Diwali, the Festival of Lights, falls today, and from Abu Dhabi's temple to Dubai's malls and Global Village, the UAE is glowing.

The country's leaders were among the first to send their good wishes. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan wrote on X that he sent best wishes to everyone celebrating in the UAE and around the world, hoping the year ahead brings good health and prosperity to families. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, offered his own warm greetings and wished for a festival of peace, hope and goodness, with days filled with safety, happiness and prosperity.

What Diwali means

Diwali is among the most important festivals in Hinduism and is observed by millions around the world, particularly in India and Nepal. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. The date shifts each year because it is linked to the new moon, the darkest night in the Hindu lunar calendar.

Families traditionally prepare for days. Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli designs and flowers, diyas (small oil lamps) and candles are lit, and relatives and friends gather in their best clothes for prayers, gifts and festive meals. In the UAE, many of those traditions play out in apartments and villas, temples and public spaces, in line with the country's long record of welcoming people of many faiths and backgrounds.

Temple celebrations in Abu Dhabi

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has arranged religious ceremonies and activities from 6 to 10 November as it expects large numbers of visitors. A cultural programme was scheduled for Saturday at 5pm, and a worship service for devotees is set for 6.30pm on Sunday.

Dubai: drones, music and shopping

In Dubai, Global Village is running five days of Diwali events, from 6 to 10 November, with cultural performances, family activities, shopping and entertainment. The highlight is a themed drone show at 8pm tonight, when 600 drones will light the sky above the Stunt Arena and the Syria Pavilion in patterns inspired by the Festival of Lights.

At BurJuman, the "Khushiyon Se Bhari Diwali" programme continues until 12 November. It includes festive workshops, musical baithaks (intimate gatherings with traditional music) and other themed activities. Dubai Parks and Resorts is hosting Diwali festivities at Riverland Dubai from 6 to 8 November, where a Diwali Dhamaka programme offers live music and dance at Royal Plaza, colourful decorations and Indian street food from Yalla Bombay and the Chaat and Chai food trucks.

Gold, sweets and airport festivities

Diwali week is also a major shopping moment. Dhanteras, the day traditionally associated with buying gold, fell on Friday, and Dubai's Gold Souk in Deira was expected to be at its busiest that evening. Many families also exchange sweets and gifts in the days that follow.

Even airports are joining in. Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi is hosting Diwali activities from 7 to 11 November, including a treasure hunt with a gold bar as the prize. Residents can take part without a flight ticket, provided they have an airport visitor pass and a pre-booked entry slot. With the holiday also bringing extra travel, passengers flying out are advised to arrive early.

A festival of many communities

The scale of this year's programme reflects the UAE's large Indian community and the wider tradition of shared celebration. Festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas and Vaisakhi are marked openly in the country, often with participation from friends and neighbours of every background.

This year's celebrations come at a time when regional news has been heavy. For many families, an evening of lamps, music and food offers a welcome pause. Organisers have urged visitors to plan ahead for crowds, particularly at Global Village this evening, where public transport or early arrival will help.

Planning your Diwali evening

Global Village: 600-drone show at 8pm tonight; Diwali programme runs to 10 November.

BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi: worship service at 6.30pm today; activities run to 10 November.

BurJuman: "Khushiyon Se Bhari Diwali" until 12 November.

Riverland Dubai: Diwali festivities until 8 November.

Zayed International Airport: Diwali activities 7 to 11 November, with a visitor pass and booking required.

Wherever you celebrate, the message from the UAE's leadership is the same: peace, health and prosperity to everyone marking the occasion. Happy Diwali.