Indian expats celebrate Diwali traditions in Abu Dhabi

Indian expatriates in Abu Dhabi celebrate the Diwali festival by recreating traditional customs in their homes, workplaces, and community spaces.

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi hosts free celebrations from November 6 to 10, while local shopping centers like WTC Abu Dhabi display festive decorations and activities. In schools, children create paper lanterns and handmade decorations, and Indian employees share sweets and festive attire with colleagues of different nationalities.

Residents like Riti Bahel and Vanitha Vinod decorate their private apartments and villas with marigold garlands, fairy lights, and oil lamps called diyas. These residents use local supermarkets and delivery apps to source traditional items, though some find specific flowers like marigolds harder to locate. While some neighbors gather to share homemade sweets and play cards, others focus on creating a domestic atmosphere that mirrors their childhood homes in India.

The expatriates noted that living abroad has changed their perspective on the holiday. Riti Bahel said that being away from India makes her value her family and festive moments more deeply. Vanitha Vinod observed that while space limitations make large community gatherings difficult in the UAE, the country provides a peaceful environment for expatriates to practice their cultural and religious traditions.