Diwali 2025 Celebrations in the UAE: Tradition Meets Moderni
As the Festival of Lights unfolded across the UAE, Indian expatriates embraced the spirit of Diwali with vibrant celebrations that highlighted both cultural traditions and modern influences. Families and communities came together to illuminate their homes and hearts, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy and gratitude.
A Personal Touch to Celebrations
For Hitiksha Mehul Shah, Diwali was particularly meaningful this year, marking her 16th anniversary in the UAE. She transformed her apartment and garden into a stunning display of lights and decorations, emphasizing the importance of family involvement in the festivities.
“Decorating our home and lighting it up is a big part of the celebration. My husband and I, along with our nine-year-old twin daughters, did all the decorations ourselves. No event planners, just pure family effort,” Hitiksha shared, highlighting the personal touch that made the occasion special.
The celebrations spanned several days, with gatherings for friends and family on different occasions. “It’s a time to be thankful for what we have and to celebrate life’s blessings. We had around 18 to 20 guests last night, and today I’m celebrating with around 15 relatives,” she added, noting the communal aspect of the festival.
Cultural Showcases in the Workplace
Ajay Mohanlal Ramchandani, an event organizer in Dubai, experienced Diwali in both his professional and personal life. His office became a cultural hub, showcasing the UAE’s diversity.
“We had a full-day office celebration where everyone, not just Indian colleagues, but Emirati and other expat staff too, dressed in traditional attire. The mezzanine floor was transformed with floral décor and rangoli, and we served Indian delicacies along with some Arabic dishes to reflect our diverse team,” he explained.
At home, the festivities continued with traditional rituals. “My wife and sister took the lead in creating beautiful rangoli designs and lighting up both our homes,” he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural practices.
Balancing Work and Tradition
Bhavna Fudani, an HSE manager in Dubai, balanced her work commitments with her religious observance. She celebrated Diwali at her office before visiting the Hindu Temple with her family.
“We usually visit the temple in the morning, but since today was a working day, I celebrated Diwali at the office. In the evening, I went to the temple with my family, and after returning, we continued the celebrations at home. Our entire community is glowing. It is fully lit up with Diwali decorations,” she remarked, reflecting the community spirit that characterizes the festival.
Embracing Diversity and Technology
Laila Al Horani, a Ukrainian-Jordanian creative director, showcased how Diwali transcends cultural boundaries. She celebrated the festival through Ayla, the AI influencer she created.
“Diwali was new to me when I first moved here, and now it’s one of my favorite celebrations,” she said. “This year, I decided to let Ayla celebrate Diwali as well. I love what the festival stands for: the light, the colors, the spirit, and, of course, lots of fun.”
Laila’s approach highlights the blend of tradition and modernity, as she uses technology to connect with the festival’s essence.
A Sustainable Celebration
Shivanee Deshpande took an eco-conscious approach to Diwali, focusing on sustainability while honoring tradition.
“We celebrated Diwali with sustainably made décor and homemade diyas. Diwali has always been special to us. It’s more than just a festival of lights. From cleaning the house to making traditional snacks and decorating every corner, it’s the little things that make it meaningful,” she explained. Her family prioritizes laughter and shared joy over the noise of firecrackers, embodying a more thoughtful celebration.
Corporate Celebrations and Community Outreach
Many companies organized grand Diwali parties for their employees and families. Gagan Gupta, Founder and CEO of Arise Group, hosted around 250 employees and their families for a festive gathering.
“We host this celebration every year for our employees, who are our strength, and for their families who contribute to our success. True to the spirit of Diwali, everyone came dressed in traditional Indian attire. We had a wonderful evening filled with fun, delicious food, and engaging entertainment,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of community within the workplace.
The Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC Dubai) extended the festive spirit beyond traditional circles by distributing Diwali sweet packets to major labor accommodations housing thousands of blue-collar workers.
“Diwali is a festival of light, and at IBPC Dubai, we strive to bring that light to every corner of our community. Through simple acts of kindness, we celebrate not just a festival, but the spirit of humanity that binds us all,” said Siddharth Balachandran, Chairman of IBPC Dubai.
FAQs
How do families in the UAE typically celebrate Diwali?
Families in the UAE celebrate Diwali by decorating their homes with lights and traditional items, preparing festive meals, and gathering with friends and relatives for prayers and celebrations.
What role does community play in Diwali celebrations in the UAE?
Community plays a significant role in Diwali celebrations, with many expatriates coming together to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in cultural events, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.
How are modern influences incorporated into traditional Diwali celebrations?
Modern influences are incorporated through the use of technology, such as social media and AI, as well as sustainable practices that reflect contemporary values while honoring traditional customs.
Conclusion
Diwali 2025 in the UAE showcased a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, with families and communities coming together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. As expatriates embraced the spirit of gratitude and connection, the festival served as a reminder of the importance of community and cultural diversity. Looking ahead, the continued integration of sustainable practices and technology will likely shape future celebrations, ensuring that the essence of Diwali remains vibrant and relevant.
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