CELEBRATE DIWALI IN DUBAI WITH A VIBRANTLY COLOURFUL CALENDAR OF EVENTS THIS YEAR
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 11 October 2022: Diwali in Dubai is the perfect occasion for the city’s residents and visitors to take a short break, enjoy the festival of lights, spend memorable time with the family, eat delicious food, and explore the city’s stores for new clothes, gifts, gold and more. This year, the Diwali in Dubai calendar is packed with an array of fantastic offers, thrilling raffles, spectacular live entertainment, incredible fireworks and captivating events taking place throughout the Emirate from 14 until 28 October.
Organised and presented by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the colourful Diwali Calendar of Events was launched in collaboration with the Consulate General of India during a Festive Get Together for media yesterday at the Chokhi Dani Restaurant at Al Seef, Dubai Creek in the presence of Dr Aman Puri, Consul General of India to Dubai and Mohammed Feras, Director, Retail Registration, DFRE.
Dr. Aman Puri, Consul General of India to Dubai, comments:
“The Indian Consulate is pleased to join the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism in launching the Diwali 2022 calendar in Dubai. Today, Diwali, the festival of light, signifying the triumph of good over evil is celebrated around the world. Diwali in Dubai is a special celebration with the large Indian diaspora joining in revelry with their friends and families from several nationalities in Dubai. Over the years, Diwali in Dubai has gained wide popularity with tourists and residents enjoying the exciting line up of display of fireworks and shopping experiences”.
Mohammed Feras Arayqat, Director Retail Registration, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “Diwali in Dubai is an important celebration of our city’s diversity and our strong and historic links with India and its people that go back for generations. This year, Diwali festivities are taking place across the city with immersive events, spectacular fireworks and shows, and attractive shopping deals. This festival is about celebrating Diwali alongside our Indian residents and visitors, underscoring our status as a global city that is home to more than 200 nationalities, and strengthening Dubai’s position as a world-leading retail and entertainment destination where everyone can find unique experiences all year round.”
EVENTS AND ACTIVATIONS
Celebrate Diwali at Dubai Festival City Mall with great prizes, incredible offers and amazing entertainment. From 14 to 28 October, spend AED 300 and be in with a chance to become one of 10 lucky shoppers who will win a gold bar weighing 50 grams.
That’s not all, visitors can also enjoy the outdoor market, Vibes by the Bay, featuring an array of Instagrammable offerings including a variety of tantalising street food trucks, diverse new marketplaces and a must-see aquatic experience performed by the Fontana Circus. The first travelling water circus in the Middle East offers breathtaking artistic performances, special effects and much more.
Once shopping is out of the way, catch the record-breaking water and lights show IMAGINE that has been specially choreographed for this occasion. And don’t miss the fireworks spectacle. Both events take place on 23 October at Dubai Festival City Mall.Show starts at 8:30pm.
At City Centre Deira, Diwali festivities will be in full swing from 14 October, with dance and drum performances, a Bollywood Zumba workshop, an exciting rangoli digital competition, a henna artist, a rangoli artist as well as fabulous offers for shoppers and a photo opportunity. Customers spending AED 300 and above have a chance to win a gold coin worth more than AED 1,000 daily between 14 October and 30 October.
All SHARE members are invited to shop for AED 200 and more at City Centre Al Shindagha to enter a draw to win a Suzuki Baleno 2023 and 1 out of 4 furniture sets from Home Box until 28 October. The mall also offers traditional Bhangra dance performances to celebrate the festival between 14 and 28 October.
This Diwali, the Oasis Mall is hosting fun and festive events to entertain shoppers. Mall-goers can participate in the extra-special KBC Play & Win Contest happening at Oasis Mall in Dubai, by registering themselves through WhatsApp. Answer two KBC-style questions correctly to enter the draw. One lucky winner of the contest will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ set, all expenses paid. Shop for AED 200 in the mall and have a chance to win AED 20,000 worth of shopping vouchers. The central atrium will feature one of a kind Diwali market supporting home grown entrepreneurs selling Diwali essentials. Enjoy dance performances and Diwali themed workshops throughout the weekend.
Celebrate Diwali with BurJuman Mall all month long until 30 October. The mall has unmissable festive offers, fantastic decor, live entertainment, mini fashions shows, make-up master classes and delectable Diwali food. By spending over AED 250 at BurJuman Mall, shoppers have the chance to enter a digital raffle to win one year of rent-free living in a 1-bedroom apartment in Dubai Creek, sponsored by Al Ghurair Real Estate. Don’t miss the Diwali Bazaar running until 30 October every day from 12 pm to 10 pm on level three of the mall.
From 15 October to 24 October, the Waterfront Market at Deira Corniche has a beautiful Diwali celebration in store for visitors. Experience an authentic Festival of Lights experience with live Indian-inspired cooking stations and recipes shared by the Market’s executive resident chef Christos Lymperis. With vibrant bollywood themed performances, a giant Rangoli, and Diwali inspired workshops for kids, this is set to be an enriching Diwali celebration.
Make this Diwali one to remember at Festival Plaza Jebel Ali with Diwali in Dubai celebrations running daily until 28 October. Festivities include a Rangoli competition with cash prizes of up to AED 3000, cultural performances every weekend from 6 pm onwards, children’s art and craft workshops from 12PM to 7PM on 22 and 23 October, a Diwali Bazaar running from until 23 October from 12PM to 10PM, Thursday to Sunday, with an amazing range of in-store offers.
To celebrate Diwali, Riwaaz, a vibrant fashion and lifestyle exhibition is coming to DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai. From 11AM to 8PM on 15 October, the exhibition will offer ethnic Indian clothing, handicrafts, decor, and lifestyle products.
At Holiday Inn Bur Dubai, shop for exclusive ethnic wear, sarees, fashion apparel, jewellery, accessories, bags, and so much more, during the Diwali Fiesta exhibition on 16 October until from 10 AM to 9 PM. Shoppers can also try scrumptious Indian food at the exhibition, or even shop for handmade art and craft, as well as Diwali-special diyas and other traditional offerings.
The much awaited WoW Diwali Utsav is back this festive season in the Dhow Ballroom at the Grand Excelsior Hotel Bur Dubai on 15 October, from 11 am to 9 pm. With more than 50 exhibitors showcasing authentic ethnic wear as well as designer clothing and jewellery, home decor and art, this Diwali offers a well-deserved shopping break.
RETAIL PROMOTIONS
Make this Diwali a golden one with Damas and their dazzling offers on gold and diamond jewellery. Shoppers get a free 1 gram 22k gold coin on every diamond purchase of AED 2500, and on every diamond purchase of AED 10,000, shoppers get an additional bonus 1 gram 22k gold coin from 22k Damas stores. Get a free gift voucher of AED 100 on every spend of AED 10,000 on select gold jewellery. Plus, get the chance to win a diamond jewellery set with one coupon to enter the raffle on every purchase of AED 500.
Light this Diwali up with Bath and Body Works’ enchanting scented candles. The store’s three-wick Diwali scented candles made with essential oils are on offer until 27 October with a special promotional price of AED 65 to celebrate the festival of lights.
With Skywards Everyday, earn Emirates Skywards Miles while shopping for glittering gifts for loved ones. Shoppers can earn 1 mile for every AED 3 spent at participating jewellery partners including 1915 by Seddiqi & Sons, Roberto Coin, Fiori Jewellers, Kalyan Jewellers, and Farah Jewellery.
From 14 October to 28 October, Lulu Hypermarket has a host of activities and offers planned to celebrate the festival of lights. With an ethnic fashion show, Bollywood dance performances, and fabulous offers, Lulu has lots to offer this Diwali. Browse through an amazing curated selection of seasonal festive food, pooja material, home decor, gift items, accessories and even a festive clothing collection. Shoppers can replenish their festive wardrobes with Lulu’s Buy 2 Get 1 free offer on sarees and churidars.
SHOWS AND CONCERTS
Enjoy the music and magic of Coke Studio Live for its first ever live performance in Dubai at Coca-Cola Arena on 14 October at 9PM. The much-loved music platform has long promoted established and up-and-coming musical talents, celebrating the power of music in bringing people together. Ticket prices start at AED 179.
Join Anubhav Singh Bassi as he makes a tour stop on 15 October at 8PM, at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium in Indian High School, Dubai for his stand up comedy solo special ‘Well Done Officer’, by Colors Laughter Night. Tickets beginning at AED 125.
Don’t miss the performance by comedy talent Zakir Khan, now in the UAE for his Tathastu Tour, live at The Agenda at 8:30PM on 28 October. Ticket prices start at AED 95 onwards.
Visit the iconic Global Village from 25 October to celebrate Diwali from Sunday to Wednesday from 4 PM till 12AM, and Thursday to Saturday from 4PM till 1AM. Enjoy a variety of Bollywood shows on the main stage, shopping and cultural performances at the India Pavilion as well as delicious Indian dining options including authentic street food at the Chaat Bazaar. With musical fireworks on 28 October, it’s the perfect Diwali destination. Purchase entry tickets from just AED 18 when booking online on the Global Village website or application.
Join in on the festivities at THE BIG DIWALI MELA, a first of its kind Diwali Carnival experience with a free concert by playback singer, performer and actress Akasa Singh, widely known for her songs ‘Naagin’, ‘Kheech Meri Photo, ‘Thug Ranjha’ and many more. The event features rangoli making, henna tattoos, kids’ entertainment and a variety of food kiosks serving delicious
Indian and international cuisine. Stand a chance to win amazing prizes with the BIG FM 106.2 presenters at this exciting event brought to you by FUNASIA EVENTS. Experience THE BIG DIWALI MELA on the 22nd of October at The Square @ ISD, Dubai Sports City. Festivities begin at 4PM onwards. Check out more details on www.funasiaevents.com or www.big1062.com.
Until 31 October visit Hotel Indigo Downtown Dubai for an art exhibition by bold and authentic artist Keerthana S. Kumar featuring her collection of six bright portraits of women thriving and managing emotions, titled ‘Keeping It Real!’
GASTRONOMY
Celebrate the festival of lights with The Crossing Restaurant as they offer celebratory treats enjoyed across the many cultures of the Indian Subcontinent, meant to be enjoyed with loved ones from 12PM to 3PM and again from 6:30PM to 12:30AM, from 14 to 28 October. At AED 245 per person, guests can also enjoy an exclusive festival of light Deepavali Illumination Box with their dining experience.
To perfectly capture the spirit of Diwali in Dubai Amala Restaurant, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray will light up and serve guests delicious Indian fare. From 7PM to 10PM every night from 22 to 24 October, guests will be serenaded with live entertainment when dining from a set menu curated especially for Diwali at AED 230 per person. For reservations, guests can contact jzsrestaurants@jumeirah.com.
With a fantastic feast of Indian delicacies, Diwali Dinner at Mistral is sure to make the festival of lights this year a foodie’s delight with traditional Indian fare as well as plenty of desserts, guests can visit the buffet at Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai for AED 125 per person from 6:30PM to 10PM on 24 October.
Celebrate Diwali at Kaleidoscope Buffet Restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm. With activities like henna tattooing, an Indian cultural parade, and many more surprises, guests are bound to make special memories and bond with loved ones this Diwali daily from 6PM to 10PM from 22 to 24 October. Meals are available at AED 275 per adult, AED 137.50 per child, while toddlers aged 0-3 years dine for free.
Indulge in a grand celebration of the festival of lights at Varq at Taj Exotica and Spa, The Palm, Dubai. The restaurant offers authentic Indian delicacies and an atmosphere to match, with Diya arrangements, regional music, Rangolis, and more. Guests can enjoy a three-course set menu meal for AED 295. At Palm Kitchen Taj Exotica, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, guests can enjoy a dinner buffet at AED 175 per person, accompanied by beverages at AED 355 upwards per person. Taj also offers guests an opportunity to experience Diwali-themed Mumbai Afternoon Tea at Emperor Lounge with their own house blend of tea, at AED 225 for two guests.
Celebrate Diwali with Rajasthani flair at Chokhi Dhani Al Seef Dubai. The restaurant has mesmerizing Rajasthani traditional folk dance performances, puppet shows, and many more enchanting activities, along with the splendid vegetarian buffet spread from 4PM to 11PM from 14 to 28 October. The cost is AED 105 for adults, AED 52.50 for children between 5-10 years, while children younger than five dine for free.
HOTEL OFFERS
Book a staycation at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre for five nights until 31 October and get a 15 per cent reduction on the rate, with packages starting from AED 340 per night for a deluxe room with breakfast.
For a short getaway, take advantage of the deal at Leva Hotel Mazaya Centre and stay for two nights to get a free single day admission ticket to Laguna Waterpark or the Green Planet. Use the code LWTP022 for a free ticket to Laguna Waterpark or LVTGP022 for a free ticket to Green Planet when booking, available only for a limited time until 5 November.
Spend three nights and save up to 20 per cent on your booking at Courtyard by Marriott Dubai in Al Barsha or World Trade Center, with no prepayment necessary and free cancellation until 24 hours prior to arrival. For more information call 1-800-MARRIOTT and ask for the promotional code UK8.
For those looking for a Bollywood adventure this Diwali, book an overnight stay at Rove At The Park until 22 December, from AED 399, to receive free tickets to Bollywood Parks – the exciting theme park dedicated to Bollywood, and the only one of its kind in the world.
RAFFLES
Celebrate Diwali in the City of Gold with Dubai Jewellery Group with 50 per cent off on select diamond jewellery collections and up to 50 per cent off on making changes on select gold jewellery. Purchase gold, diamond, pearl or precious jewellery for AED 500 at the participating outlets to earn an entry into an exciting raffle to win shopping vouchers worth AED 5000 each. With a total of AED 150,000 in jewellery vouchers to be given away to 30 lucky winners, this Diwali is full of amazing prizes. To find out more on the deals and participating stores, visit www.dubaicityofgold.com.
From 14 to 28 October, 20 lucky winners will take home 24 carat gold coins valued up to AED 100,000 in total. Shop for AED 200 at Arabian Center, Al Ghurair Centre, Dubai Outlet Mall, Al Quoz Mall, Central Mall and Times Square Centre, Bay Avenue, Al Khail Gate, Al Bustan Centre to get a digital raffle ticket and win a gold coin worth AED 5000 for each winner. Presented by Dubai Shopping Malls Group, the raffle draw will take place on 29 October.
Purchase a Rosso Set for AED 20 online at www.idealz.com or on the app, and enter the Idealz Diwali raffle promotion to get the chance to be one of 100 winners. 99 winners will take home AED 1,000 in cash each, and one lucky Grand Prize winner will receive a cash prize of AED 100,000.
Stay on top of the festivities and celebrations this Diwali in Dubai – visit Visit Dubai and @CelebrateDubai and @StyledbyDubai on social media channels for more information.