Dubai is hosting its biggest ever Diwali celebrations, the Indian festival of lights starting from elephant parade exhibition to a Bollywood-themed laser show and fireworks.
Dubai government officials and Indian missions said last week that the city would see concerts and special gold and jewellery promotions.
People can explore 50 life-sized elephant sculptures from famous artists and celebrities at the Dubai Festival City Mall. The parade exhibition will raise awareness for elephant conversation globally.
An ‘Imagine’ show called ‘Hathi’s Garden’ at the mall will feature a Bollywood theme, huge scale projections, lasers and fireworks. The celebrations will kickstart on October 24 at a number of venues across Dubai, including the Global Village – which opens on October 29 – major shopping malls and retail destinations. Officials said the festival will be celebrated in the “true spirit of the Year of Tolerance”.
Consul-General of India to Dubai Vipul said: “Cultural programmes, fireworks shows, lighting arrangements and food festivals will bring the city alive to the festive fervour of Diwali.
“We are always thankful to the leadership of the UAE for being able to celebrate Diwali in a grand manner in Dubai and other cities. This is the best tradition of the relations between our countries.”
As said by Mohammed Feras Aryaqat, director, retail registrations, retail and strategic alliances at the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), Diwali is one of the most important events in the DFRE’s calendar. “Diwali symbolises the city’s cosmopolitan and multicultural environment. The promotions have been designed to enhance Dubai’s reputation as a leading tourism destination.”
Fireworks to light
up the night
>
Dubai Festival City
October 24
7.45pm and 8pm
> Al Seef
October 27, 8.30 pm
> Pointe, Palm Jumeirah
October 26, 9 pm
Events
to add a sparkle
>
Diwali mela
Al Seef: October 24-28
A one-of-a-kind Diwali fair offering an array of activities including a festive
market, stage performances and kids’ workshops
> Global Village: October 29 onwards
The Indian Pavilion will offer more than 240 stalls
> Flash mob
Pointe, Palm Jumeirah: From October 18-27
A surprise box dance show with dancers and a flash mob
> Hathi’s Garden
Dubai Festival City Mall: October 24
A Bollywood-themed show with lasers and huge scale projections
> The elephant parade
Dubai Festival City Mall: 0ctober 24
The world-famous Elephant Parade exhibition with 50 life-size elephant
sculptures
