Diwali in Abu Dhabi 2025: Gifts, meals, and parties to celebrate the Festival of Lights

Abu Dhabi Review
4 days ago
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

The capital is glowing this October with Diwali celebrations across some of its most exciting dining spots and venues. From festive set menus to street food-inspired melas and late-night Bollywood parties, here’s your round-up of where to mark the Festival of Lights in Abu Dhabi.

Festive Dining

Punjab Grill – The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

A specially curated Diwali menu brings together India’s culinary heritage with contemporary flair. Diners on 20 October will receive a complimentary chef’s dessert, while groups of six or more can join the “Roll Baby Roll” dice game with prizes.

When: 18–26 October 2025
Price: Dishes from AED 45 | Mains from AED 95
Booking: +971 56 402 2080 |
Website: www.punjabgrill.me

Pincode by Kunal Kapur - The Galleria, Al Maryah Island

Chef Kunal Kapur’s playful “Snacky Diwali Menu” recreates the nostalgia of family card nights and snack-sharing with dishes such as Avocado 5 Spice Puchka, Bhutte Ki Kachori, and Mewa Paakh Dryfruit Caramel Tart.

When: 20–22 October 2025
Where: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Price: Dishes from AED 45
Booking: +971 2 234 0111

Zeera by Buddha-Bar - Abu Dhabi

Celebrate with a specially curated 3-course set menu in a lively setting. On opening night (19 October), the atmosphere will be elevated with Indian dance performances and a live singer.

When: 18–22 October 2025, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Where: Zeera by Buddha-Bar, Abu Dhabi
Price: AED 179 per person (includes water)

Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi - Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Martabaan hosts a Diwali Mela complete with lively street food stations and seasonal mains such as Cheese Chilli Crab, Chicken Farcha Roll and Ras Malay Pillow. Handcrafted mithai boxes are also available throughout the month.

When: 21 October 2025, 7:00pm – 11:00pm
Where: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Price: AED 299 (soft beverages) | AED 499 (house beverages) | Mithai boxes AED 150

Festive Treats & Gifts

GODIVA

This Diwali, GODIVA adds a golden touch with limited-edition chocolate boxes and café creations inspired by Indian favourites. Gift boxes include the Diwali Chocolate Chest Box (AED 999), Royal Box (AED 415), Gold Box (AED 249), Napolitain Gift Box (AED 139) and the Ultimate Gift Box (AED 429). At the café, seasonal specials include the Pistachiomis’u (pistachio and rose tiramisu layered with rasgulla, available until 31 October) and the Rasgulla Rose Hot Chocolate (served until 2 December).

When: 6–31 October 2025
Where: GODIVA boutiques in Abu Dhabi
Price: From AED 139 – AED 999

Mister Baker

Adding a colourful twist to the season, Mister Baker is offering a line-up of festive hampers and sweet creations designed for sharing, gifting, or simply treating yourself. Highlights include the Bestseller Picks Hamper (AED 119) with dates and shortbread, the Celebration Feast Hamper (AED 159), the Big Treats Hamper (AED 189), and the indulgent Ultimate Hamper (AED 199) featuring spiced nuts and baklawa. The Rangoli Cake (AED 157.50) is the centrepiece - an edible work of art inspired by traditional rangolis. Available to order online or from stores across Abu Dhabi, these creations make it easy to add sweetness and style to your Diwali table.

When: Throughout October 2025
Where: Mister Baker stores across the UAE, including Abu Dhabi
Price: From AED 119 – AED 199 | Rangoli Cake AED 157.50
Order Online: www.misterbaker.com

Tanishq

Known for its timeless craftsmanship, Tanishq marks Diwali with a festive jewellery collection that reflects optimism and elegance. The designs celebrate the beauty of connection — whether it’s gifting a loved one or choosing a special piece for yourself. Shoppers can explore the collection at Tanishq stores in Abu Dhabi or browse the full range online.

When: Available throughout the festive season
Where: Tanishq stores in Abu Dhabi and online at www.tanishq.ae

Diwali Nights

Bollywood Night – Diwali Bash at Up & Below Kick off the season with a high-energy Diwali party featuring live entertainment, authentic Indian flavours and a Bollywood vibe on the rooftop.