Strong demand is outpacing supply at a faster rate this year than estimated, especially after the UAE’s removal from FATF Grey List
In October or November, depending on the cycle of the moon. In 2017, Diwali starts with Dhanteras on October 17. It concludes on October 21. The main festivities take place on the third day (this year, on October 19). Diwali is celebrated a day early in south India, on October 18.
On Diwali, earthen oil lamps light up the neighbourhood, flickering candles brighten up homes; firecrackers illuminate smoke-filled skies, and an exciting feeling of togetherness with family and loved ones pervades the atmosphere.
The festival of lights is not just enjoyed and feted in the Indian subcontinent. It is celebrated with much fervour across the world. Interestingly, Diwali is an official holiday in a number of countries such as India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mauritius, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Malaysia, Singapore and Fiji.
Carnival-like celebrations in various countries have endeared Diwali to local cultures as well. Other countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, the Netherlands, Canada, the UK, and US celebrate this festival at a grand scale and with great gaiety.
Stores that sell special Diwali items are generally crowded ahead of the festival. The city's prominent Indian designers exhibit extravagant, beautiful Diwali outfits. People throng shops to choose from a wide, colourful range of diyas, jewellery, clothes, candles, sweets, flowers, and wall or door hangings. Al Adil, Puranmal, Choithrams, Madhoor, Lulu Hypermarket, Bikanervala, and Kamat Shireen should tick all the boxes in your Diwali checklist.
City Centre Al Shindagha invites residents and tourists celebrating the festival of lights to have a gala time with plenty of opportunities to win gold, delightful entertainment straight from India and lively cultural activities that adults and kids can join in from October 13 until 22. Here is a list of events
Bhangra dance: Visitors can join the big, colourful dance party with the Bhangra Dance Group ensemble who will take to the mall walkways for 20-minute shows, six times daily. Led by an enthusiastic band, five dancers dressed in sparkling traditional outfits will arrive in a tuk tuk, a three-wheeled vehicle popular in Asian countries, to engage shoppers and create great moments. Dancers will also be distributing multicoloured bangles to visitors during their performance.
Right from chunky bangles, polki earrings and oversized rings, Diwali gives you a number of reasons to dress up! Here is a look at the some of the hottest jewellery trends this festive season that are sure to make a striking statement
Shopping in Dubai? Some dos and don'ts
If you are someone who still has some last minute shopping left, here are some final tips to take into consideration before the celebrations begin. Click here
Days in advance, the restaurant shuts its usual catering service to specialise in sweets and cater to families that celebrate the festival. Go big and go lavish with these colourful, delicious Diwali thalis and treats at local restaurants. Here's the list
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