Diwali in Dubai 2025: Ultimate Guide to Fireworks, Festivals, Food & Shopping

1. Introduction

When the night sky over Dubai bursts into colors, you know it’s time for Diwali — the Festival of Lights. In 2025, Dubai is set to dazzle once again with spectacular fireworks, vibrant festivals, soulful music concerts, buzzing shopping festivals, and joyful family functions across the city.

Diwali in Dubai 2025 will fall on Monday, October 20, marking the peak of celebrations in places like Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Dubai Festival City Mall, and The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah — all known for their breathtaking firework shows and light displays. From traditional pujas to street-style feasts and Bollywood dance nights, every corner of Dubai comes alive in a symphony of light, culture, and community.

Whether you’re planning to witness the grand fireworks, explore family-friendly Diwali events, indulge in festive shopping deals, or groove at live music festivals, this ultimate guide has you covered.

Ahead, you’ll find everything about event schedules, fireworks timings, food & shopping carnivals, and essential travel tips to make your Diwali 2025 in Dubai a truly unforgettable experience. 

(Source: Visit Dubai – Diwali Celebrations)

2. When is Diwali in Dubai 2025? Key Dates & Timings

Diwali in Dubai 2025 will be celebrated with full grandeur from October 18 to October 24, 2025, marking a week of joy, tradition, and togetherness. Commonly known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil — a timeless celebration of hope and renewal that beautifully blends with Dubai’s multicultural spirit.

Here’s a quick look at the main Diwali 2025 dates and timings (as per Online Dubai Visa):

During these Diwali timings, Dubai’s iconic landmarks — from Burj Khalifa to Dubai Creek Harbour — illuminate with diyas, LED displays, and fireworks, turning the city into a glowing tapestry of joy.

Why Dubai’s Diwali is Unique

• Cross-cultural celebration: Mixes Indian tradition with Emirati hospitality, uniting people from all backgrounds under the glow of diyas and lanterns.

• Large-scale public events: Global Village and Al Seef headline with fireworks, music, dances, festive shopping, and food stalls, turning major landmarks into fairytale backdrops.

• World-class experiences: From Burj Khalifa’s LED spectacle and Dubai Mall’s Diwali sales to gourmet feasts at luxury restaurants and exclusive raffles, every visitor enjoys best-in-class festive fun.

For official updates and event timings, check the Dubai Calendar or the latest Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) Diwali press release. 

3. Fireworks & Light Shows — Lighting Up Dubai’s Skyline for Diwali 2025

When it comes to Diwali in Dubai 2025, few sights can rival the city’s glittering skyline set ablaze by fireworks and light shows. From Al Seef’s Noor: Festival of Lights to the grand finales at Global Village, Dubai transforms into a living canvas of color, sound, and joy.

This year, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has extended the celebrations across multiple venues, ensuring every resident and visitor gets a front-row seat to the Festival of Lights. As reported by The Times of India, here’s the tentative fireworks and light show schedule:

Major Fireworks Hotspots:

• Al Seef Creekfront: Known for the Noor: Festival of Lights, featuring live art projections and illuminated dhow boats.

• Global Village: The heart of festive fireworks with cultural performances and international street food.

• Dubai Festival City Mall: Famous for its synchronized IMAGINE laser and light show during Diwali week.
  

You can explore the latest Diwali fireworks locations and timings on the Platinum List Guide Diwali Guide page. 

4. Cultural Extravaganzas, Diwali Mela & Citywide Festivals

Dubai’s festive spirit shines brightest during Diwali in Dubai 2025, when the city transforms into a grand stage for cultural festivals, music events, and family functions that celebrate India’s rich traditions with a cosmopolitan twist.

From Global Village to Al Seef and Dubai Parks™ and Resorts, the city’s major destinations are rolling out dazzling Diwali events that blend art, food, music, and light into unforgettable experiences.

Key Cultural Festivals & Events

• Diwali Mela at Global Village (Oct 17–20, 2025)
  A colorful bazaar featuring hundreds of stalls, rangoli art zones, live cultural performances, and immersive family activities. Visitors can enjoy Bollywood dance shows, Indian street food, and handcrafted decor — a perfect mix of nostalgia and entertainment.
  (Source: Khaleej Times)
  

• Noor: Festival of Lights at Al Seef (Oct 17–19, 2025)
  Curated by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this luminous celebration showcases light art installations, floating lanterns, and processions symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
  (Reference: Next Holidays – Everything You Need to Know About Diwali 2025)
  

• Diwali at Dubai Parks™ & Resorts (Nov 9–10, 2025)
  Bollywood Parks™ Dubai presents; Big Zee Diwali Festival of Lights - two days of power packed excitement, rides and attractions, dance performances, food, fun, magic and amazing live concerts -Bollywood Style.

Shankar Ehsaan Loy Concert -9th November - 8:15 PM - 09:35 PM ( Park opens at 1:00 PM)
Neeraj Shridhar Concert - 10th November - 7:00 PM - 08:20 PM ( Park opens at 1:00 PM)     
(Source: Platinumlist)

• Citywide Diwali Calendar by DFRE / DET
  The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) arm of DET is curating a citywide entertainment and events calendar, ensuring every district lights up with music, dance, and fireworks throughout Diwali week.

Looking for stays near the main Diwali events? Discover the Top 25 Hotels in Dubai (2025) — from family-friendly resorts to luxury downtown escapes.

5. Spotlight: Noor – Festival of Lights at Al Seef

Noor: Festival of Lights, held from October 17 to 19, 2025, at Al Seef by Dubai Creek, stands out as one of the most immersive and culturally rich Diwali events in Dubai. This free-to-enter festival turns the historic waterfront into a vibrant celebration of Indian heritage, welcoming families and visitors to partake in the joyous spirit of Diwali in a truly unique setting.

What to Expect at Noor Festival Dubai

• Grand Parades & Performances: Witness colourful community parades, classical Indian music concerts, soulful poetry readings, and folk dance performances showcasing India’s rich traditions.

• Interactive Workshops & Experiences: Engage in drumming sessions, learn Rangoli art, paint Diyas (earthen lamps), and take part in storytelling sessions designed to immerse all ages in the festival’s culture.

• Authentic Food Stalls: Enjoy a variety of must-try Indian delicacies, reflecting the diverse culinary heritage of India, perfect for family-friendly dining experiences with festive vibes.

What Makes Noor Festival Unique?

• Focus on Indian Heritage: The festival is dedicated to celebrating Indian traditions while inviting everyone to experience the warmth and unity of Diwali. It’s a beautiful blend of cultural pride and community inclusiveness.

• Free Entry for All: Noor is accessible to families and individuals without any entrance fee, encouraging widespread participation across Dubai’s multicultural population.

• Iconic Photospots: Capture your memories with stunning backdrops such as Diyas floating on water in Dubai Creek and vibrant moments from colourful parades, making it a photographer’s delight.

Noor: Festival of Lights is more than just an event—it’s a tapestry of light, art, music, and communal joy that leaves visitors with lasting impressions. For the full cultural lineup and more details, check out the Gulf News Diwali Overview.

This festival perfectly captures the essence of Diwali in Dubai, where tradition shines bright and every moment is an invitation to celebrate as one.

 6. Diwali at Global Village: Concerts, Cuisine & Carnival Vibes

When it comes to Diwali festivals in Dubai, few places capture the essence of India quite like Global Village. From the rhythm of Diwali concerts to the aroma of sizzling Indian street food, this cultural hotspot transforms into a carnival of colors, lights, and laughter every October.

Global Village Diwali 2025 Schedule

The grand celebration runs from October 17–25, 2025, featuring four nights of breathtaking fireworks, vibrant music, and themed Diwali décor across the entire park.

(Source: The Times of India)

Must-Visit Attractions at Global Village Diwali 2025

7. Music, Concerts & Celebrity Shows: Diwali’s Star-Studded Lineup

Diwali concerts in Dubai 2025 are set to dazzle audiences with a star-studded lineup spanning renowned artists across genres and celebrated venues. The city’s cultural events highlight the diversity of Indian music and entertainment, from South Indian chart-toppers to vibrant Bollywood nights—ensuring every festivalgoer finds a show to remember.

Key Concerts & Celebrity Shows

• Ilaiyaraja at Dubai Opera

  • Date: October 18

  • Known as a legendary music composer, Ilaiyaraja will perform his chart-topping South Indian hits live at the iconic Dubai Opera, bringing classical and contemporary melodies to the Festival of Lights stage.

• Andrea Jeremiah at Etisalat Academy

  • Date: October 18

  • Andrea Jeremiah, a celebrated singer and actress, will headline a soulful concert called The Jeremiah Project, featuring her mesmerizing voice and eclectic musical styles.

• Stand-up Comedy at Coca Cola Arena

  • Dates: October 24-25

  • Comedy legend Russell Peters is set to perform live at the Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, on 25th October 2025! Get ready for a laughter-packed night as he brings his iconic humor to the city. The show celebrates Diwali in Dubai with endless jokes, fun, and festive vibes! 

Concert Calendar for Quick Reference

8. Family-Friendly Diwali Activities: Workshops, Malls, and Markets

Dubai offers a rich variety of Diwali family activities in 2025, blending fun workshops, festive shopping, and cultural markets perfect for visitors with kids and families. Whether it’s hands-on crafts, traditional henna, or immersive storytelling, there’s something to spark joy for all ages across the city’s premier venues.

Kid-Friendly Celebrations

• BurJuman Mall Family Nights (October 1-22):
  Every Friday, enjoy family game nights featuring Antakshari (a musical quiz game), henna art, rangoli painting, and Diya decorating workshops. Kids can also try lantern making and sweet making in festive, supervised environments. On Saturdays, the Baithak mini-concerts deliver Bollywood-inspired musical evenings for the whole family.
  (Source: Burjuman)

• Festival Plaza Workshops (October 24-25):
  Festival Plaza hosts interactive workshops including textile block printing, Diya painting, and cooking sessions for Diwali sweets. These hands-on activities let children and adults dive deep into Indian festival traditions and crafts mixed with storytelling and performances.

Festival Shopping with Family Perks

• Best Diwali Shopping Deals in Dubai Malls:
  Shopping hubs like BurJuman, Dubai Mall, and Mall of the Emirates offer attractive Diwali sales with discounts, gold raffles, and even car draws. Families can enjoy special Diwali promotions, festive décor, and themed pop-ups, making it the perfect time for gifts and celebrations.

Family Activities by Venue & Date

Tips for Families

• Arrive early for popular workshops and concerts to secure spots, especially on weekends.

• Combine shopping with cultural activities to create well-rounded festive days for kids and adults alike.

• Dress comfortably and bring essentials for kids—festive crowds can get lively and busy.

For a complete schedule of family events and workshops at Festival Plaza and elsewhere, refer to the Festival Plaza Diwali Schedule.

9. Shop Till You Drop: Diwali 2025 Shopping Festivals & Deals in Dubai

Diwali in Dubai 2025 isn’t just about lights and fireworks — it’s also a time for shopping festivals, exclusive deals, and retail extravaganzas. Dubai’s malls and retail outlets go all out during the Festival of Lights, offering “Spend & Win” raffles, gold promotions, and special Diwali collections across fashion, lifestyle, and jewelry stores.

The Dubai 2025 Retail Calendar officially marks the Diwali slot from October 17–26, making it a prime time for both residents and tourists to enjoy shopping galore. According to The Times of India, here’s a quick comparison of what to expect:

Top Malls for Diwali Shopping in Dubai

1. Dubai Mall – Designer fashion discounts & interactive raffles

2. BurJuman Mall – Lifestyle sales and gold offers

3. Mall of the Emirates – Electronics & festive deals

4. Dubai Festival City Mall – Family-oriented shopping + food pop-ups

5. Gold Souk & Damas Outlets – Exclusive jewelry & Diwali coins
   

The Diwali shopping festival in Dubai ensures that celebrations extend from the streets and stages into the city’s vibrant retail spaces, making it a shopper’s paradise.

(Sources: Gulf News–Gold & Shopping Deals, City Guide Dubai)

Want to explore more shopping hotspots? Check out our Top 10 Shopping Malls in Dubai (2025 Guide) for deals, attractions, and insider tips during Diwali.

10. Feast at Diwali — Food Festivals, Special Menus & Culinary Delights

Diwali in Dubai 2025 is as much a feast for the taste buds as it is for the eyes. Across the city, restaurants, hotels, and food festivals roll out lavish Diwali spreads and buffets, featuring Indian classics such as sweets, mithai, and regional favorites. From North Indian curries to South Indian delicacies, festive menus cater to families and food enthusiasts alike. (Source: Curly Tales)

At Global Village, the Diwali food pavilions transform into a vibrant culinary carnival. Visitors can explore Indian street food from various states, dessert stalls, and specialty sweet shops — a perfect combination of eating festivals and family fun.

Top Diwali Foods to Try in Dubai

• Gulab Jamun – Soft, syrupy sweets

• Laddoo – Festive round treats in multiple flavors

• Mithai assortments – From kaju katli to peda

• Regional snacks – Chaat, samosas, pakoras, and jalebi
  

Dubai’s food festivals and culinary events ensure that every visitor experiences authentic Indian flavors during the Festival of Lights, whether at fine dining restaurants or street-style food stalls.

(Sources: Travels Dubai)

After your Diwali feast, dive into the city’s cultural charm at Souk Al Bahar in Downtown Dubai — where dining meets Dubai’s vibrant Arabian heritage

11. Why Diwali 2025 in Dubai stands out - a comparison with past years & neighboring cities

Diwali in Dubai 2025 is bigger and brighter than ever. Here’s how it compares to previous years and nearby cities:

• Scale of Fireworks: Expanded to five major shows at two iconic locations—Al Seef and Global Village—offering more dates and wider accessibility than earlier years.

• Retail Push: Larger mall tie-ups, extensive gold offers at the Gold Souk and retailers like Damas, and more “Spend & Win” schemes across Dubai’s top shopping destinations.

• Family Inclusivity: Extended programming includes family-friendly events, temple activities, and park celebrations, making Diwali truly inclusive for all ages.

Compared to neighboring cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s Diwali is unmatched in scale and diversity, making it the premier Festival of Lights destination in the region.

This expansion brings an even more vibrant and inclusive celebration, attracting visitors from across the world to witness one of the most dazzling Diwali festivals. (khaleej times)

12. How to Experience Diwali in Dubai 2025 — Tips & Planning

Planning ahead is key to making the most of Diwali in Dubai 2025. Here’s a handy guide for events, family functions, and festivals:

• Best Nights for Fireworks: Check the schedule above — prime nights include Oct 17, 18, 19, 24 & 25 at Al Seef and Global Village for spectacular shows. (Souk Al Seef)

• Where to Stay: Choose hotels near Al Seef, Global Village, or central Dubai for easy access to multiple celebrations. (Trip Ventura)

• Getting Around: Use Dubai Metro or RTA buses, as roads may close near main festival venues. Allow extra travel time for crowds. (Gulf News)

• Book in Advance: Reserve concert tickets, hotel Diwali dinners, and festival passes early to avoid last-minute disappointment. (Holidify)

• Dress & Etiquette: Light, comfortable attire is ideal; follow local customs and maintain decorum during religious events.
  

• Safety Tips: Keep children supervised around fireworks and crowded areas; use designated viewing zones.

If you’d like to add a spiritual touch to your Diwali trip, explore our guide on the Best Indian Temples in Dubai — timings, dress codes, and travel tips to experience the city’s cultural and devotional side

13. Sample 3-5 Day Diwali Itinerary & Highlights

Experience the magic of Diwali in Dubai 2025 with this flexible 3-5 day itinerary that blends cultural festivals, shopping, fireworks, concerts, and family dinners.

• Day 1: Arrive and settle in. Spend your evening at Al Seef’s Noor Festival, enjoying the stunning lights and cultural shows followed by the spectacular opening fireworks at 9 PM.

• Day 2: Head to Global Village for the vibrant mela atmosphere with Indian street food, handicrafts, and cultural concerts. Wrap up the day with dinner at a popular Indian restaurant.

• Day 3: Dedicate your day to shopping at Dubai Mall, BurJuman Mall, and the Gold Souk to catch exclusive Diwali deals. In the evening, attend a concert or a stage show at Festival Plaza or Dubai Opera.

• Optional Day 4–5: Explore local temples and community events, attend more concerts or workshops, and enjoy the final fireworks nights at Global Village or Dubai Creek.

This itinerary balances festivity and flexibility, allowing for late-night Bollywood shows and family functions that make Diwali in Dubai truly special.

14. Conclusion

Diwali 2025 in Dubai promises a spectacular celebration of lights, music, food, and community spirit. From dazzling fireworks shows and lively live concerts to immersive family functions and exciting shopping festivals, Dubai offers an unforgettable festive experience for everyone.

Plan ahead, bookmark the fireworks schedule, and check official event pages to make the most of the festivities.

Subscribe for live updates, explore the VisitDubai calendar as October approaches, and share your Diwali plans with friends and family to make this Festival of Lights truly memorable!

15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Navigating Diwali in Dubai

Where to see the best Diwali fireworks?
The prime spots for fireworks in Dubai during Diwali 2025 are Al Seef on October 17 and Global Village on October 18, 19, 24, and 25, all starting at 9 PM.

Which are the top free events for families?
Noor: Festival of Lights at Al Seef, Global Village’s Diwali Mela, and family nights at BurJuman Mall offer excellent free cultural shows, workshops, and activities suitable for all ages.

Are there ticketed concerts/cultural shows?
Yes, many concerts and cultural performances, such as Ilaiyaraja at Dubai Opera and Andrea Jeremiah at Etisalat Academy, require advance ticket booking. Stand-up comedy and musical storytelling at Festival Plaza also offer ticketed events.

What are the best tips for tourists new to Diwali?
Arrive early for fireworks, use public transport to avoid traffic, dress respectfully (traditional attire encouraged), and book concerts and dinners in advance. Stay hydrated and follow safety instructions during crowded events.

How to get the best shopping deals during Diwali?
Visit Dubai malls like BurJuman, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and the Gold Souk for Diwali promotions, “Spend & Win” raffles, and exclusive festive discounts.