Preparations for sweets, gifts, and pre-festival celebrations.
• October 20 – Diwali (Main Day): Lighting diyas, wearing new clothes, offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, and commemorating Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.
• October 21 – Govardhan Puja: Linked to the harvest season in parts of India.
• October 22 – Bhai Dooj: Celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters through rituals and gifts.

With schools granting well-deserved breaks and the cities buzzing with festive energy, the UAE is all set to celebrate Diwali 2025 in grand style, creating lasting memories for families and communities alike.